A visit to Madeira, the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’ wouldn’t be complete without a luxurious stay at The Vine hotel, Madeira’s newest hotspot for lifestyle and design enthusiastic travellers. Recently opened in December 2008, the new Design Hotels member is located in the heart of Funchal, Madeira’s charming capital. The property, which takes its name and inspiration from the famous Madeira Wine, is situated in the heart of the old town. With spectacular views over the city and the marina, highlights include the restaurant UVA, with a three Michelin Star Chef and a Vinotherapy Spa.

The Vine’s tasteful decor and warm atmosphere is the work of award-winning interior designer Nini Andrade Silva. The hotel’s 79 rooms and suites offer the ideal blend of soothing colour palettes with either breathtaking views of the city or the harbour. Social life at the hotel revolves around the lobby lounge offering all-day dining and the popular rooftop open air bar with heated swimming pool.

The 57 rooms and 22 designer and junior suites are divided between five floors. The luxurious amenities include a selection of therapeutic pillows, ranging from organic spelt to natural hay as well as Egyptian cotton bed sheets and towels. Green, grey, purple and brown are the dominating colours of the rooms and public spaces, representing the different shadings of a grape-vine across the four seasons.

The roof terrace is a highlight of the guest experience. It comprises a Jacuzzi, pool, relaxation area, bar and the restaurant UVA, which is set over more than 1000m² with spectacular panoramic views. It’s the ideal place for soaking up the sun or indulging in a glass of Madeira wine at the open air bar.

At the hotel’s gourmet restaurant "UVA“ (Portuguese for "grape“) guests are indulged with culinary highlights and panoramic views of Funchal. Tantalizing creations envisioned by three-star Michelin chef Antoine Westermann combines expertise in French cuisine and places particular emphasis on locally sourced regional produce. A variety of small meals and snacks are available all day in the Terra Lounge in the hotel lobby or at 360°, the rooftop pool bar offering panoramic views of Madeira.
Spa

The Vinotherapy Spa is the right place for guests in search of total relaxation, detox or rejuvenation. Similar in its concept to the rest of the hotel, the spa is also inspired by Madeira Wine. All treatments are based on TheraVine, one of the most prestigious brands of Vinotherapy, using local ingredients and famous grape varieties such as Merlot, Chardonnay and Cabernet. The active ingredients are based on seedless grapes, vine leaves and further integral elements of a vine, which release a regenerative energy and consequently produce a very effective anti-aging remedy. Treatments range from facials through to anti-stress body massages and red wine baths.