With temperatures that never drop below 19ºC, it is no surprise that Madeira has become an ever-popular holiday spot for travellers from all over the world! Found some several hundred kilometres west of the African coast, Madeira is a stunning mountainous emerald island bordered by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Madeira was the first island to be discovered by Portuguese navigators in 1419 and quickly became an important resting place on the long trip to the new world. From these humble beginnings, now the culture, history, stunning nature and the array of sea and land activities draw visitors in as a destination for holidays.
Moradia Canhas sits atop a high point on the Madeira coast near Ponta do Sol, with views that stretch out across both the sea and countryside. The town of Ponta do Sol, four kilometres from the villa, is one of the oldest towns in Madeira. Small, winding pedestrianised streets weave around this picturesque town towards the seafront, with trendy bars and cafes creating perfect stop-offs along the way. Nearby the village of Canhas offers a larger supermarket, cafes, and a pizzeria, as well as a pharmacy and bank within two kilometres.
For convenience, the airport is only a 40-minute drive away, and Madeira’s capital, Funchal, is an easy 30-minute drive along the Expressway and Motorway. Whilst most of the villas in Madeira require a car to access them, this stylish property is accessible without one. However, there is still plenty of room for two cars at the villa, and it does make it easier to explore all the wonders on this emerald Isle!
Whether you are visiting for the warm climate and beautiful beaches, for the rich culture and history of the fabulous outdoor activities and natural sights, there is so much to see and do in Madeira. The foodie scene gets better and better with an amazing array of eateries and restaurants, serving everything from relaxed family meals to fine dining.
Getting to and around
Please be aware that the location tab shown on the website is not based on the property's exact location; therefore, all location amenities are an approx of facilities, restaurants, and villages/towns you might find around the property. The property's exact location will be provided to you before arrival and might come along with some recommendations about the area and what to visit. Calheta, meaning ‘Small Cove’, is where many tourists flock to in order to indulge in beautiful man-made beaches and striking scenery.
This part of Madeira is formed of several municipalities, each with something unique and special to offer. Calheta Village is an ideal place to start especially if you enjoy a stiff drink! An old sugar cane factory still produces one of the world’s most respected white rums – Aguardente…perhaps you want to leave this part of your holiday till late in the evening!
Jardim do Mar is where you will find many of the locals on dawn patrol, taking to the waves and surfing. The waters can both be heavy and flat, making them ideal for abilities of surfer. Akaw!
For lovers of seafood, you should look no further than Paul do Mar. This is a village where most of the fisherman work out of, so you know you’ll be able to find the catch of the day here.
For those who have travelled to Madeira for its inland beauty, then look no further than Arco da Calheta and Prazeres. Within these locations you won’t only be able find some stunning hiking trails, but you’re also likely to stumble across some traditionally styled Parishes and unforgettable views.
ABOUT MADEIRA
The island of Madeira can be found south west of mainland Portugal, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the island’s location, its is considered to have a Mediterranean climate that serves locals and visitors all year round – making it an ideal escape from reality at any point in the year.
What we love Madeira for is its seemingly ongoing festivals! Madeirans have found an excuse to celebrate most things; including film, their natural surroundings and key patron saints. This means that planning a visit during these days and even weeks of commemoration is well worth it (scroll down to see some key dates).
Madeira is divided into several municipals, each with a special offering to those who visit this island. Our favourite two communities are Funchal and Calheta and these are where you will find most of our beautiful villas.
Madeira’s landscape extends much more than a striking coastline. Make sure you pack some hiking boots and venture inland during your stay. With mountainous trails along Vereda do Arieiro, or more countryside appropriate paths like Levada do Risco and waterfall chasing treks like Levada do Caldeirao Verde – this archipelago has everything a keen outdoors person requires.
For those who enjoy either playing or watching sports, you’ll be happy to know Madeira offers so much selection. Madeira is also home to three notable football clubs, so if you’re visiting during the football season and want to see a good quality of football, you have every chance to. Porto Santo Golfe is the island’s renowned golf course. With an 18-hole course (Par 72) overlooking a Galapagos-like backdrop, golf enthusiasts will certainly want a ‘slice’ of the action! Surfers can access some great beaches like Jardim do Mar, Ponta Pequena, Paul do Mar, and Fajã da Ovelha in order to find some swell. Or, if you’re simply looking to recline on a sun lounger and soak up some rays, whilst listening to crystal clear waves break as they hit the shores, you will find plenty of man-made beaches & Lidos created for your leisure!
With a superb climate, close proximity to the coastline, wonderful cuisine, charming locals and astonishing scenery – this is a fabulous holiday choice for families & friends.
But while you're enjoying one of our fantastic villas in Madeira, you may well want to take some time out from all that sun worship to explore everything else the region has to offer – so we've put together this handy travel guide to give you a little help and inspiration!
