Saccharum Resort & Spa, Calheta, Madeira, Portugal

Madeira is a lush, mountainous Portuguese island situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It has earned the title of "World's Leading Island Destination" nine consecutive times in the World Travel Awards. Each year, millions of tourists flock to the island, captivated by its stunning landscapes, extensive hiking trails that span over 2,000 kilometers along the irrigation channels (known as levadas), and its mild, pleasant climate. During summer, the island enjoys an average temperature of around 25°C.

Believing that the best way to experience Madeira was from a seaside resort — of which there are many — I chose to stay at the five-star Saccharum Resort & Spa in Calheta, approximately 35 kilometers from Funchal, the capital. My goal was to escape the busy tourist spots and fully immerse myself in Madeira's diverse natural beauty. The resort is ideally located on the island’s sunny southwest coast, nestled between the sea and mountains. I eagerly anticipated days spent exploring the island, hiking along the levadas through misty clouds, tunnels, and waterfalls, and relaxing in the evenings at the marina’s fish restaurants.

The Saccharum Resort & Spa

The Saccharum Resort is part of the Savoy Signature Hotels and Resorts group, and what truly sets it apart is its striking architectural design. Its brutalist façade and wildflower-covered roof are unusual features for Madeira. The resort’s design was crafted by RH+ Architecture Studio, with celebrated interior designer Nini Andrade Silva drawing inspiration from its past as a sugar cane factory. In fact, the name ‘Saccharum’ comes from the Latin word for sugar cane, paying homage to this historical connection.

As I stepped into the hotel’s expansive reception area, I immediately noticed how the interior design effortlessly blends nature and history. The calm color palette, featuring light greens, browns, and beiges, creates a soothing atmosphere, while industrial accents, like decorative machine parts, add a nod to the building's industrial heritage. The warm and polite customer service made check-in swift, and we were quickly guided to our room.

My Side Ocean Room

All 243 contemporary rooms at the resort are ambiently lit and decorated in earthy tones. Our room, a spacious 32 m², featured a side ocean view and a lovely balcony. The double bed was exceptionally comfortable, and the private bathroom was stylishly separated from the rest of the room by dark glass. While this design choice may not appeal to everyone, it offered us enough privacy. The room instantly made me feel relaxed and at ease, and I felt fortunate to be able to enjoy the comfort of this resort for a full week.

Amenities in Saccharum Resort

The breakfast buffet at Engenho Restaurant was one of the best I’ve ever had. It offered a wide selection of pastries, fresh fruits, juices, vegetables, hot dishes, and an omelet station. I was particularly impressed by the daily varying options. Enjoying breakfast on the terrace was a real pleasure, and the customer service was always kind and attentive.

The resort offered a wide range of activities, including a squash court, chef’s garden, scenic viewing point, and a games room with ping pong. It also featured five bars, a yoga deck, live music, and perhaps Madeira’s most-photographed infinity pool. In total, there are four pools (two of which are reserved for guests over 16). Some areas, like a sun deck with a jacuzzi and exclusive loungers, are not included in the standard room price unless you upgrade to the Savoy Premium Experience.

The gym was well-equipped with Technogym equipment and open to all guests at no extra charge. I particularly enjoyed my workout, as the large windows offered stunning views of the sea and the lush greenery outside. In contrast, the spa and treatments came with an additional fee, though the selection of massages — including the option for a massage on the terrace — was very appealing.

The resort’s award-winning spa featured a sauna, Turkish bath, jacuzzi, ice fountain, sensory showers, a halotherapy room, relaxation areas, and a heated indoor pool. The fee provided all-day access to these amenities, making for a truly relaxing experience, though we would have appreciated direct beach access. The spa was exclusively available to guests over 16, ensuring a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

The hotel boasts three inviting restaurants. Engenho offers an extensive buffet for breakfast and dinner, while Alambique serves an à la carte menu featuring the flavors of Madeira. Trapiche provides a more relaxed dining experience outdoors on the terrace, with a simpler, less experimental menu. We dined at both Engenho and Trapiche and thoroughly enjoyed the food at each.

However, our favorite dining experience was at the Calhau Beach Club, where they served fantastic tacos, quesadillas, pita bread, nachos, and grilled dishes on select evenings. It was the perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy drinks while watching the waves.

In Conclusion

The island’s charm, warm weather, and diverse landscapes completely won me over! The Saccharum Resort & Spa is an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize tranquility and sustainability, especially if they have access to a car. It’s the perfect base for exploring the island. However, if you’re more interested in nightlife, staying in Funchal might be a better fit. For us, Saccharum was the ideal sanctuary, meeting all our needs even without a car, as the hotel offered a great selection of organized tours and hikes. I have a feeling that, like many others, I’ll keep returning to this magical island.