The Reserve Hotel

If the name Savoy Palace doesn’t sound glamorous enough on its own, consider the idea of an exclusive hotel-within-a-hotel occupying the penthouse level — a place with a private rooftop pool and personal assistants on hand around the clock to attend to guests’ every need. This is The Reserve, a luxurious boutique hotel located on the uppermost six floors of Funchal’s towering waterfront landmark.

Every room in the building overlooks Madeira’s coastline, but the very best views are reserved for the top, accessible by a private elevator from street level. Guests are welcome to use any of the Palace’s pools, bars, and restaurants, but most stick to the quiet luxury of the Jacarandá Club, the Reserve’s chic all-day lounge and bar, which leads to a wide palm tree-dotted sun deck and a gorgeous infinity pool. No need to battle a crowd for poolside cocktails or a good spot in the shade.

Sleek white and ivory-hued rooms and suites are laid out like luxury apartments, with distinct living areas, palatial marble bathrooms, and furnished outdoor spaces with ocean views. Corner suites have beautiful wraparound balconies, and pool suites have turquoise-tiled plunge pools. All come with a dedicated personal assistant to handle complimentary unpacking service, book a table at the hotel’s upscale Japanese restaurant, or arrange for treatments at the spa, an ethereal space inspired by the island’s ancient forests. Turndown service includes a bottle of Madeira and traditional honey cake, a charming nod to the region’s history.