Socalco Nature Hotel

Our stay here was absolutely exceptional and oh-so-delicious! We stayed for 3 nights and ate at the restaurant every day for at least 2 of our meals—it was just that good. We savored the views, meals, comfortable room, and hotel-cat sightings with equal delight. The service was warm and friendly, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel special—I had noted in my reservation that we were celebrating my partner's birthday and in addition to our fabulous multi-course dinner one night, they baked a special birthday cake in advance (unexpected and so good!). We loved the daily breakfasts too, and I'm still thinking about their passion fruit dessert with banana ice cream six months later... would love to come back someday!

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.

We had the most wonderful experience at Socalco Nature. The staff could not do enough to help and they obviously both are extremely well trained and take immense pride in their hotel. The dining was outstanding - for dinner you can order 3,4 or 6 courses and they bring you meat, fish or other meal you have requested. Always exquisite and such reasonable prices. Our room - Villa Boal -was spacious with a large entrance room, private bathroom and very large & comfortable bed. |All the staff were extremely good and there was a very relaxed yet professional feel to the place. Madeira's contemporary art museum is 15 minutes away (walking) up the hill, and the beach at Calheta 15 minutes walking downhill. We had several lovely swims - warm enough even in February - and stopped for coffee or drinks at the lovely waterside bars now and then. We also enjoyed the Arumbar (rum bar!) just under the hotel. |If you need a charming, completely relaxing holiday with beautiful food, most brilliantly served, go here. I've been telling all my friends about it back in the UK!

We weren't staying at Socalco this time although we have in the past and as always it was just perfect ! We attended an evening where they served traditional Portuguese food out on the terrace accompanied with local drinks (Poncha, Sangria and wine). Everything was perfect from start to finish. Nelia and her team are just great. You can see how much they enjoy working together and that makes the experience so enjoyable for the guests. You feel so much at home. Complete class, Nelia ! Keep it up.

A hidden gem on Madeira! Our experience at Socalco Nature Hotel & Restaurant was absolutely incredible. From the moment we arrived, we didn’t feel like tourists but like truly welcomed guests. The hospitality of the staff is unmatched and deeply genuine. What inspired us the most was the entire concept: sustainability, authenticity, and a strong connection with the environment. Almost all ingredients come from their own land or local producers. We were even invited to step into the open kitchen and cook alongside the chefs—an unforgettable and heartwarming experience. The beautifully designed rooms, the breathtaking views, and the attention to every detail complete the story. This is not just a hotel; it’s a place that makes the world a little more beautiful and whole. We will definitely be back!

If I could give this stay a 6/5 starts, I would. My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon and were greeted by the warmest staff, the homiest environment, and the most delicious food. Every person who works here cares, and you feel that for your entire stay. I highly recommend staying here and know that we already plan to return. Book your stay now!

We were warmly welcomed to this hotel by friendly and accommodating staff, and were told our room had been upgraded. Our room was beautiful (#5), nestled in the vineyards looking out onto the sea with a feature wall inside looking into lit up cave - the most unique room we’ve ever stayed in! The breakfast was the best hotel breakfast we had ever experienced. 95% of the vegetables are grown on site and every dish was delicious. We also had a 3 course dinner at the hotel one evening which was really special. Would recommend this hotel for anyone wanting to experience pure relaxation in a peaceful and scenic setting.

This is a reasonable bed and breakfast type place trying to be an upmarket "organic" boutique hotel with expansive views. We had a special rate of around €130/night for a room in the main house in the off-season. Most of the rooms are in a constructed stone outer building, that have small gardens and large windows - I can't comment on those. However our room was very basic (no hooks in the bathroom for towels, no comfortable chair) and had a strong septic smell, emanating from the drains in the bathroom, probably due to the plumbing not being vented properly. Do not stay in #2. They said they are unaware of this odor, but it's so overpowering that I doubt this possibility. (Probably we got #2 due to having a cheaper rate?) |The hotel hosts a gourmet "tasting" restaurant that you are encouraged to patronize, which we did. Food was tasty, and the breakfast is very good, but the 2 dish dinner plus dessert for two (+ small glass of wine, 1 beer) will set you back around €130, which is expensive for the size of the portions. The wait staff and chef are very friendly and service is generally good, excepting the condition of our room.|Overall we found Socalco to be over-priced and a bit pretentious for the level of comfort. You are basically paying for the views and the ability to dine in an upmarket restaurant.