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Vila Gale Santa Cruz

Rua Sao Fernando 5, Santa Cruz, Madeira 9100-173 Portugal
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Traveller (1249)
Room & Suite (263)
Pool & Beach (245)

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About

#2 of 5 hotels in Santa Cruz
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
This beach hotel in Santa Cruz (Madeira) is situated directly beside the sea. Funchal is just 15 minutes away, while Funchal airport is only 5 minutes from the hotel. The promenade and the aqua park are also nearby. There are also stony and pebble beaches in the area. The hotel, which was built in 2006, has a total of 262 room on 4 floors, where we feature 4 junior suites suitable for families. The hotel offers a fully air-conditioned environment with spacious lobby, lifts, 24-hour reception, hotel safe, three bars, two restaurants and parking facilities. It has congress centre (890 m²), room and laundry services, as well as a kids club and games room. All rooms with en suite bathroom, balcony, air conditioning, individually adjustable central heating, direct dial phone, clock, satellite TV, CD / DVD player, radio, safe deposit box, hair-dryer, fax / modem connection, minibar, electronic security lock and 24 hour-room service. It offers an outdoor swimming pool for adults and children, indoor swimming pool (for a fee) and spa facilities with Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room / Turkish bath, Vichy room, a gym, studio for classes, 4 massage and treatments rooms, physician's office. The nearest golf course is only 10 minutes away and the hotel provides a golf desk and clubs closet. A breakfast buffet is served each morning. Lunch and dinner may be eaten from a buffet or a la carte. The following are all accepted as methods of payment: American Express, MasterCard and VISA. There is a transfer service to Funchal available.
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Property amenities
Paid private parking on-site
Free internet
Pool
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Beach
Evening entertainment
Business Centre with Internet Access
Parking
Wifi
Hot bath
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Indoor pool
Outdoor pool
Heated pool
Fitness / spa changing rooms
Sauna
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Snack bar
Poolside bar
Table tennis
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Spa
Facial treatments
Foot massage
Full body massage
Massage
Salon
Steam room
Baggage storage
Concierge
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun umbrellas
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Minibar
Flatscreen TV
Room types
Ocean view
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Great View
Ocean View
Languages Spoken
English, French, Spanish, Portuguese

Location

Rua Sao Fernando 5, Santa Cruz, Madeira 9100-173 Portugal
Name/address in local language
Vila Gale Santa Cruz
1,544Review133Q+A100Room tips

Reviews
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deegeeEngland wrote a review 5 Mar
england70 contributions96 helpful votes
Travelled with my husband and adult son, 2 rooms, one week all inclusive and had a fabulous time. We chose this hotel as we wanted a short transfer from the airport, and it didn't disappoint! Even the shuttle transfer only took 10 minutes, 5 minutes by car. We had an early flight, rooms are available from 3pm , but after a quick check in at reception we were invited to have lunch and then call back to see if our rooms were ready... we waited a short time, but by 2pm we had both rooms available... the staff throughout the whole week were friendly and efficient. Rooms: We had a sea view, beds were comfortable (although a bit squeaky due to mattress protectors) , air conditioning worked great, TV channels fine with some films available, wifii good, mini bar (chargeable) we didn't use. A free safe, no kettle in the room (we took our own) but apparently available if you ask. Pool: indoor pool and spa (we didn't use) Outdoor pool cold, but fabulous! Towels available on all inclusive, just ask at the Spa or reception. Transport: We booked the hotel's free shuttle into Funchal which leaves at 10 and comes back at 5.30pm... book early so you don't miss out , it's a mini bus so spaces are limited. Having said that - the buses are frequent and reception were really helpful and provided us with a bus timetable... In the opposite direction Machico is lovely with a manmade sandy beach and some nice bars and bakeries, 12 euros by taxi and about 3 euros on the bus. All Inclusive option/ food: I would say that AI guests were in the minority.. lots of different nationalities (which we loved) Lots of cabin crew staying too, a real variety of guests..... in some ways it felt like a conference hotel, but worth it's 4 stars... we enjoyed the food. One A la Carte meal per 7 days on all inclusive and it was really good! Be sure to book early, although off season, we didn't have a problem. You get a menu and select your choice the day before... excellent! Drinks were of high quality.. one cocktail 'special' per day , plus beer ,wine, local spirits etc... Lunch time we preferred the snack bar... hot dogs, salads ,toasties , fries etc.. all inclusive cake or ice cream including magnums, Cornettos etc! A shout out to all of the bar and restaurant staff, and the reception too! Sandra in the restaurant... always a smile and a chat, made our day! Entertainment: Not a lot going on during the day, which suited us just fine, live entertainment most night's which we enjoyed. Other: We hired a car from reception.. there is a car rental close to the hotel, which might be cheaper, but for ease and peace of mind booked from the hotel... delivered to the underground carpark (7 euros per night to park) and left there afterwards. Area: We really loved Santa Cruz, as we like traditional and quiet.. there isn't a lot there, just a few restaurant's and bars, but it has a lovely atmosphere in spite of the air traffic. We had a visit to the local dentist unfortunately, the service was fantastic and not expensive! Madeira: Second visit to Madeira in 6 months, lots to see, loved Funchal, the walks, the rock pools, and we will be back... Vila Gale, thanks for making our holiday a lovely one! x
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Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Guest, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Ilovetobeonholiday wrote a review Feb 2024
Epping, United Kingdom89 contributions115 helpful votes
Used as an overnight stop before a flight as the hotel is so near the airport and yet it's right onto a stony beach in a charming small town. It has parking in a large basement car park at 7 euros for 24 hours. Rooms are a bit dated but comfortable and clean . Many have a view over the big swimming pools to the sea. Food is all buffet style but it's plentiful and varied. It was extremely busy owing to the airport closing due to high winds . The hotel was looking after lots of people being bussed in because their flight was delayed massively. I would have preferred a quieter dining room. The hotel has been really helpful with an item we left behind , truly magnificent receptionists. They make such a difference.
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: The sea view is worthwhile
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear Guest, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Mike M wrote a review Feb 2024
1 contribution
Generally ok and mostly friendly staff. Had to wait in the bar frequently due to staff doing other things. The all inclusive stopped immediately after we checked out, even though we had to wait for our coach to the airport. We arrived much later than our check-in time, so we didn't fully use the all inclusive on our first day. Which is a bit unfair.
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Mike, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Victor A wrote a review Feb 2024
2 contributions
We had a great holiday from start to finish. Jet2 Holiday and staff were friendly and organised. They provided adequate information. There was a slight delay on our return but I believe it was not the fault of Jet2. I will use them again and I also recommend Jet2.
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Review collected in partnership with Jet2holidays
Date of stay: January 2024
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Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 5 weeks ago
Dear victoria, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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emillieLiverpool wrote a review Feb 2024
Southport, United Kingdom61 contributions2 helpful votes
No entertainment day or night. Food was awful, I was sick 2 nights in a row after eating in the restaurant. Steak was chewy, 15 minute queue for eggs/ omelette ended up with just bread and cheese for my meals. The staff were very slow clearing the tables and also serving the drinks. Not sure how they are going to cope when the hotel gets busy. I would not recommend this hotel at all unless you eat out. I would definitely look elsewhere
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Avoid this hotel or go self catering as food is awful
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 11 Feb 2024
Dear emillie, Thank you for your comments. We apologize if we couldn't be up to some of your expectations but let us express our gratitude by thanking you for sharing your comments with us. Your comments are an important tool and only help us to continue our constant pursuit of service improvement by solving those and continue trying to exceed expectations. On our own behalf and on that of the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel team, we hope we have the honour of hosting you again in a near future. Kind regards Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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VS14MM wrote a review Feb 2024
Melton Mowbray, United Kingdom2 contributions7 helpful votes
We had a good flight from the UK but the last time we saw a Jet2 rep was directing us to our transfer bus. On arriving at the hotel we were a bit horrified to find scaffolding up and lots of drilling noises going on, our hearts sunk. Luckily our rooms were on the other side of the hotel and we couldn't hear any noise. The staff at the hotel were brilliant and the hotel itself was definitely 4+ star. Food was buffet style and generally good, although not always very hot and we sometimes struggled to find an appealing main dish at the evening meal. We were travelling out of season and were happy with how quiet it was. The only complaint really was that there was not an information board or folder from Jet2 at the hotel reception. There is no tourist information centre in the resort either so we just had our phones to explore the area. On previous holidays it has been nice to learn a few local phrases and see a map of the area. None of this was available. We even asked at reception but were told, as the resort is so small, there are no maps available. We had a great day out in Funchal using the free hotel courtesy bus. Some Brits we talked to were a bit bored in the resort but we found it relaxing and were happy to chill by the pool with our books. We used the heated indoor pool a couple of times which was also nice. Overall it was the relaxing holiday we hoped for, with great service from the staff.
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 5 Feb 2024
Dear Paradise, It sounds like you had a mixed experience during your holiday, but overall, it seems to have been relaxing and enjoyable. Overall, it seems like you were able to make the most of your holiday despite some minor inconveniences. Your feedback provides valuable insights for both the hotel and the travel company regarding areas for improvement, particularly in terms of providing information and enhancing the dining experience. If you plan to return or explore new destinations in the future, it might be helpful to communicate these suggestions directly to the relevant parties for a more enriched travel experience. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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dippydraws wrote a review Jan 2024
Tamworth, United Kingdom19 contributions19 helpful votes
A lovely hotel in a great location, near the beach and local amenities. Close to the airport so a short transfer. Hotel was undergoing maintenance work on my arrival, which I wasn't expecting. The hotel entrance could use a ramp to gain access. Room was big, plenty of storage and large bathroom with a bath. My view was derelict buildings as I was situated at the rear away from renovations. Breakfast was nice with plenty of choice but dinner wasn't as good. A lounge bar serves reasonably priced drinks. The spa was a bonus although the wearing of a swimming hat was required for women despite long haired, bearded men using the indoor pool. During my stay I enjoyed the benefit of some winter sunshine. Total relaxation.
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip: I would consider bed and breakfast if I stayed again. There are traditional restaurants nearby....
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 30 Jan 2024
Dear Dippydraws; It sounds like you had a mixed experience at the hotel, with both positive and some areas that could be improved. It's great to hear that your room was spacious with ample storage and a large bathroom featuring a bath, providing comfort and convenience during your stay. Best regards Luis Caldeira General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Heather B wrote a review Oct 2023
3 contributions5 helpful votes
We visited The Vila Gale in Santa Cruz earlier this month and had one of the most wonderful and relaxing holidays ever.... We were a little nervous before we went as there were a couple of negative reviews which were quite concerning, all we can say is please please just ignore them...in fact we were laughing with fellow guests just how ridiculous they were. The hotel itself is spotless, the staff are all without exception friendly, competent and extremely hard working... special mention to Christina and Katrina on reception, Sandra, Louisa and the lady with the big smile in the Restaurant and pool bar and Catrina in the Spa who helped make our holiday special as did all the staff.. The food in the restaurant was excellent, I am vegetarian and was never stuck for something to eat...yes, not everything is labelled but all you do is ask and the staff will advise...If you are staying for 7 days or over you can visit the Al a Carte restaurant....we definitely recommend! The spa and it's facilities again are spotless, you have to wear a swimming cap in the indoor pool but you can buy one from the hotel if you don't have one. Sandra Cruz is a beautiful quiet location with little shops and restaurants...all on the doorstep... We never go back to the same place twice but there is always a first..,we have booked a cheeky little week back there next month and are so looking forward to our visit
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Vila Galé Hotéis , General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 29 Oct 2023
Dear heatherbD5137UF, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel and team. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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LyndaPC2000 wrote a review Oct 2023
Majorca, Spain8 contributions24 helpful votes
I had one of the best holidays I have ever had here in Vila Gale Santa Cruz, Madeira. First time to Maderia and I loved it, very beautiful. Santa Cruz is a lovely little town, very quiet and peaceful. Hotel was wonderful. I requested a quiet room and got what I requested. The rooms and corridors are all carpeted which I think cuts down on noise ignorant people trotting about with high heels on in corridors and rooms on tiled floors! Age group and nationalities at the hotel were very varied. I was on my own and did not feel out of place at all, there seemed to be quite a few other solos. Room had everything you would need, good shower and bathroom also. I was all inclusive, food was good, drinks also. Only thing I could perhaps say is there wasn't an awful lot of choice of food at the buffet, but what I had was always good. I ate in the a la carte restaurant once during the week and the food was amazing. Snacks also during the day were huge and good. Evening entertainment was laid on some nights, which was also good. Particularly liked the folklore evening with the music and dancing typical to Madeira. Pool area and pool were wonderful, very big and spacious and always could get a sun bed. The spa facilities were fantastic, nice big pool and also the other things such as jacuzzi, steam room, sauna. Staff were always smiling and happy. Location for me was fab, 5 minutes from airport, planes were flying overhead of the hotel but were not a problem at all. Only thing I would say is PLEASE PLEASE make this hotel ADULTS ONLY, that would be the icing on the cake for me!
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Lucas Aragão, General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 15 Oct 2023
Dear LyndaPC2000, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel and team. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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AnnabelFW wrote a review Sept 2023
Solihull, United Kingdom20 contributions14 helpful votes
We wondered whether being five minutes away from the airport might be a noisy issue but it wasnt. We loved everything about this hotel - the food, drinks, location and pool. The entertainment was better than I have seen in a lot of other hotels. We booked two TUI day trips and the reps were very knowledgable. Such a beautiful island. Thank you.
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Lucas Aragão, General Manager at Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Responded 28 Sept 2023
Dear Annabel, Thank you very much for choosing the Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel for your stay in Madeira Island. We were very pleased to read your message about our hotel and team. Your comments are very valuable for us and for our future guests. We look forward to having you back again! Yours faithfully, Luis Caldeira (General Manager)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
£101 - £156 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
vila gale santa cruz hotel santa cruz, vila gale hotel santa cruz, santa cruz vila gale, vila gale madeira
LOCATION
PortugalMadeira IslandsMadeiraSanta Cruz
NUMBER OF ROOMS
262
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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VILA GALE SANTA CRUZ - Updated 2024 Reviews (Portugal)

Frequently Asked Questions about Vila Gale Santa Cruz
Which popular attractions are close to Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Nearby attractions include São Salvador Church (0.1 miles), Municipal Market of Santa Cruz (0.09 miles), and Aquaparque Madeira (0.4 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Yes, paid private parking on-site is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Conveniently located restaurants include Taberna do Petisco, Adega Moniz, and Restaurante Do Dia Pra Noite.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a sauna during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Vila Gale Santa Cruz offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business centre, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese.
Are there any historical sites close to Vila Gale Santa Cruz?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Aqueduto De Machico (2.9 miles), Cais de Machico (2.9 miles), and Forte Dos Reis Magos (3.7 miles).