An oceanfront spa at the VidaMar Resort combining a thalassotherapy pool with jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath alongside three saltwater infinity pools overlooking the Atlantic, plus a full menu of health and beauty treatments.
VidaMar Thalasso Sea Spa sits within the VidaMar Resort on Funchal's Estrada Monumental strip, built around thalassotherapy, the use of heated seawater for circulation and relaxation benefits, which is the centre's defining regional specialty on an island surrounded by Atlantic water. The signature facility is a thalassotherapy pool circuit combining jet stations, a jacuzzi, and contrast-temperature areas, paired with a traditional Turkish bath (hammam) and a Finnish-style sauna. Beyond the water circuit, the treatment menu includes massage (relaxing, deep-tissue and marine-mineral variants), facials, and body treatments that use seaweed and marine-derived products in keeping with the thalasso concept. Therapists are trained in hydrotherapy protocols specific to thalassotherapy centres, distinct from a standard hotel spa, and the centre draws both resort guests and outside visitors for its water-based facilities. The resort's three saltwater infinity pools, set along the oceanfront and visually merging with the Atlantic horizon, function as an extension of the wellness offering even though they sit outside the spa proper. Access to the thalassotherapy circuit is typically sold as a session or package with a set duration, while individual treatments are booked by appointment; walk-in treatment slots are limited, so reservations are advised, particularly for weekend afternoons when resort occupancy is highest.
| Price | €60–€180 / $65–$194 per treatment |
|---|---|
| Session length | 40–80 minutes per treatment |
| Hours | 8AM–8PM daily |
| Address | Estrada Monumental 175, 9000-100 Funchal |
Treatments
- Thalassotherapy pool circuit
- Massage
- Sauna and Turkish bath
- Contrast shower therapy
Weather through the year in Madeira
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Madeira.
Location
Estrada Monumental 175, 9000-100 Funchal
32.6425, -16.9280 View on map
Highlights
- Dedicated thalassotherapy pool circuit using heated seawater
- Traditional Turkish bath and Finnish-style sauna
- Three saltwater infinity pools overlooking the Atlantic
- Seaweed and marine-mineral body treatments
- Contrast shower therapy stations
Tips for visiting
- Book the thalassotherapy circuit as a timed session rather than expecting open walk-in access
- Bring a swimsuit for the pool circuit even when booking a separate massage or facial
- Weekend afternoons are busiest; weekday mornings offer quieter pool sessions
- Alternate hot (sauna, Turkish bath) and cool (contrast showers) stations gradually rather than all at once
- A 10% tip for therapists is appreciated but not compulsory
Frequently asked questions
What is thalassotherapy?
Thalassotherapy is the therapeutic use of heated seawater, seaweed and marine minerals, delivered here through a dedicated pool circuit, jet stations and marine-based treatments.
Do I need to be a hotel guest to use the spa?
Outside visitors can generally book the thalassotherapy circuit and treatments with advance reservation, though resort guests may receive scheduling priority.
Is the Turkish bath mixed or separated by gender?
Details vary by session; visitors should confirm current hours and any gender-specific sessions when booking, as these can change seasonally.
How long does a thalassotherapy session last?
Sessions are typically sold in fixed time blocks of around 45 minutes to an hour, distinct from individual massage or facial appointments.