Madeira / Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira

Set on its own private peninsula above Funchal harbour, this distinguished property to which Winston Churchill retreated to write his war memoirs is an island institution.

Unruffled and elegant, Belmond Reid’s Palace has managed to do what few hotels can, live in the past and present all at once. There’s a history here, with rooms hinting back to 1920s glamour (minus even a hint of an out-dated aura) and suites named after two famous guests – Churchill and George Bernard Shaw. Even the lounge and dining have a golden-days flair cut through by the contemporary with modern fine dining served on silver trays and swing evenings with an added Latin twist.

But in true Belmond style, this iconic escape wants its guests to experience something a little special, and we’re not just talking about the sea level platform to dive straight into the ocean. Think 4x4 jeep rides to watch the sun rise from the Pico do Arieiro; family voyages to Desertas, exploring the nooks and crannies of caverns and grottos; and visits to a fashion designer accompanied by the resort’s Michelin-starred Chef Luís Pestana, who will create delicacies inspired by the clothing.

Travel notes:

• 128 rooms and suites
• Cuisine ranging from modern fine dining and traditional Italian to classic afternoon tea
• Spa with treatment rooms and ocean-facing private terraces
• Tours of the gardens with an expert horticulturalist
• Kids’ club including scavenger hunts and afternoon teas
• A calendar of events including food festivals with workshops