Reids Palace a Belmond Hotel

What an incredible find! The property perfectly balances professional service with a warm, home-like atmosphere. The staff's attention to detail is remarkable, from remembering guest preferences to maintaining spotless facilities. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with both aesthetics and comfort in mind. The breakfast service is a particular highlight, offering both qual

Oh dear. I realise the many 4/5 star reviews this establishment receives and I can partly understand why, however, our experience was somewhat disappointing to say the least. We attended for High Tea on a Tuesday afternoon, we had been looking forward to it as it was an anniversary treat. We were ushered to the balcony and shown to our seats by “Gonzalo”, I believe was his name. The view was fantastic and a pleasurable afternoon awaited. Unfortunately, Gonzalo (I did try to get his surname but no one would provide it!!), Gonzalo tells me that I was not appropriately dressed, shorts (non sporting), an expensive polo shirt etc, he further informs me that should I wish to attend the establishment in the future I would be refused entry due to my attire. To say I was humiliated, offended and insulted by his comments would be an understatement. If my attire wasn’t suitable why was I allowed in? They were happy to take the money and only then be rude and insulting, looking around there were people wearing walking boots, walking shorts and carrying rucksacks, were these people given the humiliating treatment also, or was it just me? As can be imagined this put a bit of a downer on the afternoon. A waiter appeared and confirmed that we were celebrating a special occasion, and he asked if we’d like a glass of champagne, to which we agreed. Sandwich’s arrived which were thin and contained almost no filling, if you enjoy a bread sandwich you’ll enjoy Reid’s, I wouldn’t have thought it was possible to get so little filling into a sandwich, but they were cut beautifully!! On leaving we were presented with the bill which was agreeable but included €56 for the 2 glasses of champagne, poured from an already open bottle!!! On leaving I tried to obtain “Gonzalos” name, just to ensure I was referring to the right individual. Staff refused to provide any further information, or write the name down, other staff appeared and all refused to assist. A sad end to what promised to be an enjoyable afternoon. To have been insulted, offended and humiliated is frankly unacceptable. I fully agree with maintaining standards but Reid’s and the supercilious staff, €28 for a glass of champagne and poor product is not acceptable. Better establishments are in Funchal, ones that don’t look down their nose at customers whilst serving sandwiches or have the opinion that they are doing the customer a favour by letting them in. This review will have no impact on Reid’s or the further 4/5 star reviews it will get, this is just my experience.