Vila Gale Santa Cruz

Portugal , Madeira
SANTA CRUZ, Rua De Sao Fernando, S/N
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100 reviews shown

10/10

Exceptional

09 Mar 2026

Jim

Yes superb

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

20 Feb 2026

Russell

Good sized rooms. Reception was great. Hotel well presented

Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

08 Jan 2026

Jose

We only stayed one night and used the room most of the time as we were tired

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

28 Dec 2025

Peter

Clean, comfortable and quiet rooms.

10/10

Exceptional

09 Nov 2025

Simon

Our experience at Vila Galé Santa Cruz was absolutely outstanding from start to finish. The hotel perfectly combines comfort, elegance, and genuine Portuguese hospitality. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely welcome — friendly, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to make our stay special.

The location couldn’t be better: right on the waterfront with breathtaking ocean views and just a short stroll from the charming town of Santa Cruz. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with lush gardens and a serene atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease.

Our room was spotless, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, with a balcony overlooking the Atlantic — waking up to the sound of the waves was pure bliss. The facilities are excellent: a fantastic outdoor pool, a relaxing spa, and plenty of space to unwind.

The food deserves a special mention. Every meal — from the bountiful breakfast buffet to the evening dinners — was delicious and beautifully presented, with a wonderful selection of local and international dishes. The service team was always professional and genuinely kind.

Vila Galé Santa Cruz manages to be both luxurious and laid-back — ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to truly relax. It’s the kind of place you leave already planning your return.

Highly recommended!

6/10

Pleasant

08 Sep 2025

Christopher

Overall a good stay, property is in a quiet area. Not much to do in Santa Cruz which is nice. I did the half board option and honestly would skip it next time. The food was basic cafeteria food, par at best.

Leisure Self

2/10

Poor

23 Jul 2025

Tarek El

Be aware if you are booking for a family of 4 people. This hotel will charge you for the family room and never provide you such thing. You will get 2 separate rooms and your minor children will be staying alone unless you split up your family one parent with each child. This is what happened to us. I contacted Expedia and they said there is nothing they could do. My advice is book somewhere else that actually provides you the room you paid for and not double book people for maximum profit and leave you to deal with your losses as well as ruin your time with your family by separating you into different rooms. I would give zero stars if that was an option. Also worst ever customer service of my life. I wish Expedia would choose more honest partners, first time having an issue like this, and being told sorry there is nothing we can do.

10/10

Exceptional

27 Jan 2025

Souabeh H

Overall, it was a beautiful property, comfortable quiet, peaceful with a good amenities easy access driving anywhere we recommended

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Jan 2025

Melanie

The property was absolutely lovely. I had no idea there was any renovation going on on the outside until I saw it from my balcony. The workers were extremely quiet. The staff at the front desk offered me a breakfast box since I was leaving early in the morning and accommodated my dietary restriction. My room was upgraded based on my Expedia status. This almost never happens even when I’m eligible for it. If I’m ever back in Madeira, I will definitely be staying here again.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

10 Jan 2025

Susy

We stayed here to be close to the airport. Nice rooms, great breakfast included. Great restaurants within walking distance.
The steam room was amazing.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

12 Nov 2024

Hasan

If you are planning on taking an early morning flight this is probably the best location, just 5 minutes drive from airport.

Breakfast was nice with made to order eggs, coffee, variety of fresh fruits and yogurt.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

08 Nov 2024

Hasan

Staff at the front desk very helpful, lady who checked us in gave us information about the hotel and services. Very friendly and helpful staff.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

29 Oct 2024

cassandra

Property was clean, easy to find, within walking distance to the airport.

It is VERY loud when trying to sleep due to flights overhead.

We splurged and paid for the all inclusive after our flight was cancelled, it was a waste of money. Multiple things were not actually included, and all inclusive received the same treatment as those who were put up by the airlines. It was not worth an additional $159.

Rooms are very dated, carpet on the floors. Indoor and outdoor pools are beautiful. Beach is terrible

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Oct 2024

Susan M

Airport Perfect!

This is our go to hotel when flying out of Madeira Island. Staff is extremely accommodating. Although we left for the airport at 3 AM, we were provided with a boxed breakfasts. It is only about a 10 minute cab ride to the airport and runs around 10 euros. Perfect and convenient.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

30 Sep 2024

Andrew

Superb hotel for short 3 night staybefore going to our timeshare in Funchal. Service fantastic rooms very clean. Overall 5 star

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

28 Aug 2024

Natalie

Great pool area, great food, very relaxing atmosphere

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

24 Feb 2024

Clare

Large, clean facility, close to restaurants and airport. Just a bit noisy.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

22 Feb 2024

Abhay

Very quiet and convenient

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

01 Nov 2023

ALBERTO

Staff need to smile a bit more and breakfast is not up to par. Paid less money at Four Views in Canico, Madeira and their breakfast is superior.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

30 Apr 2023

Michael

Comfortable, but boring

Hotel is super far from anything besides the airport. The breakfast, while included was not good. Better off saving the money and eating in town.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

25 Apr 2023

Alan

Pleasant stay

Only stopped one night as we were flying out to the Azores the following day. Hotel nice, close to the airport (5mins in taxi), Santa Cruz is very pleasant to walk around, nice cafes/restaurants.
The hotel staff are very friendly and helpful.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Mar 2023

Manuel Aveiro

The creek that runs near the building was not clean! It smells at times .
Has nothing to do with the property
I. Want to thank you . I hope to be back soon! I enjoyed
Thank you agian .

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

20 Feb 2023

Leonid

Clean hotel with ocean view, 5 min from the airport

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

31 Oct 2022

Dagmar

Beautiful property near the airport. We had a 5 am departure so we had to leave at 3 am. I recommend this property. Some staff at the front desk was not too friendly.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

24 Oct 2022

Daniel

We booked this due to its proxy to the airport (5 min drive) so was great on that. Overall it's sort of a \"resort-style\" hotel but just didn't hit the mark on actual service. Don't get me wrong, the hotel is nice, the views are great and right on the beach... it's just the beach is all rock and stone so you can't really use it. Then there is the town itself which is one of the smaller towns on the island and while it is cute, there is just nothing to do. There are about half a dozen cafe's type restaurants not much else to do so I would advise staying in Funchal unless you just need to be close to the airport. My main issue was that service felt kind of lacking and the food at the hotel itself was awful. We ordered room service breakfast which arrived at almost lunchtime and was nothing more than dry bread, bad coffee, and warm juice with no cups or mugs to drink said coffee or utensils to cut or spread anything... felt like leftovers from that morning. Then that night we tried the \"Buffett\" and oh lord... for $25 a person you get (and I'm sorry) but really bad cheap buffet food that was so unbelievably not worth it that we each got half a plate and just walked out knowing we did not even want to try anymore. I did not complain because I did not want to be rude and say how disappointing it was. In the end, I got the sense this was more of a local/European little honeymoon spot or something and not much of a business traveler hotel, especially since the WiFi cut out a lot.

Business_and_leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

28 Sep 2022

Stephen

Beautiful, clean hotel. Mean on towels and water.
Planes passed by frequently but not a problem for us,

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

23 Aug 2022

Marrla

Beautiful pool area and view. Wonderful staff, working hard despite a shortage of available staff, the ones that were there were working really hard to make up for it.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

30 Jun 2022

Idriss

There was no room cleaning until we asked them to even then did not do a proper job cleaning .There was no kettle in the room so I asked the room cleaning lady she said No they do not provide in room. I asked in reception the Lady Chris gave me one straightaway. We booked half board the evening meal would not give us water unless we paid we have had HB before that included soft drinks water and tea/coffee very disappointed buffet choice was not great. They told us we must buy a cap when using the swimming pool which I think is unfair they should provide them as I have never come across paying for a swimming cap for men and women its their rules they should provide. The spa facilities have communication problem different staff tells you different things ie booking sauna steam room Jacuzzi towels etc just annoying really. The reception area is just dead and gloomy they put out some kind of refreshing drink there which always looks dirty and staled seem like its been there for days. The shuttle service was good . The staff at check in reception desk need to be more friendly approachable rather than being serious and finish with you as quick as possible. I must say the young Lady at the reception desk who works nights only 19 or 20 years of age was absolutely fantastic always listened helpful very professional she is 10 out of 10 she should be given a medal wishing her all the best in her very bright future she truly deserve. All in all it was ok not great but yeah thanks

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

27 Jun 2022

Christina

Beautiful!

8/10

Excellent

29 May 2022

Karen

Stayed bed and breakfast. Good breakfast, something for everyone. Rooms are clean and comfortable. Tea and coffee making facilities would be a nice touch.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

26 Apr 2022

Martin

Nice Hotel on the beach with great places to walk. Lots of restaurants at walking distance. We would have liked to have a mini-fridge in the room. Super fast internet! (90mb )

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

13 Apr 2022

Gary

Great hotel in a stunning location

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

23 Nov 2021

Verified traveler

Loved it

Beautiful hotel, in perfect location and really friendly staff.
Lots to see nearby to the hotel, and nice and close to the airport for an early flight. Would definitely stay again.

Friends_and_family Friends

8/10

Excellent

09 Sep 2021

Daniel

Good for one night - very close to the airport

Nice hotel, though quite busy with sun-thirsty tourists. Ample choice at breakfast, but I found the products to be of a rather discount supermarket quality.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Aug 2021

Linda

Great way to start your vacation on the island

Great location on the water with a huge pool and easy beach access. Staff was friendly and very accommodating. Close to the airport, which is helpful after a long day of traveling. We had a late afternoon flight and wanted to relax before heading to city center of Funchal. Breakfast had a good variety with an omelette and egg station, fresh fruits, yogurts, cereals, bread/butter, cold cuts, and more. Only minor downside were that the bathroom and some parts of the hotel were a little dated. It's a very nice hotel as long as you don't have some over top expectations and expect The Ritz Carlton.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

16 Aug 2021

Hannah

Bad service, average hotel

The rooms are ok, beds comfy but the service is awful! You There was one person on the bar all day so you would wait at least 10-15 minutes to be served by the pool (also the only bar) The staff were also rude and looked like they didnt want to be there. The photos really make it look nicer than it is. The food is also so gross

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

10 Aug 2021

Matthew

Exemplary

Beautiful hotel, exemplary service

Friends_and_family Family

8/10

Excellent

18 Feb 2021

Jan

No hot water in the shower.

Only cold water ran in the shower.

Business

10/10

Exceptional

16 Dec 2019

Verified traveler

Good Location and good service easy access for other
Attractions a very scenic town Santa Cruz just close by

10/10

Exceptional

07 Nov 2019

Verified traveler

Handy for the airport. Enjoyed watching the planes flying over. Good entertainment most evenings.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Sep 2019

Verified traveler

Although we were told we had a town view, we could actually see the sea when sitting on the balcony - so that was a bonus!!

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

23 Jul 2019

Stefany

Nice hotel

Very nice hotel mattresses just need to be updated

Family

6/10

Pleasant

01 Nov 2018

Farkles

nice hotel, the view was stunning. close to airport and some shops in Santa Cruz. Food wasnt the best, nickel and dime you even at Half Broad. understand alcohol not being included but water. need to put signs in the room stating the price of water in the mini bar. was totally blindsided as far as that was concerned.

8/10

Excellent

01 Apr 2018

Verified traveler

The only drawback of the hotel is its location. It close to the airport.

8/10

Excellent

20 Oct 2017

Verified traveler

Nice hotel

Nice hotel with some noise due to daytime works in progress near the pool. Good free bus service into Funchal which is pre-booked. Restaurant staff excellent (Sandra) and good quality a la carte food.

10/10

Exceptional

14 Oct 2017

Paul

Thank you once again Villa Gale

Well, we have been coming to the Villa Gale for years....
We appreciate Santa Cruz,we appreciate Villa Gale,we love the staff....I am sure we help with a price increase BUT....
In all of the world,when travelling- if you come to Madeira,and decide to rendezvous in Santa Cruz before exploring Madeira or going straight to Funchal then this is the spot to rest,relax,rehabilitate with the pool,sauna etc.... the food in the area is fab,....we love it and look forward to our seaside salt air walks,etc....
Our review is for you, Madeira is a lovely place

Partner

8/10

Excellent

02 Aug 2017

Erica

Room with a view!

Just back from a 10 night stay at this hotel. Do yourself a favour and pay a bit more for a sea view room - ask for 3016 - 3020 (if I remember correctly) or same numbers on fourth floor - views are AMAZING!! Very nice hotel, good room service, nice clean pools and right on the beach (rocky) 10 min walk from a nice water park for the kids too. There is no kids club - would be nice to have more entertainment for the younger generation and more variety of entertainment in the evening. Food was ok - there was a good variety but not really to my taste (would probably please most though) Bed was quite hard and not the most comfortable, but otherwise the room was clean and comfortable. Tip 1: make sure you do the day or half day tours of the island - well worth the money. Tip 2: Quite a good snack menu available from the bar on All inclusive option (toasted sandwiches, salads, french fries etc.- check it out for lunch instead of dining in the restaurant)

8/10

Excellent

17 Jul 2017

will

good quality hotel set in a charming village

4star hotel - spotless - good standards - needs a little updating but that's being done.
Breakfast good and choices great.
Set in Santa Cruz - a little gem of a place with good people, food and culture. The hotel should draw in local businesses to work with guests to enhance their \"village\" experience.
Beautiful place. Would highly recommend the area.

8/10

Excellent

23 Jun 2017

phil

OK for a couple of days, not longer.

Nice enough hotel though seems understaffed, often long queues at reception and an inevitable wait until 2pm before you get your room key. Rooms are pleasant enough though the lack of handy drawer space is a nuisance. The large sliding doors to the wardrobes were very stiff. Lots of banging from room doors as they cannot be closed quietly.
Breakfast is not a relaxed experience, items constantly running-out, staff generally don't look happy to be there. The nearby small village has plenty of cafes and restaurants that offer decent food at good prices. The surrounding area has the impression it was built in hope of mass tourism, that never arrived and many parts of it are falling into decay. Bit sad really.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 May 2017

Becky

Great hotel in the town of Santa Cruz,Madeira

Absolutely loved the hotel the rooms were very nice and spacious and clean. Breakfast is my favorite meal and I could not have been more satisfied.

10/10

Exceptional

09 Apr 2017

Verified traveler

Clean, comfortable and close to the airport

Great hotel located 10 mins (by taxi) from the airport. Clean, comfortable, would definitely stay there again.

6/10

Pleasant

05 Apr 2017

Kate

Room clean and functional but a bit cold, and though view v good it was spoiled by us facing a local dredging operation in afternoon and morning. Staff warm and friendly. Breakfast tricky to negotiate - pretty crowded and no staff to direct. No hot dishes near the hot breakfast buffet. Pool area has yet to develop maturity and our afternoon spoiled by other guests leaving belongings on loungers to 'bag' them but not using them, leaving few for guests who dud wish to use them. Staff need to develop a policy for thus antisocial behaviour?
Santa Cruz quitet, quaint, well connected by local buses to island.

Family

8/10

Excellent

01 Mar 2017

Jean

Large hotel but in a small unspoiled town.

Hotel restaurant is buffet style for a set price. Food good but not excellent. Very nice hotel bar with snack menu by the swimming pool.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

17 Dec 2016

Heather

Excellent hotel.

Staff excellent as were public areas, reception staff were very helpful indeed. The public areas shone and were very festive and luxurious making you feel you were indeed on holiday. The indoor pool was lovely as it was mid December we had it to ourselves. Our room was clean and comfortable even though we were overlooking the car park. As the hotel was only 5% full it might have been prudent to put us overlooking the sea to encourage a return.
We did think that the room decor needed a slight up date with paint scuffed off the walls in places and the carpet looking \"used\" .
Unfortunately the breakfast was not up to standard. The meat on the cold table was of cheap cuts and mostly reconstituted. We were not given a menu the first day but were asked if we wanted an omelette. It was duly ordered as ham and cheese.......the ham was mushy reconstituted and very like spam. The second day we ordered from the menu, crispy bacon, scrambled egg mushrooms and tomatoe. We got an omelette with reconstituted ham, mushrooms and cheese. The breakfast fruit had been left overnight and the pears were going brown and the small individual fruit salads contained suspect grapes and were swimming in juice. Not what should be expected from a 4 star hotel where everything else was so good.

10/10

Exceptional

24 Oct 2016

jose hector esteban

just perfect!!

amazing place to stay, breakfast at 4.15 am for me because i was leaving early great place, hope to stay there again

6/10

Pleasant

14 Aug 2016

Sumeet

Not a 4 Star

So I am leaving this review because I don't think this hotel is a 4 Star hotel.

Check In: We checked in and there wasn't anybody to carry our luggage, I have never been to a 4 Star where this happens.

All Inclusive: When we booked we did not know this was all inclusive. However we were booked a non all inclusive room. Which isn't a big deal but it would have been nice to know. Also the food quality wasn't great and was limited. Also if you want piece there are kids running around all over the place.

Rooms: Rooms were nice and cozy, I recommend the ocean view

Service: Staff was nice but seemed they were extremely understaffed

Pool: Weather was 95 Degrees, pool was probably 60. Really cold, also there was no pool attendants. All the chairs were taken, many by what seems to be locals.

Food: Walk outside to the local restaurants, the food was nothing to write home about

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jun 2016

christine

Exceeded expectations

Excellent facilities, exceptional client service.

8/10

Excellent

15 Jun 2016

cathy

nice clean hotel close to pebble beach

1st time to santa cruz very quiet although informed beginning of June still spring in Maderia weather great place to go if you want quiet relaxing holiday

Partner

8/10

Excellent

11 Jun 2016

Verified traveler

Lovely hotel. We stated all inclusive and the quality of the drinks was very good. The buffet was OK. There was not lots to choose from but what there was, was of good quality. Sparkling wine at breakfast was a nice touch.
The wi fi was good in reception and around the pool area.

Family

8/10

Excellent

25 Feb 2016

Verified traveler

Airport about 8 mins away. Swimming indoors mainly

Good facilities. Good local buses giving access to Funchal town centre.

10/10

Exceptional

22 Aug 2015

Rumman

Best resort to Relax, convenient travel to Funchal

We stayed for 5 nights and had the most relaxing and lovely time. Nice promenade in front and 5 mins drive from airport. Make sure you book free transfer to Funchal at the reception. We loved the hot stone massage. Food was awsome including the daily evetns at the bar e.g. parrot show, live music etc. Pick up a local bus timetable at the reception. 2 mins walk to the local bus stop going to Funchal,Airport and Machico beach. Local buses operates untill midnight (weekend 10:50). Make sure you go to Dolphin watchin (30euros pp, book from Funchal Merina), Porto Moniz (25euro pp picked up from hotel), Cable car to Monte, Monte Palace Garden, Lido promenade, Fortesaojose (best attraction, go downstairs to the rocks to have a splash in the atlantic), eat in Funchal Pingo Doce/La Vile (Like Tesco) and they have amazing selection of food at unbelievable price (costed us 15 euro for 3 person)

8/10

Excellent

21 Aug 2015

Tunde

Beautiful hotel with a nice view of the sea

Good experience throughout. Nice staff and always ready to help

6/10

Pleasant

26 Jul 2015

Soraia

Very nice hotel fantastic views.

I stayed at this hotel with my family and we enjoyed, bit disappointed with the spa out of order

10/10

Exceptional

04 Jul 2015

Paul

Dreamy

Great,Loved it !! We enjoy Santa Cruz....love the sea air, walks, and the Hotel is wonderful.... We look forward to see this little piece of the world again....

Family

10/10

Exceptional

31 Mar 2015

Gillian

Comfortable hotel near the sea and the airport

I chose this hotel because I have had wonderful holidays staying in other Vila Galé hotels and this was no exception. The staff here are friendly, professional, helpful and are impressively accomplished in several languages. Nothing was too much trouble for any of them and I had a relaxing and enjoyable stay. My room was clean, comfy and well equipped, and had a good view of the sea (and the changing weather). The restaurant provided an excellent service and I thoroughly recommend the a la carte option in the evenings. I'm so glad I didn't miss the evening when typical Madeiran food was served, and traditional entertainment laid on.

8/10

Excellent

07 Jan 2015

Derek

Pleasant hotel

Although close to the airport, it was a little too far from Funchal with little to do in Santa Cruz. A taxi ride to the capital was 30-40 Euros each way depending on the speed and the traffic. Probably better staying there in summer when it is possible to use the lovely outdoor pool.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

29 Oct 2014

Verified traveler

Fabulous hotel in quiet Santa Cruz .

Brilliant staff, location. Quiet small town setting overlooking the pool and sea. The only noise was from the occasional aircraft landing and taking off - 5 minutes from the airport. Wonderfully calm atmosphere - staff could not be anymore attentive and caring. Fabulous breakfast choices and an equally impressive and cheap evening meal choice. Plan to go again.

10/10

Exceptional

12 Oct 2014

Kevin

Great Holiday Experience

We had a wonderful holiday in Madeira staying at the Hotel Vila Gale. The hotel has excellent facilities, great food & wine & brilliant staff who are extremely friendly & do everything they can to make you stay an enjoyable one.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

30 Jul 2014

Urszula

Very nice hotel near to the beach

Very comfortable hotel with a nice staff. Tasty breakfasts, clean swimming-pool, fine animations.

8/10

Excellent

13 Jul 2014

JPR

Hope to return !!

We quite enjoyed our stay at this Hotel- The location in Santa Cruz is fantastic...sea air, ocean walks, pool side views of the sea... enjoyable to walk about as well in Santa Cruz. It is certainly a relaxing option over busy Funchal. The amenities were fabulous. We loved both indoor and outdoor pools. The brunch was served in a large airy room with good variety. We do hope to return....

8/10

Excellent

25 Apr 2014

Sharon

Lovely quiet position on seafront

Lovely situation for relaxing break but not a lot in Santa Cruz! However, can thoroughly recommend restaurant just along the prom next to hotel which served delicious local dishes served by friendly staff. If you can't get on one of the hotel shuttles, local public transport is very easy to get into Funchal and a good way to see so,e of the island. Yellow & Blue line buses good value & informative. In Funchal we enjoyed several visits sitting outside or on balcony for coffee, lunch, afternoon tea & evening meal to the lovely Ritz which overlooks the beautiful gardens and has great easy listening live music outside!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Mar 2014

Susan

The Favorite on Madeira

This is our favorite hotel on the island which we stay at annually. This visit there was a bit of a mix-up with our airport shuttle at 4:00AM!! The clerk had failed to schedule it for us. Much to our surprise, we were driven to the airport, on time, by a kitchen staff member. Everything to love about this hotel.

10/10

Exceptional

12 Feb 2014

jmuttram

Excellent hotel

Great hotel very close to the airport which is a plus (€4 taxi) and a minus (planes overhead) but actually not distracting at all in the event. Plenty of choice of food and very friendly, helpful staff.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

03 Feb 2014

Verified traveler

Great place to stay, close to airport, cute town!

We arrived late, around 2a, after a stay elsewhere fell through. Staff was understanding and accommodating, breakfast was fantastic, and the amenities are great. I would have appreciated wood flooring in the rooms because the carpet was a bit dated, but this is a minor annoyance when you have a sea view and can hear the ocean waves from the room. Recommended.

2/10

Poor

23 Dec 2013

Tony

Only for Modern Jazz Devotees

Modern Jazz was played Incessantly in the public areas. Room smely musty on arrival. The bathroom never lost this odour throughout our stay. Both left with backache after 7 nights on the hardest beds I have slept on in a hotel. No choice of food in the restuarant - it was buffet or nothing, otherwise you had to eat in a bar. Service in the pool bar was very poor - some people gave up waiting for the waiter to appear due to lack of staff. Had to chase reception a number of times to get towels in the room replaced - room staff would take used towels but not replace them.Only the outdoor pool was free to use - had to pay for the Gym, Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi - this is not identified in the description of the hotel.

This hotel group is definitely focussed on maximising profit to the detriment of service levels.

4/10

Poor

29 Oct 2013

Madeira fan

Unimpressive and bland

We are frequent visitors to Madeira which we find is an island of delights. This hotel was not a delight. We were expecting better from a new 4 star hotel. It seemed to be geared to the mass tourist all-inclusive market and so the food was very bland and all about quantity rather than quality. We ate in the town on the nights following our first night at the hotel lukewarm buffet. The ambience in the square was lovely, and the food was good, freshly-cooked and cheap. Much better than the unappetising mush in the clatter of the hotel canteen, sorry \"restaurant\". The staff seemed rushed and very different from the smiley helpful madeirans we usually encounter. We shall not be returning.

Family

6/10

Pleasant

24 Aug 2013

Verified traveler

adeequate hotel - not the best for families

We went to this hotel for our summer holiday. The kids club was a real disappointment as it was just a room with a few coloured mats with no activities, supervision or toys. The hotel was very busy which tainted our experience - the staff seem to struggle to cope. On the plus side the rooms are nice and the food was good

Family

10/10

Exceptional

08 Aug 2013

Urszula

Very nice hotel close to the ocean .

We stayed in this hotel two weeks in july 2013. We spent there a very nice time. The hotel is situated close to the ocean, 20 meters from shingle beach. The view from swimming-pool is streight to the ocean.
The hotel is clean, rooms are cleaned everyday. Staff is very helpful and friendly.
Breakfasts are tasty and varied.
The hotel provides transport to Funchal couple times a day.

10/10

Exceptional

17 Jul 2013

Alison

Great hotel close to airport

We stayed here for one night before we flew out from Madeira. Hotel is perfectly located for flights, just a 5 minute drive from the airport. Clean rooms, a good pool and we even got breakfast delivered to our room at 04:15 before the flight. Good service and good value.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

23 Apr 2013

Sarah and Simon

Suitable for all ages and families and business.

Although the hotel is near the flight path of the airport, this didn't put us off with the noise as they flew in during the day time and the sea was so close that the waves were in the background.
The only gripe we had was that the gym was added on with the spa and to access the gym it cost 11 euros a day/session so we were not informed of this beforehand and this was too higher price with poor facilities for the cost.
If you booked a spa day the gym and pool access were included for 12 hours access.
This was obviously run by a different company and an add on to the hotel.
The hotel swimming pool although cold and a shock to initially get use to was bearable if the sun was shining and above 23 degrees for sunbathing.
The cost of the meals at the hotel were twice to three times as much as eating out at a local taverna.
All inclusive with First choice/Thompson including meals and drinks cost the same as Expedia with B&B; so its a choice you need to realise before yo go.

10/10

Exceptional

02 Mar 2013

Susan

A Must Do Hotel

Conveniently located near the airport, the hotel offers shuttle service for 6 euro for up to 4 persons - great deal, cheaper than a taxi. The staff was very friendly and service oriented. The included breakfast was wonderful and included omlets to order, selection of meats & cheeses, cereals, breads and of course coffee and teas. The room was spacious for a european hotel, plenty of hot water with a large showerhead! The room also included free internet and cable tv. They do offer an ocean view which is amazing but we had the mountain view which was fabulous. The hotels has beautiful outdoor pools which during the season we would use. Being located right on seafront, this hotel hits all of the boxes. We travel through Madeira annually and we will use this hotel from this point on.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

01 Nov 2012

Johanne

great hotel to relax and chill

This is the 2nd time I have visited this hotel and would recommend it to anyone visiting Madeira. The hotel and rooms are spotless and everywhere is immaculately maintained. The staff are attentive and friendly. We stayed on bed and breakfast basis and the breakfast was extensive. The free hotel mini bus offered easy access to Funchal and the bus services are superb.

8/10

Excellent

03 May 2012

scott

Madeira hotel was very nice

Staff and hotel was very nice. Buffet was great.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

03 May 2012

scott

very nice hotel and staff

Everything was great about this hotel. gave 4’s across the board because 5 is the best. Breakfast buffet was great.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Mar 2012

Verified traveler

A very pleasant hotel.

This is a very friendly, comfortable and pleasantly situated hotel. We had a room with balcony overlooking the sea - it was lovely to fall asleep while listening to the waves coming into the shore.

10/10

Exceptional

08 Oct 2011

Margaret

only 3 night stay but great Villa Gale

We enjoyed our stay at Villa Gale Hotel. We asked for, and got a room overlooking sea with views of aircraft landing. The staff at reception were very helpful and the breakfast buffet wasoutstanding.
We did not have full board but found a very good
restaurant in the square nearby with excellent food and much cheaper than any restaurant in Funchal.
However, we did not hear any complaint from the
majority of customers with full board and on looking round we would have had no complaints either, and the continual hot and cold drinks
would have been a boon. Santa Cruz is a pleasant little town,lots of nice walks. We would love to use this hotel again as we go to Madeira every year.

10/10

Exceptional

25 Feb 2011

Lukasz

Really good hotel with nice facilities!!!

Great location, staff super friendly! Would definitely come back!!!

10/10

Exceptional

27 Oct 2010

Verified traveler

Spotlessly clean hotel,helpful and friendly staff.Excellent position,nice village,

10/10

Exceptional

30 Jun 2010

Verified traveler

Lovely hotel

Great location very close to the airport, on the seafront, in the town centre.

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jun 2010

John

Second visit to this hotel

The Vila Gale hotel was just as good as our first visit last year. Everything was spot on, very helpful reception staff. Couldn't fault anything really, other than this year there was a lot of putting towels on the sunbeds by the pool by Germans and French to reserve them. Lots of nice friendly restaurants nearby and lovely views from our balcony.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

15 May 2010

Eileen

A piece of luck

This holiday seemed doomed. First there was the February flood, so we re-booked from Funchal to Sanata Cruz, then all airports in UK were closed due to volcanic ash. The new location actually suited us much better. Santa Cruz is a lovely quiet village and the Vila Gale is the only hotel there. There are plenty of local buses to Funchal as well as a hotel coutesy bus four times a day.
The rooms are comfortable although the pillows are hard. Breakfast is better than the average buffet as you can order fried eggs or omelettes.
The hotel now has some evening entertainment and we were lucky enough to hear some classical music being hosted in the hotel.
Lovely walks along the sea front and lots of cafes to rest and have a drink.
I would go back to this hotel for a short break.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

14 Apr 2010

Cecil

One of the best

As a very seasoned traveler, and having stayed in hotels all over the world in differing star ratings, this is one of my most enjoyeable stays, if not THE most enjoyeable hotels. Attentive and helpful staff, great free buffet breakfast as well as great lunches and dinner. Away from Funchal (expensive cabs) but hotel shuttle and regional busses will get you there. Clean , comfortable rooms, had a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. Felt the internet was excessive but not enough to detract from the overall great stay.

8/10

Excellent

12 Apr 2010

Sue

Long weekend

Chose to go to Madeira for a long weekend over Easter. The hotel was very clean and the staff very helpful. However, Santa Cruz is about 12 miles form the main town and there was very little to do over the Easter weekend.
Was surprised that I had to pay so many extras e.g. the spa. As it was windy outside, many of the children staying used the pool in the spa which was great for them, but not quite the relaxing time I had hoped for.
The hotel provides a shuttle bus 4 times a day to Funchal - you need to book in advance. The public bus stop was close by.

6/10

Pleasant

06 Jan 2010

julie

for a quiet holiday

nice hotel but paying for 'extras' is not acceptable
internet at E20 a day - i dont think so
pool was not heated indoor pool had to be paid for
breakfast was good but the same everyday which gets boring
local patiseries sold lovely cheap food and all spoke english
the local supermarket was good with a great cafe upstairs with a takeaway service
local bars were ok too
hotel minibus into funchal was useful if you book in advance
nothing much going on in the hotel in the evening just a bar....

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Nov 2009

Nigel

Very Impressed - we would return

Room was comfortable. Staff were obliging and friendly. It has been said before in other reviews that the hotel is near to the airport but don't let this put you off because it really is no bother. The hotel is on the shoreline and is peaceful. We found it to be a most relaxing experience and would recommend this hotel.

10/10

Exceptional

04 Nov 2009

Sharon and Paul

Beyond Expectations

This was the second time we had been to this hotel and it just keeps exeeding our expectations.
The hotel, the staff, the location, the amenities are excellent.
I almost fear saying this as they may not have vacancies for us next year!

8/10

Excellent

29 Oct 2009

Norbert

Good, quite and relaxing stay

Good, quite, modern and relaxing ... meeting our expectation

8/10

Excellent

17 Oct 2009

Nigel

Good hotel, indifferent service

The hotel is situated in the beautiful little village of Santa Cruz & offers great views of the bay. Stayed for a long weekend, the amenities are good, the restaurant is expensive, you get better value (and quality in some cases) in the village. Had to ask twice in 4 nights to have used towels replaced, & the TV service didn't work for the last 3 nights of 4 despite assurances it would be repaired. Overall the quality & location of the hotel out weigh the service glitches.

10/10

Exceptional

25 Aug 2009

Kristyna

Villa Galle

The hotel was very nice, lovely staff people are so kind and so friendly. At the reception will help you with any request, food was very nice and l definitely can recommend this hotel to everyone. You will have great time on your holiday in beautiful place.

6/10

Pleasant

19 Aug 2009

Bill

Not our type of hotel

Hotel is very good if you want basic hotel room without frills. No choice of evening meal it was buffet or nothing. Breakfast was average. Show cooking was good but only available if you did not want/need an early breakfast.