An interview with André Gonçalves, Sales Manager at Sé Boutique Hotel
Part of an archipelago that is closer to Africa than Europe, the island of Madeira is hugely popular with travellers from all over the world. Synonymous with the delicious fortified wine made on the island, Madeira boasts a fascinating history that dates back as over 600 years. Its spectacular mountainous scenery is set against black pebbled beaches, giving way to crystal clear waters, inviting bathers to cool off after a long day exploring. It’s fair to say with a host of natural parks and forests, plus a vibrant cultural scene, Madeira has something for everyone.
The charming capital Funchal makes a popular base for those visiting the island, and it’s here you will find Sé Boutique Hotel. With its welcoming atmosphere, passion for hospitality, and proximity to the historic cathedral, it makes the perfect base for your time on the island. The European caught up with Sales Manager at Sé Boutique Hotel, André Gonçalves
to take a look around.
Describe how Sé Boutique Hotel offers guests a unique Madeiran experience, helping them immerse in the local customs and traditions.
André Gonçalves: Our signature experiences seek to combine our guests’ personal interests with the local culture, creating special, long-lasting memories of their stay with us. For instance, we offer classic car tours around the island, as well as helping to organise hikes, including Levada hikes. A Levada is a watercourse unique to Madeira, they make for easy-to-follow routes as they wind their way through some spectacular scenery. We also love to help our guests embrace our cuisine and culture with special dinner nights, traditional live music, and we even organise Poncha workshops, where you will learn how to make this delicious local drink, and enjoy the Madeiran rum, Aguardente, that gives the drinks its special taste.
The hotel is known for its excellent service and warm hospitality. What lies at the heart of this?
AG: At Sé Boutique Hotel, the true essence of our distinction lies in our dedicated team. Committed
to exceeding expectations, our staff delivers exceptional, tailor-made service with a keen eye for detail. Beyond this, our hotel’s unique décor, inviting atmosphere, and the breathtaking panorama from our rooftop creates an enchanting Madeiran retreat for our guests.
You are a stone’s throw away from the historic cathedral, and we understand the hotel reflects its characteristics – how so?
AG: Our hotel is inspired by the local cathedral’s beautiful tiles, and our design embodies a cosmopolitan spirit with an urban flair, artistically blending Madeiran cultural heritage and traditions. We’ve decorated our rooms and common areas to be luxurious, but with a healthy dose of quirkiness. Art from different eras also graces the common areas, and all of these elements come together to create a home away from home for our guests.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at Sé Boutique Hotel?
AG: All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, wi-fi, a smart TV, a coffee machine, a mini bar, a safe and a hairdryer. Water, tea and coffee are at your disposal in every room, as well as shower gel and body lotion in every bathroom.
Tell us about the culinary experience in the hotel’s restaurants, and also about your famous rooftop bar.
AG: We have two restaurants, each of which offer an unforgettable journey through the flavours of the Mediterranean. Our specialty lies in authentic Portuguese dishes, crafted not just from the finest local produce, but also from the heart.
Every bit as enchanting as the hotel is our rooftop Terrace Bar. With spectacular panoramic views of Funchal, it’s a place where you can absorb the serene mountain scenery and the expansive ocean vista – all while basking in the glow of our celebrated sunset. The bar’s garden-esque decor creates a top-tier cocktail haven, ideal for relaxation and long, lazy evenings. Here, you’ll find an exclusive selection of signature cocktails, alongside champagne, afternoon tea, brunch, appetisers, and dinner.
Finally, please highlight some of the must-see local attractions.
AG: Our hotel’s prime city location, mere minutes from the cathedral, stands as one of our best assets. Guests have the convenience of strolling to all of Funchal’s premier sights, including the charming Old Town, the vibrant farmers’ market, the scenic cable car, and the bustling marina. Additionally, we are surrounded by Funchal’s finest dining, bars, and shopping venues.
Further information
www.seboutiquehotel.com
Main image: Sé Boutique Hotel’s Terrace Bar is overlooked by the historic cathedral
