My husband & I chose Madeira as the destination for our 'babymoon', a last holiday in the sun together as a couple before I was too advanced in my pregnancy to fly. The Melia Madeira Mare (MMM), although definitely not in the traditional Manueline Portuguese style favoured by other establishments in Funchal, was a perfect choice of hotel for our travelling needs as everything was on-site with all the ultra mod-cons (and not too far from the district hospital in case of emergency, as my fastidious hubby ensured!).

The MMM certainly lives up to its reputation as a plush modern hotel with amazing facilties and very good service. The rooms were incredibly comfortable with all the kit, the bathroom was divine and I loved the in-built speakers so you could listen to your choice of radio or tv programme whilst relaxing in the bath! The outdoor pool area was heaven with a large pool, baby paddling pool, sunloungers that dipped into the water and of course that amazing view of the Atlantic, what a calming & soothing sight! In fact, it wasn't until our last day that I ventured onto the terraces and discovered there were other mezzanine levels for sunbathers, with an enormous cabana stuffed with pillows and billowing linens to shelter from the scorching rays (see photos). Indoors, the swimming pool and spa were equally impressive and virtually deserted (I suppose e/o was outside mesmerized by the Atlantic!), so if you wanted a more private swim or moment of relaxing solitude there was the opportunity to have both.

Breakfast was on a grand scale and impeccably served; I lost count of the various dishes and foods on offer but took especial note of the 'Portuguese' table decorated in the middle of the buffet area which served locally-sourced and traditional healthy products, a lovely touch. I have to admit that I did also indulge in a 'champagne' brekkie one morning of our stay, it was too tempting watching other diners helping themselves to glasses of refreshing fizz readily available from the chilled bottles on the counter. When in Rome...

Other points to mention about the MMM: reception staff are polite, accommodating and infinitely helpful. We were given a fantastic recommendation by one of the concierge for the seafood restaurant O Barqueiro & absolutely loved it there (go at sunset, the view is spectacular). There is a tiny car rental place up the hill opposite the hotel, very convenient if you want to hire a vehicle to explore the rest of the island which we sadly only did for a day as my condition didn't really allow me to take on some of the more adventurous levada walks. There are also grocery stores opposite available for snacks & essentials.

A small point to mention is the location of the MMM: its situated in the Lido-Sol area of Funchal and as such is NOT in the centre of the capital or near the port; in order to get to the historical centre you need to take a bus or taxi (bus stop right outside hotel though so no biggie) which may not be ideal for everyone. However, for those who like a dip in the ocean or are keen swimmers, the area is home to the large public Lido (hence the name) from where I believe there is access to a rocky outcrop and the ocean; this may appeal as there are very few sandy beaches in and around Funchal (for those you need to get a cruise to the island of Porto Santo!) so hardly any opportunity to sunbathe directly on a beach.

I would really love to have awarded the MMM a top 5* rating as we truly did have a most amazing vacation here, myself and bump never felt better during our stay. I have to deduct a half-point for the fact that some of the evening entertainment advertised in the hotel never materialised which was most disappointing to this pregnant lady! We were all ready for a 'parrot-show-extravanganza' but the handler & birds were so late in turning up plus management became so flustered that most of the audience dispersed, including us. We did get a free drink at the pool-side bar to make up for it though!

We have just had a fabulous week's break at the Melia Madeira Mare Hotel. It was difficult to fault the hotel in any way. The food and all the facilities were of the highest standards. Lovely quiet rooms.It was our wedding anniversary and the staff made a big effort to make the stay special. All the staff were extremely friendly. We are looking forward to returning.

We got a cheap deal at this hotel for a week on half board basis.
On arrival we were parked our hire car in the secure underground car park then made our way to reception. We we instantly impressed by the large, well decorated public area and the checking in process was efficient with pleasant staff.
We went to the room which was impressive with a comfortable bed and nice bathroom. We had a nice side sea view. Looking at the layout of the hotel I would think that almost every room has some view of the sea.
There was a well set out pool area with a bar. Towels and lounger cushions were provided and again there was a good view of the sea.
Some minor niggles were the lack of milk in the room. Two small UHT pots really does not suffice but due to the refrigerated mini bar we were able to get fresh milk from the spar shop 25 yards away opposite the hotel.
FOOD
From my limited experience of 5 star hotels the food provided was not 5 star food.
Dinner
It was perfectly acceptable for the price we had paid and was always well presented but the chef really should taste his food before it gets sent out as on a number of occasions far too much salt had been used and I like plenty of salt. My partner had to leave food due to too much salt. Some meals were swimming in grease too.
The first night we were there it was a hot buffet and I found this to be really nice but the remaining meals were table d'hôte with waiter service. I think this was due to the lack of guests on the week we were there. The service was very pleasant and efficient and generally the meals were very nice but just didn't quite hit the mark. Bread served in the evening was not the freshest and probably left over from the morning.
Little choice for dessert, either cheese and biscuits or fruit with a couple of what appeared to be bought in puddings such as fairly tasteless cheesecake or tiramisu.
Breakfast
Very big selection for breakfast. Buffet style with good omelettes cooked while you wait. Excellent continental breakfast. Cooked breakfast not quite so good. The bacon had been cooked in the oven and had the consistency of beef jerky. Coffee was a bit wishy washy.

Don't let my criticism of the food put you off. I am a little fussy but overall it was quite nice and tasty just expected a little better from a five star hotel.
If I was booking the hotel direct I would go for the b & b option and eat out at night. Some nice restaurants in the immediate area and Funchal centre a short taxi or bus ride away.

Overall a lovely 5 star hotel and a great stay only slightly marred by the quality of the food.
I would stay here again in an instant.

Excellent hotel with good facilities and attentive staff. Modern hotel with high standard of decor. Area around swimming pool being upgraded during our stay, but did not impact on facilities. Only had breakfast which was fine with a good choice to suit all tastes. Internet available free of charge throughout hotel. We would definitely revisit this hotel.