The Resort

The Palheiro estate was bought by João Esmeraldo, the first Count of Carvalhal, in 1801, more than 200 years ago. Conceived as a hunting estate and summer residence, the first Count imported and planted exotic trees and plants from around the world to stock his extensive gardens and built levadas (irrigation channels) to ensure a water supply. Legend has it that some tree specimens were gifts from Dom João VI, King of Portugal, and various sailing ship masters.

John Burden Blandy purchased the estate in 1885 and built a family home on the site of Casa da Francesca, the home of the second Count’s French mistress. This has remained a Blandy family home ever since.

In 1993, the 18 hole, par 72 Palheiro Golf course opened, designed by the American golf architect Cabell Robinson, and set in what was once the Count’s hunting grounds.

In the late 1990s, the hunting lodge created by the first Count was transformed into the five-star Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro, opening for guests in 1997. In 2009 the facilities were extended with the addition of the Palheiro Spa. Adjacent to the fifth hole of the golf course, the hotel and spa attracts golf, garden and sun seeking enthusiasts from around the world. The hotel became a member of Relais & Chateaux in 2001.

In addition to all the leisure and sporting opportunities on Madeira, Palheiro owners enjoy luxury accommodation, fine eating, sporting and leisure activities that together form an appealing international resort destination.