Quinta da Casa Branca, celebrating its 10th anniversary, is recognised by two Trip Advisor awards and introduces new packages and spa treatments
5* Quinta da Casa Branca has begun 2008 by being awarded twice in Trip Advisor’s ‘Travellers Choice Awards 2008’. The hotel has been voted the 36th best luxury hotel in the world, making it the highest ranking in Madeira and placing it above other top establishments such as Banyan Tree Maldives, the Peninsular Hong Kong and Park Hyatt Tokyo. In addition, Quinta da Casa Branca has ranked 7th in the top ten list of best service hotels in Europe where it featured as the only Portuguese hotel.
Quinta da Casa Branca is delighted with the recommendations, since the Trip Advisor awards are considered to represent the unbiased opinions of real travellers. Rankings are calculated using highest traveller ratings, the Trip Advisor popularity index and measurements of overall satisfaction.
The awards come as the hotel celebrates its 10th anniversary on 21st June 2008 and the ongoing refurbishment programme is completed. Upgrades to the swimming pool area, restaurants and bedrooms are due to be completed in February and to celebrate, the hotel is launching a special anniversary package for guests booking directly. The package includes 10% discount on standard room rates and 10% discount within the hotel’s restaurants, bars and spa between 21 June 08 – 21 June 09.
Meanwhile, the hotel’s Photocéane Spa has also introduced a new range of Chinese inspired spa treatments. The TUI (‘push’) NA (‘catch’) body massage is a traditional massage that has existed for thousands of years and is currently the most common technique in China. The pressures, vibrations and stretching steps of this deep massage are carried out with the fingers, palms, hands, wrists, forearms and elbows. Tui na aims to regulate the flow of vital energy, improve blood and lymph circulation and is renowned for its revitalising and relaxing properties. For the face, a Chinese-inspired calligraphic massage has been introduced, where two brushes are used to apply pressure to the whole facial area neck and shoulders using circular and wave-live movements similar to the techniques of calligraphy.
Quintinha de São João builds new spa as part of wider upgrades
Quintinha de São João is to undergo significant upgrade and refurbishment works during 2008 to continue to offer visiting guests the best in comfort and facilities.
As part of the changes, the hotel will introduce a brand new dedicated spa which will significantly increase the spa offerings available to guests. The new area will be approximately 250m2 and offer three treatment rooms; one of which is specifically for couples. Called the ‘Quintinha Spa’, the new facility will differ from others on the island due to its concept linking it to the nature, plants and fruit trees that surround the area. Work is due to be started in February, after which exact treatment lists and products will be finalised.
A second change at the hotel will be the construction of a new 12m heated outdoor swimming pool. This will offer guests two pool options in the future, with the new pool being open-air while the old pool will be converted to become an indoor facility.
Internally, the hotel is completing a refurbishment of its en-suite facilities by introducing new equipment and colour schemes while refreshing the overall look. The rooms will also benefit from new televisions offering in-room DVD players, as well as the option to borrow a selection of books and DVD’s during their stay.
New ‘Rise and Shine’ package and couples’ spa lesson at Quinta das Vistas
Set on a hillside over looking Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean, 5* Quintas das Vistas is introducing a new package for 2008 designed to offer guests the perfect short break program to Madeira. The ‘Rise and Shine’ package costs €379 (approx £281) per person and includes:
- Three nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
- One morning ‘Rise and Shine’ treatment per person, per stay - choose from a selection of Chandra spa signature treatments, all lasting 3½ hours
- Use of spa facilities, including sauna, steam bath, sensation shower and whirlpools
- Complimentary shuttle service to Funchal and selected neighbouring Quintas
- Special gift on arrival
- Complimentary Madeira cake and wine in the room on arrival
- Valid until 20th December 2008
Alternatively guests can enjoy a couples’ massage lesson, where they are treated to a half body massage but then also taught some techniques of the trade. The session lasts 80 minutes, costing €240 (approx £178) and couples are given a bottle of exotic massage treatment at the end so they can practise their newly acquired skills.
Travel in style as a classic Rolls Royce returns to operate at four of the Quintas
Guests looking for a little bit of extra style during their trip to Madeira will this year be able to enjoy a trip in an old Rolls Royce. The classic car is based at Quintas das Vistas and also serves Quinta Perestrello, Quinta do Monte and Quinta do Estreito. The car will be available for visits to the stunning cliffs of Cabo Girão or for private hire and tailor made trips. Alternatively though, guests can enjoy a return trip from Quintas das Vistas to Quinta Perestrello, including afternoon tea with scones and cakes, for just €60 (approx £44) per couple.
Quinta Serragolf to open its first swimming pool
As part of Quinta Serragolf’s ongoing quality commitment to its guests, the hotel is preparing to extend its current facilities with the building of a new covered swimming pool during 2008. Work is due to start during the second half of the year and the new 10m heated pool will represent an entirely new offering for its guests, adding to the already popular activities of levada walking and golf at the 27-hole Serragolf course.
The hotel is also due to complete upgrade work on its historic 1920’s façade, which will mainly involve restoration work to return the Quinta to its full former glory. Guests will continue to benefit from modern service and facilities complete with classic old style charm, all with a new and refreshed feel.
For further information and to book any of the Quintas da Madeira hotels, please visit http://www.quintas-
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*Journalists with suitable commissions are welcome to visit any of the Quintas da Madeira. Please contact Zoë Martin for further details*
