Boasting dramatic coastlines, lush landscapes and sub-tropical gardens the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira is less than four hours from the UK and makes for a fantastically easy weekend getaway. Once considered a destination for mature travelers only, the island has been quietly reinventing itself with stylish modern resorts that are drawing a new, younger crowd. Located in the municipality of Calheta, the five-star Savoy Saccharum Hotel Resort & Spa is a perfect example.
In a nod to the island’s former sugar industry, Saccharum––which comes from the Latin word for sugar cane––occupies the site of an old sugar cane mill. Designed by RH+ architecture studio, acclaimed local interior designer Nini Andrade Silva, contrasted heritage touch points, including original alembic metalwork from the mill, with her trademark darkly lit spaces.
Built in deconstructed concrete slabs, the hotel’s façade resembles agricultural terraces that can be seen across the island, creating an aesthetically pleasing contrast between the surrounding mountains and Atlantic Ocean. The end result is a modern space that feels sharp and sophisticated, yet surprisingly warm and inviting.
CHECK-IN EXPERIENCE
Arrive in style with a fully customizable Premium Experience check-in package and add that little extra touch of luxury to the holiday. Starting at 60 Euros, selections include everything from yoga and Tai Chi classes, unlimited spa and premium sun deck access, to private premium breakfasts and unlimited international calls. You’ll be guided to a private concierge desk upon arrival to enjoy a welcome drink during the formalities before being shown to your suite.
SUITE SEA VIEW
Suitably chic and decorated to a luxurious standard – think dark woods, smoked glass and plenty of mood lighting – the Savoy Saccharum has 180 rooms and five suites. In the spacious Deluxe Sea View Suites expect floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies that are perfect for lingering over coffee in the mornings.
Bathrooms are sleek with high-end fixtures, soaking tubs and slate tray basins – body conscious types should be aware that the walk-in showers are somewhat open-concept. The Prija amenities are plant-based and paraben free – the Savoy branded robes and slippers are happily worn by a majority of guests around the property. When booking a Superior Suite, spa and gym access is included, however everyone can enjoy access to spa facilities when reserving a massage or treatment.
SACCHARUM SPA
In keeping with the rest of the property, fitness and leisure facilities are suitably luxurious. The namesake spa carries British skincare brand Ila with treatments ranging from chakra balancing and massages to facials and pedicures – the Pearl and Jasmine Scrub with Amethyst Wrap is divine; couples will love the Rose Bliss Bath.
There are only four treatment and massage rooms so booking services prior to arrival is highly advised. Massage center and spa aside, for additional serenity head further downstairs and you’ll find an indoor pool and relaxation area with sensory showers, whirlpool, sauna, Turkish bath, ice fountain (for the brave), and Halotherapy (salt therapy) room. There are two gorgeous outdoor pools, but the hotel’s photogenic infinity pool is the place to soak up that morning or afternoon sun.
DRINKING & DINING
There are three restaurants and five bars across the property, including Calhau Bar on the private beach in front of the hotel. You’ll find the Rhum Bar adjacent to the elevators in the lobby and Engenho Restaurant on the first floor, which does a superb daily breakfast and dinner buffet. Neighboring the 8th floor infinity pool is Trapiche Bar which serves small plates and lighter fare until 6:30 p.m.
Head to Fly Lounge for picture postcard sunsets during happy hour at 5:30 p.m. and live music from 8:30 p.m. each evening. And, specializing in regional fare with signature dishes such as Black Scabbard filet and passion fruit wrapped in banana leaves, be sure to make at least one dinner reservation at swanky signature restaurant, Alambique.
LOCATION
The hotel operates a daily bus to and from Funchal but if you’d rather stay local, Calheta Village and Marina is a short stroll down Avenida D. Manuel 1 and the striking Casa das Mudas Contemporary Arts Museum complex is perched on a clifftop just above the hotel. The municipality of Ponto do Sol (meaning “Sunny Point”) is an easy 12-minute drive down the coast – stop by Maré Alta Bar – Restaurante for traditional Madeiran dishes and fresh local fish.
THE SNAPSHOT
For a weekend retreat on a secluded part of the island that’s spent in a fluffy white robe and Savoy branded slippers – and where the toughest decisions will be which spa treatment or sun lounger to choose – the Savoy Saccharum is one of the best boutique options on Madeira. Although travelers should mark their calendars for June when the dazzling Savoy Palace (another RH+ architecture studio and Nini Andrade Silva collaboration) is slated to open in Funchal.
GETTING THERE & AWAY
Several major carriers, including British Airways and easyJet, operate direct flights to Funchal. The Savoy Saccharum is located on the southwest side of the island and the journey from the airport takes about 40-minutes – concierges are happy to arrange a private taxi (55 Euros) or their exclusive Savoy BMW Limousine Service (150 Euros each way).
Book your stay at the Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa here.
Keri Bridgwater is a freelance writer based in San Diego, California. Her bylines have featured in the London Evening Standard and Roam Magazine, among other international outlets. She covers travel, lifestyle, culture, art and design related stories for AGLAIA Magazine. Follow her on Instagram
