Madeira's Hidden Gem: Florasol Residence Hotel (Dorisol Hotels) - Unforgettable Stay!
Madeira's Hidden Gem: Florasol Residence Hotel (Dorisol Hotels) - Unforgettable Stay! - My Honest Take
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on Florasol Residence Hotel in Madeira. Forget the glossy brochures, I'm talking real life, the good, the… well, let's just say the character-building. This place markets itself as an "unforgettable stay," and let me tell you, they're not wrong. Just maybe not in the way you anticipate. But hey, isn't life a little bit sweeter with a sprinkle of unexpected?
First Impressions: A Leg-Up with Accessibility (and a Tiny Teething Problem)
So, let's start with the good stuff. Accessibility. Florasol mostly delivers. The elevators? Smooth operators. The ramps? Present and accounted for. The promise of "Facilities for disabled guests"? They're trying. Now, I'm not in a wheelchair, but I did see a few guests navigating the place, and they seemed… well, mostly happy. The lobby is spacious, the public areas generally navigable. Mostly. The devil, as they say, is in the details. One thing I did notice? The signage could be a touch clearer for directions. Maybe invest in some giant, glowing arrows? Just a thought, Dorisol. Just a thought.
Rooms: Home Away From…Well, Home (But With a View!)
I'm a sucker for a good view. My room had a balcony, and the vista? Chef's kiss. Okay, maybe not Michelin-star perfect, but overlooking the ocean was pretty darn dreamy. The "Available in all rooms" list? Pretty comprehensive. Air conditioning blasting cold (thank god, it’s often hot as a dragon's nostril), a decent shower, a mini-bar (which, let's be honest, is usually filled with overpriced water, but hey, options!). Free Wi-Fi? Yep, in all rooms! Though sometimes, the connection decided to go on a little vacation of its own. Annoying, yes. Deal breaker? Nah. The high floor rooms are worth the wait.
The Food Frenzy: Buffet Bonanza and My Near-Death Salad Experience
Okay, let's talk food. This is where things get interesting. The breakfast buffet is, well, a buffet. An "International cuisine in restaurant" buffet, I'll give them that. You've got your eggs, your pastries, the usual suspects. But here's a pro tip: if you see a rogue "salad" lurking, approach with extreme caution. I'm not kidding. I, like a total idiot, reached for a seemingly innocent green leafy thing. Worst. Salad. Ever. It tasted like… well, I’m not sure what it tasted like, but let's just say my stomach staged a mini-rebellion for the next few hours. Lesson learned: Stick to the omelets. The Asian breakfast was a nice change of pace. The coffee/tea in restaurant was always available and the waiters were kind.
The other restaurants? They're there. A la carte. Decent. Nothing to write home about, but you’ll survive. The pool side bar has a lovely happy hour, and the poolside is simply great. The bar also offers a pool. And the pool has a view, it's truly a magical place.
Things to Do (Or Not): Spa Days and Sun Soaking
Remember that “unforgettable” promise? Well, the "ways to relax" section of my stay certainly delivered. The spa? It's there! Sauna, steamroom, massage – the works. Now, I’m not a spa aficionado, but I did treat myself to a massage. It was… perfectly adequate. The focus on a good spa day seems like it's worth it at this hotel!
The "Swimming pool [outdoor]" is a highlight. Pool with view? Definitely. I spent hours sunbathing, reading, and generally achieving peak relaxation. The outdoor venue for special events is also an awesome feature, especially if there is a wedding, or a party.
Cleanliness and Safety: Anti-Viral? Check. Peace of Mind? Mostly.
Okay, let's get serious for a sec. Cleanliness and safety are key these days. Florasol gets props for its efforts. "Anti-viral cleaning products," "Daily disinfection in common areas," "Hand sanitizer" everywhere. They are really on top of it. And for those who are worried about getting sick on vacation, there is a doctor/nurse on call. I felt safe. I really did.
Services and Conveniences: Little Gems and a Few Oddities
Florasol has all the usual suspects: "Daily housekeeping," "Laundry service," "Concierge" (who were generally helpful), and a "Gift/souvenir shop" (perfect for last-minute panic buying). The "Facilities for disabled guests" are a work in progress. The convenience store can be useful if you need something in a hurry.
Getting Around: Airport Transfer and Parking (Blessedly, Free!)
"Airport transfer?" Yep. Very handy. "Car park [free of charge], car park [on-site]?" Score! Having free parking is a massive win. The taxi service is also available.
The Verdict?
Look, Florasol Residence Hotel isn’t perfect. It’s not going to blow your mind with Michelin-star cuisine or a spa experience that will change your life. But it is a solid, comfortable option with a fantastic view, a decent pool, and a genuine effort to be accessible and safe. It is a good base to explore Madeira, the staff are generally friendly, and the location is pretty great. The imperfections? They add to the character, the "unforgettable" factor.
My Final, Unfiltered Score: 7.5 out of 10 (would be higher if my salad hadn't tried to kill me).
Ready to Book Your Unforgettable Escape? My Exclusive Offer for YOU!
Tired of the same old, boring hotel stays? Craving a taste of Madeira’s magic? Then book your escape to Florasol Residence Hotel today and experience an unforgettable getaway!
Here’s what awaits you:
- Stunning Ocean Views: Wake up to breathtaking vistas from your private balcony. It's Instagram gold, people.
- Relax and Recharge: Soak up the sun by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, and leave your worries at home. This place is made for chilling.
- Delicious Delights: While you might want to avoid my salad-based mishap, the breakfast buffet is a great start to the day. And the poolside bar? Pure bliss.
- Accessibility that Matters: Smooth elevators, accessible rooms, and a commitment to making your stay comfortable.
- Safe and Sound: Rest easy knowing that the hotel is prioritizing your safety with rigorous cleaning protocols.
But wait, there's more!
- Hurry, book now and get a 10% discount on your room rate! Use promo code MADEIRAJOY at checkout.
- Plus, we'll throw in a complimentary bottle of local Madeira wine to enjoy on your balcony. Cheers to that!
- Exclusive early booking privilege: Enjoy 10% off of any spa treatment.
Don't wait! This offer is for a limited time only. Click Here To Book your Madeira adventure now! [Insert Link to Florasol Website Here]
P.S. Let me know if you find the salad – I’m still looking for answers! And be sure to tell them I sent you. 😉
Escape to Italy's Stunning Lake Maggiore: Hotel Funivia Laveno Mombello Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into my Madeira Island adventure, specifically a gloriously messy week at the Florasol Residence Hotel - Dorisol. Let's see if I can remember it all… without completely losing my mind. (Spoiler alert: I probably will.)
Day 1: Arrival – Lost Luggage and Lush Landscapes (and a Panic Attack)
Morning: Landed in Funchal! The airport? Let's just say it's an exercise in faith. Long runway, short landing strip, a bit of "hold your breath" on arrival. The wind decided to have an opinion that day. Then the luggage carousel – oh, the agonizing dance of waiting! My bag, bless its cotton socks, decided to take a scenic tour of… somewhere. Cue the slight existential dread. "Will I have to buy new underwear?" flashed through my desperate mind.
Afternoon: Dragged myself (and my increasingly grumpy travel companion, bless his heart) to the Florasol. First impressions? Clean, bright, and slightly too many floral arrangements. Not my usual vibe, but hey, I'm here for the scenery, not the decor, right? The view from my balcony was breathtaking. Seriously. Jaw-dropping. The Atlantic stretched out, shimmering, and the mountains… well, the mountains were just there, majestic as ever.
Evening: Settled in. Ate at the hotel restaurant. The food? Fine, mostly forgettable. But then, the panic set in. My luggage? Still MIA. Spent an embarrassing hour on the phone to… well probably many different services at the airport, and by the time I had finished my first "revelation" that it was a complete waste of my time, I had the terrible realization of how unprepared I always am… And then there were the mosquitos. They feasted on me all night.
Day 2: Levada Walks and Emotional Rollercoasters (and a near-death experience with a banana)
Morning: Finally had a better night, the hotel even tried to find my luggage. Decided to embrace the "lost and found" philosophy. We hit the Levadas! These irrigation channels, carved into the mountains, are legendary. We chose a relatively easy one, thinking, "Oh, a gentle stroll." Famous last words. The path was narrow, the drop-off? Significant. My fear of heights reared its ugly head, and I clung to the mountainside like a limpet. Every rustle of leaves (probably just a bird) sent my heart rate soaring.
Afternoon: Made some new friends, a couple whose names I have already forgotten. We enjoyed lunch. I took a bad bite of a banana. I went to the bathroom but kept thinking about that banana. The couple came, we caught up on the day and the banana. And I was fine about it.
Evening: Back at the hotel. Had a little cry, then an intense session of gorging on everything in the snack vending machine because, you know, emotions.
Day 3: Funchal Frenzy and the Fear of Madeira Wine
Morning: Got to Funchal! Lovely town, bit crowded in places. The market, Mercado dos Lavradores, was a sensory overload in the best possible way. Exotic fruits, fish with eyes that seemed to judge my very soul… and then, the flowers. Everywhere! Like a technicolour explosion.
Afternoon: Wine tasting. The tour was mandatory. I don't care much for alcohol, but Madeira wine is the thing to do. The guide was a delightful old man who clearly loved his job. He had a twinkle in his eye and a story for every sip. The sweet Madeira? Disgusting. The dry? Surprisingly good! Walked out slightly tipsy, and giggling.
Evening: Dinner out in Funchal. Gorgeous view of the harbour. The food? Actually fantastic. More importantly, my luggage arrived! Yay! Pure, unadulterated joy mixed with relief. Woke up in a great mood!
Day 4: Coastal Views and Coastal Boo-Boos (and the Pain of a Sunburn)
Morning: Decided to be spontaneous and explore. Rented a car, which was probably a mistake. Driving on the Madeira roads is an adventure in itself. Narrow, winding, with hairpin turns that could induce whiplash. Ended up on the coast, searching for a secluded beach. Didn't find one, but the scenery was incredible, the sea was brilliant.
Afternoon: Went to the beach in Porto Moniz. Well, I tried to. Forgot the sunscreen. Bad, bad, bad. The sun… oh, the sun! I am now a lobster with a tan.
Evening: The hotel's pool was inviting! Relaxed at the pool for 1 hour, then had dinner.
Day 5: Back to the mountains, with a vengeance
Morning: Went back! I needed to explore the mountains once more. The views from the peaks are worth all the effort. I don't know what happens, but the mountains give me peace.
Afternoon: Went down, had a lovely coffee break.
Evening: Walked in the city for a while. The city is amazing.
Day 6: Lazy Day, Deep Thoughts, and Regret
Morning: Slept in, which was bliss because I needed it!
Afternoon: Had a delicious lunch. I felt so bad that I was returning to my home.
Evening: Packed, which was an exercise in frustration. Ate bland food.
Day 7: Farewell, Madeira! (And a Vow to Return, Sooner Rather Than Later)
Morning: Checked out. One last longing look at the sea.
Afternoon: Flight on the plane.
Evening: Back home.
Final Thoughts:
Madeira Island? It's a riot of colour, a feast for the senses, and a challenge to the soul. It pushed me to my limits, made me laugh, made me cry (a lot), and left me with a lingering sense of wonder. Sure, there were meltdowns, there were the minor annoyances, and sure, my luggage went on a little holiday of its own, but, I wouldn't trade a single moment. I'll be back, Madeira. You haven't seen the last of me! Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to try and unpack… again.
Because, let's be honest, the messy, imperfect bits? Those are the memories that stick.
Escape to Paradise: Sai Farm & Resort Cottages in Lonavala!
Florasol Residence Hotel (Dorisol Hotels): Your Madeira Adventure Begins! (Or Does It?)
Okay, okay, Florasol. Sounds nice. Where *exactly* is this place, and is it actually a 'hidden gem' or just… hidden?
What are the rooms like? Are we talking plush robes and champagne, or 'budget traveler with a spectacular view' situation?
Food, glorious food! What's the breakfast buffet like? And are there decent restaurants nearby? Because, let's be real, I *need* my pre-hike fuel.
Any must-do activities or excursions nearby that I can walk to? (Or, at least, that aren't too painful to get to… uphill…)
Does the hotel have a pool? Because let's be honest, after all that walking, a swim is a must!
Anything else I should know before I book? Any hidden costs or things to watch out for?
Alright, spill. What was *your* overall experience like? Would you go back? Be honest!
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