Two major highlights - one from the world of arts and the other from gastronomy - mark the official opening of the festive season this December at Reid’s Palace, a Belmond Hotel.
From 1 December to 6 January, Afternoon Tea will feature a special edition created by pastry chef António Morgado in collaboration with Benoit Blin, the renowned French chef from Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons and The Cadogan, also known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
The recently opened Tea Library, which extends the hotel’s Afternoon Tea service, is also introducing three limited-edition cakes designed by Benoit Blin and available for takeaway. Among the new offerings are creations designed to enhance the Christmas tables of both guests and visitors, with particular emphasis on the pistachio and raspberry cake.
For the first time in 134 years, the traditional Reid’s Palace Christmas tree will carry the signature of a Portuguese textile artist. Vanessa Barragão, recognised internationally for her sustainable work with textile waste, is responsible for the centrepiece of the hotel’s festive décor in 2025.
The piece, which will be on display in the lobby throughout the season, features shades of red, gold and green, aligning with natural decorations inspired by Madeiran traditions. These include the emblematic “Manhãs-de-Páscoa”, known worldwide as Christmas Strelitzias and widely used during the Madeiran festive period.
The official inauguration of the tree will take place on 7 December, in an event attended by the artist. Guests will have the opportunity to learn more about the creative process and sample exclusive pastries from the Tea Library, accompanied by the special Christmas cocktail menu from the 1891 Bar.
Reid’s Palace has once again prepared a Christmas and New Year programme focused on refined dining and seasonal traditions.
On Christmas Eve, guests are invited to a Festive Gala Dinner in the historic The Dining Room. Christmas Day lunch will be served at the Pool Terrace restaurant, featuring live music and views over the Atlantic.
On 30 December, the Madeiran tradition of the “Eve of the Eve” will be observed with a Gala Dinner that begins with a cocktail in the lobby and continues with an evening of fine dining in The Dining Room, accompanied by live music and followed by festivities at the 1891 Bar.
The New Year’s Eve celebration aims to transport guests back to the Roaring Twenties. The Dining Room will host a jazz-themed evening with a six-course dinner and live band. At midnight, guests will be able to watch Funchal’s iconic fireworks display, followed by a DJ set to welcome the New Year in a festive atmosphere.
The William restaurant, awarded one Michelin star, and the Villa Cipriani will also host special dinners, both offering privileged views of the fireworks that illuminate Funchal Bay.
