Escarpa - the Madeira Hideaway

If I could give this place 4.85 out of 5 I would! I want to start with the positives: First, it’s one of the best views in Madeira, and that’s saying something. It’s impossible to quantify how cool walking up every day to a view of the cliffs and the Atlantic is. Second, the staff is first class. Petra and her team make you feel like a valued guest. The breakfast they prepare each morning is fresh and delicious. The honesty bar is a huge plus, too, considering the closest market is 10 minutes away. Third, it’s a great location. It is remote, and I wouldn’t recommend staying here without a car. However, it’s only 10 minutes from Ponto do Sol and 30 from Funchal. Now, the “negatives” (in reality, I’d call them caveats). -You can only access Escarpa by climbing a flight of stairs and a steep ramp up from the parking lot. I am not an out of shape person, I run most days, this was an even a struggle for me and something to note for folks with different abilities. -There was no AC, and there’s no ceiling fan. We visited before the peak of summer so we dealt with it, but I wouldn’t stay in July or August unless you can get a room with AC. -It’s intimate-ish. You have your own room, but it’s kinda small and since there’s no AC, you need the windows open so nothing is private. I still would recommend this place wholeheartedly, just feel the caveats are necessary.

How do you rate a piece of paradise? Well I will have a go Escarpa is one very special place run by an amazing Petra and her team Our room 7 had views to die for , we could lie in bed and watch the sun rise or sit on our balcony with a bottle of wine watch the sun set The room was stunning with huge bed, wonderful bedding ,dressing gowns . A small kitchen if you wanted to whip up a simple lunch .Everything has been thought out to ensure a perfect stay The pool was just awesome and we would watch the little boats sail past while in the pool. The chairs and spitting areas again are special Finally the breakfasts WOW so different having tapas breakfasts We will be back

Possibly the loveliest hotel I’ve stayed at! If you are looking for peace, tranquility and privacy - this is the right hotel for you. The views are spectacular and all you can hear from your balcony or your bed, is the sound of the ocean. I booked this short break as a 50th birthday gift for my husband and I wanted it to be a little special and Escarpa is exactly that. The rooms have a little kitchenette area which is great for coffee & a snack on the balcony or if you want to bring some lunch back to your room. The location is great for the levadas Moinho & Novo and is a short (20 minute) taxi ride into Funchal. Petra is a delightful hostess and her staff are friendly, welcoming and yet unobtrusive. I would love to come back again one day. It has been a much needed few days of pure relaxation. If you are hesitating, wondering whether to book in Funchal, I can only say “Book this hotel quickly!”.

Exceptionally high standard boutique hotel with stunning views over the Atlantic. We were very well looked after and everywhere was spotlessly clean. Rooms were very comfortable with good facilities and luxury touches. Would thorough recommend.

This report may be written rather late, but I still believe that I owe it to Madame Petra and her staff to praise this fabulous resort and all the staff. It was mid May 2022 and I succeeded to complete the Pico Ruivo hike along with my travelling mate. We stayed 4 nights in Funchal to be near the major city attractions and to undertake the hike. With the strenuous hike behind, now it was time pick up a rental car and to drive to Ponta do Sol to spent 4 nights at Escarpa. Up until then I did not stay in a more calm and sophisticated resort. Being from the 'old school', I do appreciate the calmness and no adults only policy. The highlights: the infinite pool and the restaurant, not to forget the daily breakfast served personally by the owner Madame Petra. I hope to return before long.