Pestana Miramar, Garden & Ocean Hotel in Funchal

We stayed at the Pestana Miramar half board for two weeks at the end of January and the beginning of February 2026. The hotel is in a lovely old building with plenty of trees and greenery around it and we found the location to be perfect for us (close enough to Funchal to walk in but not too close to be noisy). The staff that we dealt with were all very helpful and friendly and the available facilities were good. The meals were in buffet form and there did seem to be a bit of repetition with regards to the vegetables and salads (although we recognise that it’s not easy to cater for such large numbers of people). We did find the room to be rather tired, with cupboard doors loose and mould in the bathroom, although when we raised the mould with housekeeping they did clean it straight away). We have heard that the hotel is due to be refurbished imminently so expect the rooms to be much better afterwards. We did enjoy our holiday and wouldn’t hesitate to stay again (after the refurb)

First, the few downsides: the furniture in the room is perfectly serviceable, but I can see why some reviewers think it's past its best (just don't expect quite the standard - and a bit soulless - furnishings); and I did need to speak to reception about a minor fault in the bathroom, which was sorted out within a few hours. I also mentioned that the fan in the bathroom didn't seem to work, and that wasn't sorted out, though I can see it may well have been a bigger job. On the other hand, it's a really very friendly hotel; special mention must go to Claudia and the team in the Miramar restaurant, and Hasan in the cocktail bar, who really made me feel welcome and at home. Other staff were helpful but never obtrusive - just there when you wanted them. On half board there was the option to eat at the three restaurants at the Pestana Grand - 25 minutes walk or a five minute €2 bus ride away - which all provided good food and service as well. I didn't even try the buffet evening meal as the restaurants were welcoming; the booking system in reception for the restaurants did seem a little restrictive though. The pools and other facilities were clean and in good order. It's again a 25 minute walk or €2 bus ride to the centre of Funchal. Walking straight down the road takes you to the cathedral area; if you follow what initially seems to be a side road on the right just after crossing the bridge a steady hill down takes you to the harbour area instead. Visits to the palace gardens at Monte, a walk on a Levada, a whale/dolphin boat trip, and time spent just wandering round Funchal were all enjoyable.

Lots to love about Pestana Miramar, and why I return again and again. The location is perfect for walking into the centre, but it’s the wonderful peace and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a little bit of island paradise. This year in particular I have enjoyed the range of fitness and activities on offer. It is so much fun to enjoy the energy of Aquagym, the morning Pilates and Yoga in the gardens under the palm trees to set you up for a perfect day. It is like a spa break too. I have felt welcome to enjoy all the program on offer. Abdel and the salsa dancing has been a particular joy to experience. 5 stars!!

My stay at this hotel was very positive. The facilities are well maintained, everything was clean and organised, and the overall atmosphere is pleasant for anyone looking for a calm and comfortable stay. What truly stood out was the service. Nestor and Francisco were exceptional, always attentive, helpful and genuinely friendly. They made a real difference and contributed greatly to making the stay even better. It’s a hotel that’s worth it for both comfort and service quality!!

Had a poncha making experience with Abdel(honey) Absolutely brilliant, very interesting and extremely entertaining. Thank you Abdel for a fun afternoon.

Lovely hotel with lots of facilities for couples and families alike. Staff are great, in particular, Khan on the bar was lovely. He remembered our drinks after a couple of nights and was professional but friendly, making our nightly visits to the bar very enjoyable.

1st time staying at the mirimar needs, we usually stay at the village. The room we had 7412 was lovely with flowers growing around the balcony and over looking the pool. The staff were lovely especially the bar staff to mention a few names Andrea , Phillip, Ivan, zac, & hassan. They all were friendly and welcoming. We used the village winter gardens bar which we hope won’t loose its charm when the village is refurbished. The mirimar cocktail bar is not advertised enough & can be difficult to find . There is a brass plaque that is illegible on the wall at the bottom of the steps leading to it . Once again it is full of old world charm & an ideal to watch the fireworks that happen every June on Funchal harbour. It is quiet and not used enough. The mirimar pool is good , but lacks small tables to put items on . The pool bar is not manned all the time which means taking steps up to the village pool bar. This could be awkward for anyone with mobility issues. I would definitely recommend this hotel . Thanks for a brilliant stay

After spending a wonderful week at the Pestana Village, we moved next door to the Pestana Miramar Hotel for another week, and the experience was just as delightful, albeit with a slightly more modern twist. Both hotels share the same beautifully landscaped resort, but Miramar offers a different, more sophisticated ambiance with a few additional comforts, such as air conditioning, which we appreciated during the warmer days. Dear Margarida, I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the outstanding service you provided during my recent stay at both Pestana Village and Pestana Miramar. Your attention to detail and dedication to ensuring that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience did not go unnoticed. We will return for sure.