South Coast
South Coast: From Historic Heights to Hidden Harbours
The South Coast region offers a captivating blend of dramatic, historical valleys and charming seaside towns. Head to Câmara de Lobos, the picturesque harbour town where Sir Winston Churchill famously found the peace and quiet he sought for painting.
The Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras
Explore the region’s most popular natural feature: the impressive, cauldron-like \bm{Curral} \bm{das}\bm{Freiras}. You can observe this valley, nestled deep in the island’s centre, from the stunning panoramic platform at Eira do Serrado. For the adventurous, follow a steep but fascinating trail down to the village itself. This route offers a unique insight into why the nuns retreated here in 1566 to escape the pirates attacking Funchal.
Heights and HandicraftsDon’t miss a visit to Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Experience the thrill of standing on the glass-bottomed Skywalk platform, offering dizzying views down to the ocean. To explore Madeira’s traditional culture, head east to Camacha, the centre of wicker craftsmanship, where you can still watch local artisans skillfully creating baskets and even handmade furniture.
If you prefer a more peaceful and relaxing day out, the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos is the perfect outing. Explore its little squares and alleyways, or admire the picturesque harbour that so enchanted Winston Churchill that he often set up his easel right here.
Moving west, Southwest Madeira is famed for its cluster of pretty fishing villages and spectacular, seemingly never-ending sunsets over the Atlantic.
Head inland, and the West’s wooded ridges and ravines reveal seriously fun mountain biking trails waiting to be discovered.
For those seeking a historic challenge with incredible views, try the walk down the cliff steps from Prazeres to Paul do Mar. This is one of the oldest and steepest paths on Madeira—a serious test for those with a good head for heights and a strong pair of legs. At one time, this epic route was the only means of access to the remote fishing village of Paul do Mar during stormy weather, cementing its place in the island's history.
In contrast to the rugged coastline, the modern town of Calheta in Southwest Madeira serves as a small, upscale holiday resort. This vibrant hub boasts a busy marina, a quality spa hotel, and one of the island's few popular man-made golden beaches.
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Calheta is also home to a piece of history: the "Engenho da Calheta", one of Madeira’s few surviving rum distilleries. While the island is famous for its fortified wines, it also produces exceptional white rum from the abundant sugar cane. This factory is a truly living museum, still employing many of the original 19th-Century production methods today.
Finish your tour at the old lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo. This landmark dramatically marks the geographical point where North Madeira meets South. Standing here, you are treated to awe-inspiring views over the dizzyingly steep sea cliffs, a powerful reminder of the island's raw volcanic geology.