Old buildings converted into hotels while preserving historical and architectural value
Offer a glimpse into the past and allow guests to experience local history and culture
Why stay at a heritage hotel?
Quinta da Serra Bio Hotel
19th Century
With a strong commitment to authenticity and the preservation of history and biodiversity, the hotel invites you to discover this captivating facet of the island’s identity. Experience the allure of Quinta da Serra Bio Hotel and embrace a harmonious blend of comfort, tranquility, and environmental responsibility.
In the captivating woodland heritage at Quinta da Serra Bio Hotel, you’ll encounter magnificent and monumental trees. A rich history that dates back to the 19th century when the estate was commissioned by British Consul Henry Veitch. While exploring the estate, you’ll come across various historical monuments, including the iconic “Mother House.”
Among the twelve remarkable trees in the municipality of Câmara de Lobos, eight belong to Quinta da Serra. These ancient trees, estimated to be at least 200 years old, stand as living testaments to the harmony between nature and human preservation.
The Hotel's Legends
In the 19th century, in Jardim da Serra, Madeira Island, Sir Henry Veitch, the founder of Quinta da Serra, hosted mysterious meetings attended by influential figures, including Napoleon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine. Napoleon, on his way to exile, stayed briefly in Madeira and visited Veitch’s estate. Legend has it that Veitch used his influence to secretly accommodate Napoleon and Josephine in the estate’s legendary gardens. They were treated as honored guests, and Veitch even offered his services to Napoleon. In gratitude, Napoleon gave Veitch a pair of golden gloves, which were later placed on the foundation stone of an Anglican Church in Funchal.
A Scottish nobleman, appointed as British Consul of Madeira, fell in love with a picturesque location on the island. He built a pink mansion near a waterfall in this enchanting spot. During the construction, he noticed a young woman carrying a unique perfume from a eucalyptus plant. They fell in love and married in secret, but the consul had to leave for England, promising to return. However, he never did. For thirteen years, the young woman waited, her tears watering the eucalyptus tree, which stopped growing. Then, one day, the consul returned on horseback, and the tree began to grow again. Legend says that embracing the tree at Quinta da Serra brings eternal love.
Legend tells of an island inhabited by mystical creatures, where a fierce battle unfolded between two beasts who sought to control water, one of the four elements. Their greed cursed the fish in the area, turning them into black, red, and bi-colored hybrids, representing darkness. The battle raged for seven days and nights, unleashing chaos and wrath upon the world. Consul Henry Veitch arrived on the island and confronted the exhausted beasts, negotiating a truce on the eighth day. Determined to end the creatures’ reign, the consul constructed a symmetrical lake in the midst of the battlefield. Decorative tiles symbolizing the days and nights of the battle adorned the lake’s sides, with lush trees and gardens concealing the devastation caused. A levada, dividing the water evenly, represented the reconciliation between the mystical creatures. However, as the island’s population grew and water became scarce, the lake was tampered with, and the historic tiles were violently destroyed, serving as a warning from the ancient creatures to mankind.
Quintinha de São João Hotel
As one of the remaining examples of the typical Madeiran Quintas, Quintinha de São João has a profound connection to the history of Madeira. Over time, the Quinta has witnessed various transformations, ultimately evolving into a small and enchanting five-star hotel with 42 rooms. Affectionately known as the “Quintinha,” it carries an authentic and rich essence that can be felt while exploring its gardens and every nook and cranny of the hotel.
Originally, the expansive Quinta was divided into various plots, one of which became Quintinha de São João. Recognizing the untapped potential of this unused area, the current owner, José Barreto, embarked on the journey to create Quintinha de São João, capturing the true ambiance of the historic Madeiran residences.
Stepping foot into Quintinha de São João means immersing oneself in the captivating heritage and history of Madeira, where each corner tells a story and the embrace of tradition is felt throughout.
Sé Boutique Hotel
Within minutes, guests can explore the historic area of Funchal, immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Mercado dos Lavradores, ascend the Cable Car for breathtaking views, or embark on a leisurely stroll along the picturesque marina.
Guests can savor delectable cuisine at the on-site restaurants or unwind at the Terrace Bar, offering seductive 360º views of Funchal, encompassing the majestic mountains and the azure sea. Adding to its charm, the hotel showcases a remarkable collection of private artwork throughout its premises, adding an extra layer of intrigue and fascination.
