Sunrise to Sunset: A Day by the Ocean in Madeira
Day and night, make the most of Madeira. Discover subtropical gardens, find the archipelago's best surfing spots and dine on ocean-to-table delicacies from the comfort of Reid's Palace.
The ocean has a magnetic pull that people have long been drawn to. It’s a landscape that’s so intrinsic to the island of Madeira that it supports communities, entire ecosystems, and is part of what has brought people here for centuries. At Reid’s Palace, connecting with the ocean is inevitable throughout your stay.
Situated on a clifftop overlooking the Atlantic, you’ll discover the island’s mythical maritime history and see why a day spent on and around the ocean in Madeira is so special. Here’s the best way to spend a day in Madeira between the sun rising across the crashing waves to a spectacular sunset.
1 / 6
8am: Morning Swim
A relaxing night at Reid’s calls for a refreshing morning swim – and our guests are just in luck with three pools stretching out in our estate. Two of the pools are heated but for those in search of a thrilling dip to kickstart their morning routine, the sea platform is the place to jump straight into the ocean.
2 / 6
10am: Surfing Session
A hotspot for world-class waves, Madeira is home to surfers and nature lovers alike. The archipelago teems with beginner-friendly surfing spots like Porto da Cruz and São Vicente on the north coast, while Paul do Mar and Faja de Areia are where powerful swells await.
3 / 6
12pm: Stop for Lunch
Pause for lunch on the pool terrace for a platter of grilled locally caught seafood served with a view across the ocean or leave land behind and dine on seafood, out at sea. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, hire one of our private boats – complete with your own private chef and butler – and cruise around Madeira’s coastline of incredible scenery as you try local dishes served on deck.
4 / 6
2pm: Choose Your Own Ocean Adventure
Madeira has limitless options for you to explore. Discover the Desertas, three rocky islands located southeast of Madeira that are home to a colony of monk seals and are surrounded by crystalline water, perfect for a swim.
If you want to see more wildlife, jump on a speed boat and head further into the Atlantic Ocean where you’ll catch sight of dolphins, turtles and pilot whales. For those who prefer calmer moments, opt for a tranquil paddleboarding session along the shores of Funchal Bay.
5 / 6
4pm: Moment for Relaxation
The sound of the waves alone makes a trip to Madeira’s coast relaxing but take it one step further with a visit to Reid’s spa or a wander around the botanic gardens. With abundant lush greenery and full of flowers, it’s your place to truly connect with nature.
6 / 6
8pm: Dinner with a View
When the sun sets, head to Brisa do Mar, our open-air restaurant translating as sea breeze. The ocean-to-table menu offers a succulent peixe do dia, the catch of the day, or a classic bacalhau topped with cornbread and herbs.
You might also enjoy
Recipe: Enchiladas del Portal
While the term ‘enchiladas’ covers a wide range of flavour combinations with infinite permutations of stuffings and toppings, this version uses Guajillo chillies for a beautifully smoky flavour and sweet heat, which combines perfectly with cinnamon and cumin – the ultimate Mexican comfort food.
The Great British Sunday Roast
The Brits’ love of a Sunday Roast has survived rationing and the rise of fads and food trends to carve out a place at the very heart of British culture. Discover the history of our national love affair with the Sunday Roast, and where to find the very best in London.
The Wedding Trends Defining 2026
Planning your big day? Weddings in 2026 are moving beyond tradition to embrace celebrations that are personal, meaningful and effortlessly elegant. From intimate beach elopements to sophisticated Art Deco-inspired soirées, discover the top trends for next year – each paired with the perfect Belmond venue.
Breaking Bread with Chef Dominique Crenn
Forget everything you thought you knew about dining on a boat. Meet Chef Dominique Crenn – of the 3 Michelin star Atelier Crenn – who is charting a new course for French river cruising on board Les Bateaux Belmond, her new culinary canvas.
Breaking Bread with Chef André Chiang
With every dish he creates, Chef André Chiang wants to capture the taste of a place and the story of a journey. We stepped into the kitchen of the culinary curator onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express as it travels through Malaysia for an insight into his culinary philosophy and the art of writing a menu.
Recipe: Hotel Cipriani’s Bellini Cocktail
With fragrant white peach and chilled Prosecco, the Bellini is arguably the most famous cocktail in Venice. Learn how to make it with the original recipe from inventor Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of our iconic Hotel Cipriani.
164 Seasons of Le Manoir with Raymond Blanc OBE
For 164 seasons spanning over 41 years, Chef Raymond Blanc OBE has pioneered garden-to-table gastronomy at Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxfordshire. As we honour his legacy with his transition from Chef Patron to Founder and Lifetime Ambassador, we take a moment with him to look back at the last four decades of excellence, passion and joy.