Socalco Nature Calheta

First trip to Madeira and we decided to base 3 nights out of Calheta. We could not have chosen a better location than Socalco. We were in #10 (Casa de cascata) and it was peaceful, private, and comfortable. Every morning's breakfast was fantastic and plentiful, with the option to add on eggs of any style. One of our days, the staff packed us a breakfast to go and delivered the night before, as we had an early start to visit the Fanal Forest (which is a must do!). We had dinner one night (the 6 course option; there are also 3 and 4 course options) and it was lovely. Everyone has different price points, but we could not get over the value of this stay: Beautiful, clean, modern accommodations in a natural setting with friendly, competent staff who were great at their jobs, friendly, and genuinely seemed happy to be part of the Socalco team. We loved this place so much that it's worth coming back to Madeira just to stay here again. We were very busy during our stay (there is a LOT to do on Madeira), so we didn't use the pool or loungers.

The Hotel Socalco Nature was like an oasis of calm. We had an excellent rest there. Staying in the middle of a vineyard and in a room that is half grotto and half hotel room offers a unique ambience with plenty of peace and quiet. The panoramic window had a bench where you could lie down, read and admire the vineyard and the sea. But the grotto also had a special smell that you got used to and was eliminated by means of an integrated fan with integrated time control. The lush vegetation in the vineyard could not only be viewed, but also enjoyed in the restaurant in the evening. Herbs and salads grew amongst the vines. The restaurant didn't have a menu as such, you could choose between 3, 4 or 5 course menus, vegetarian, fish or meat. That was it, the kitchen served the local fish that had just been freshly caught. The cuisine didn't have a huge selection, but it was definitely Michelin quality. The staff were all super friendly and helpful. Their own port wine is in a class of its own, and the service always knew how to make us curious about new local specialties. Even if something wasn't available, something similar was created (apple juice spritzer) which tasted better than the original. The managers at reception were also very helpful when we had to overcome some personal challenges. Parking like everywhere else in Madeira, not for the faint-hearted and sometimes challenging. We definitely want to come back and are already planning our next stay. By the way: down in Caletha is supposedly the only sandy beach for swimming in Madeira. I loved exploring the extensive grounds and the many stairs, but it could be difficult for people with walking difficulties.