insideKENT Magazine Issue 90 - September 2019 | Page 103

THE VINE HOTEL
THE QUINTINHA SAO JOAO HOTEL
finishes. The rooms, with their sophisticated mood
lighting, dark furnishings and modern bathrooms
(the showers are incredible!), offer a modern yet
restful haven, the suites catapult the luxury one step
further with stunning views of the city that can be
enjoyed from the bedroom window-side freestanding
bathtubs. Yet it’s the rooftop with its infinity pool,
lounge and bar where The Vine comes into its own.
Offering panoramic views of the city below it is
perfect not just for sunrises over the mountains and
chilled days by the pool but even more so for sunsets
over the city and nights whiled away with cocktail
in hand as the tunes spill out into the star filled sky.
Those seeking a more traditional yet equally as
luxurious abode should head to The Quintinha Sao
Joao Hotel, www.quintinhasaojoao.com/en/. Here
white washed, cast-iron balustraded balconies give
glorious sunrise views across the immaculate gardens
and the city rooftops beyond to the sea. Rooms are
huge offering comfortable and cosy surroundings,
large king size beds, dressing and seating areas.
Whilst the allure of the beautifully kept grounds,
secluded pool area and traditional fine dining
restaurant are enough it was the excitement of
sampling the in house spa that was enough to lure
me from the view.
Located in a separate building adjacent to the pool
nestled in the gardens lies the Spa da Quintinha. A
secluded haven from the city, inspired by nature
with low level windows out to the water of the pool
and rattan loungers to relax by windows with views
of the gardens. The therapy rooms themselves are
flooded with natural light and bathed in the sounds
of natural birdsong, providing a unique relaxing
atmosphere to be slathered in the wonderous Darphin
Paris Revitalizing (sic) oil used by the professional
yet friendly therapists for their full body massages….
Ahh bliss.
So another day another very unique treatment, but
this time I had to get there first!
Joining the throng at the harbour I embarked
on one of the daily ferry services run by the
Porto Santo Line (www.portosantoline.pt/). Whilst
not the quickest way across the archipelago,
(that accolaide goes to the amazing Binter Air
(www.bintercanarias.com) who managed to serve
water, snacks and chocolates, with a smile, to
everyone on board during the short 17 minute flight
back!) it is arguable the most beautiful, offering
intimate views of Funchal harbour, and stunning
103