Located on Madeira’s sunny southwest coast in Calheta, Saccharum Resort & Spa is a modern five-star hotel that combines striking architecture with sweeping Atlantic views. The resort is part of the Savoy Signature group, the same collection behind the luxury Savoy Palace Madeira in nearby Funchal, but Saccharum is the first stop on this Madeira adventure, and this feel is synonymous with nature, wild beautiful nature, with a contemporary feel. Welcome on this journey and discover why this ticks all the boxes for the ultimate recharge retreat on this beautiful island.
Madeira. A majestic island, often called the “island of eternal spring,” attracts visitors with its lush mountains, volcanic coastline, scenic levada walking trails and vibrant botanical gardens. The capital, Funchal, offers historic streets, lively markets and a strong food and wine culture, while quieter coastal areas such as Calheta provide golden beaches, marinas and some of the island’s sunniest weather. Whether you come for hiking, ocean views, wine tasting or simply to unwind, Madeira offers a balance of nature, culture and easygoing luxury that makes it one of Europe’s most appealing island escapes. And in order to enjoy this island to its fullest, staying in the right places are certainly going to help you make the most of it all. Saccharum Resort was designed by acclaimed Madeiran designer, Nini Andrade Silva and sits on the site of a former sugar cane mill. That history influences much of the design, too. But first we must talk about what shines out first and foremost: the Portuguese hospitality. And when you check into Saccharum Resort in Madeira, you're ready to step into the finest that the island has to offer. With a premium experience at the resort, you get access to a number of benefits, but firstly check in and getting around the hotel was simple and easy - it's elegant, refined and luxurious and with your little card, you can tap in and out of areas (with your premium experience) which makes it feel even more VIP.
The design of the resort draws heavily from its natural surroundings, with a particular tribute to sugar cane — a crop that has shaped the land for centuries and once thrived on this very site.
Hospitality - and sustainability - the fine touches
Savoy Signature Collection puts hospitality at the forefront. Not only do they pride themselves on the luxury and sophistication of their hotels, but the way in which they treat each guest from the beginning is the ultimate in luxury. With the premium experience, little treats arrive each afternoon, from local delicacies to sweet treats, such as sugar cane juice and cake and savouries. They ask how you are, chat to you around the hotel and the service is always with a smile. The whole hotel is focused on its ethics and its desire to remain sustainable! The landscape, the attention to detail with design, and wellness is at the heart. Essentially the ideal rejuvenation wellness escape, it thinks of everything, from exceptional food (we will talk about that soon), an incredible spa, laid back atmosphere, places for quiet, walks by the ocean and more, it really allows you to reset your mind and body - even when you didn't realise you needed it.
The hotel lobby perfectly shows you just how this resort came to be, with a small gallery of its history, a large lobby with a piano and plenty of places to just sit and be. The hotel's dedication to sustainability stretches further also. They have electric vehicle charging and parking, they also dedicate themselves to make guests also consider how important sustainability is. Not changing towels if not needed, etc and not wasting things - this comes along with their "there is no planet B" mantra, which we greatly appreciate.
Suites and living space
Savoy Signature Collection know how to make you feel at home. When we reached the Ocean Suite, it was evident this was going to be magical. The suite itself overlooked the ocean, with a large balcony with plenty of place to relax, read, sunbathe or work. Inside, was a large dressing area, with a rainfall shower, two large twin beds, and a living space, complete with two large TVs in both, a Nespresso machine, a lovely large sofa, electric blinds, a robe, slippers, and a yoga mat inside your closet. There was also a large tote bag filled with amenities such as hats, suncream, a magazine, fruit and water. A thoughtful gesture which didn't go unnoticed. The beds are comfortable with a pillow menu if needed.
Five star food
Savoy Signature Collection puts hospitality at the forefront. Where to begin with the food. There are numerous places to eat and drink within Saccharum. These include: Alambique, Engenho Restaurant, and Trapiche, and the bars, Fly Lounge Bar, Rhum Bar, Garapa bar, and Calhau Beach club. We were lucky enough to taste a few of these. Firstly it is important to note that this food is not simple. It's exquisite from flavours, to presentation and variation. The food is impeccably fresh, it's all delicious and flavoursome, with a lot of emphasis on fresh fish and meat. The fruits and vegetables are amazing, and are the perfect treat for breakfast. And of course they have gluten free options for dinners and breakfasts.
Alambique
Alambique is a fine dining experience that leaves you feeling wowed. It's classy and sophisticated in style, a balcony for the warmer evenings and inside, regal style settings, and an open kitchen, a place to watch the chefs create the dishes, which is a truly enjoyable experience. Their precision and attention to detail and their focus is a true treat, and makes you enjoy the food even more. On the menu we had shrimp carpaccio, a zesty delicious slightly spicy delight that tasted fresh and became an explosion of taste in the mouth. From a zing of fruit to chilli oil, to mildly peppery, there were flavours merging that tasted great. The shrimp was fresh, and it was accompanied by their warm homemade bread.
For mains, we sampled the vegetarian option for balance. The grilled asparagus with pea hummus and toasted hazelnut was lovely! The portions were generous, perhaps too much of the hummus to be able to finish, but nevertheless the taste was impeccable! For dessert, of course, it had to be the warm chocolate cake. Made from 70% chocolate and sweet potato, it was like no other cake we've ever sampled. It melted in the mouth, was smooth and creamy, yet the chocolate was punchy and sweet. Great service, excellent atmosphere, highly worth trying - a certain Friday night out feel.
Trapiche
Trapiche is the rooftop restaurant, which boasts magnificent views. Additionally, it is outside, with fire lit heaters that really do keep the chill out. The food here was again, like the rest of Saccharum, fine dining with an element of true European flavours. A mix of both fish and meat, it was again an excellent choice, with something for everyone. The sustainability factor also really kicks in here. With greener seasonal dishes served here, all parts of the ingredients are used, and fresh vegetables from the chef's garden are woven into the wonderful dishes on offer. Nothing goes unused, and the garden 'provides and ventures into fermentations and natural seasonings'. Starting off strong, we tried the banana tempura with sugarcane syrup, fermented chestnut puree and schichimi tougarashi. Sweet yet mildly savoury, it felt a little like a dessert at first, until you really begin to taste the schichimi tougarashi and the salty element. Cooked to perfection, it was a definite strong choice to also sample the local bananas, which of course Madeira is famous for.
Onto mains, the spicy octopus was a recommendation from the chef, and was a hefty dish! Plenty to eat, the octopus was not too tough, and just the right amount of spice, with a sweetness to it also. It was meaty, well cooked and served with potatoes. Finally, for dessert, we sampled the brownie with coconut sorbet. The brownie was soft and airy, and the coconut sorbet was sweet and creamy, almost feeling like an ice-cream in texture. Accompanied with a coffee, it is the perfect finishing touch to a meal. Trapiche feels like a summer evening must, after a long day of swimming and sun.
Calhau Beach Club
The beach club! Lunch and light bites are served here all day. This little haven across the road and on the beach at Saccharum was probably one of the highlights. With tropical stylish decor, woven interiors, hanging lanterns and the Atlantic right ahead, this place feels like summer mixed with luxury. The food here was an absolute gem, and a personal favourite from us at Floraison. Ideal for sitting all day soaking up the sun, chatting with friends, or simply reading in the sun, it is brilliant for all. We sampled the nachos, the coastal fish ceviche with mango and ginger, with a side of garlic bread. The food was five star. Truly the type of food you can continue to eat and eat... as we did! The waiters kindly brought 'banana bread' to try also, which was delicious, syrupy and sweet. The smoothies, mango and passionfruit and banana and peanut butter were also immaculate. The passionfruit especially is a favourite here at Saccharum (breakfast fresh passionfruit juice was wonderful) and all the dishes feel incredibly healthy, fresh and in keeping with the mantra of Saccharum - "wellness".
Onda Azul (Calheta Beach hotel)
A five minute walk away from the hotel is Calheta Beach hotel, a sister hotel and part of the incredible Savoy Collection. This hotel has a more family friendly vibe, and is very close to the small marina and beach of the area, which is a very nice spot to see. Onda Azul may not be a fine dining restaurant but its food was lovely and the staff were excellent. We sampled the crab salad to start with - a crab paste with avocado and salad leaves and mustard seeds. Secondly, the next dish was the confit cod with chickpeas and greens of the day (pak choi). A delicate dish, with meaty fish and chickpeas, a savoury dish that was incredibly filling! The menu has a range of both fish and meat, but the fish in this area is too good to miss. Finally, to finish off, the chocolate mousse was the chosen dessert dish. It was rich and creamy, very thick but was incredibly tasty. It was a great meal, ideal for an evening to sit, talk, relax, this laid back feel felt very nice for the final night at Saccharum.
The Club
This is exclusive to the premium experience and is a quiet private rooftop area with snacks and drinks available all day. But they're not just simple - they're amazing pieces of culinary treats themselves! From little pots of salads, to chilli and chocolate cakes, homemade quiches, and more, everything is luxury. The decor is elegant and boasts views of the ocean. You can also enjoy breakfast here. With drinks on tap, it feels like a vacation - but a healthy one! Of course there are also numerous bars in the hotel, but a favourite was the Fly Lounge bar. You'll find plenty of live music on here, and it's truly a wonderful atmosphere with great cocktails and service. If you're looking for a premium experience, you'll find a number of great benefits, but to highlight a few that stand out:
- Welcome drink at "The Club" (full access)
- Late check out (up to 6pm if needed)
- Yoga, pilates and tai chi classes
- Access to Bali beds at the beach club
- In-room daily delicatessen
- Premium wifi
Saccharum is truly a wellness retreat overlooking the ocean, that leaves you feeling the best version of you. It doesn't feel like a holiday resort, it feels like a lifestyle. A place you can return to over and over, renewing each time, and taking in the power of Madeira. This is an ideal resort for anyone, however, it is best suited for adults. It most definitely caters to solo travellers too - this place has a homely feel, the wellness element is highlighted here, it is a place to rejuvenate, and therefore is a Floraison recommendation for solo travellers. It's a place to quiet your mind, to relax the soul, and to feel true freedom.
For more information on booking your stay, please see below:
Website: Saccharum Resort
Instagram: @saccharumresort
PR stay.