As you step into Villa Abobora, you’re immediately met with a sense of calm and quiet elegance. Bathed in natural light, the open-plan living space is airy and welcoming, with vast windows that frame the breathtaking vistas of Madeira’s coastline and the lush, rolling mountains. The living and dining areas flow effortlessly into a sleek, fully equipped kitchen, where a spacious island invites you to gather, cook, and share meals. All on one level, the villa features three en-suite bedrooms—two doubles and a twin—each offering privacy and comfort, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring the island.
Outside, the terrace is where days stretch lazily beneath the sun. The private pool sparkles invitingly, surrounded by sun loungers, a barbecue area, and an outdoor dining spot where evenings linger with sea views and warm breezes. The gardens are simple yet charming, a green backdrop to your island retreat.
Tucked away in the hills of Ribeira Brava, just a short drive from the town centre, Villa Abobora offers peaceful seclusion with the ocean always in sight. With a games room, laundry facilities, and thoughtful touches throughout, this is a place that feels like your own corner of Madeira.
What Oliver loves...
Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding mountains right into the heart of the home.
A private pool and sun-soaked terrace offer the perfect spot to relax, dine, and soak in the views.
The charming town of Ribeira Brava, with its seaside promenade, historic church, and local eateries, is just a short drive away.
A spacious games room, outdoor barbecue area, and modern kitchen make entertaining effortless and enjoyable.
What you should know
All bedrooms and the main living area are located on one level, but there are steps leading down to the garage and games room.
Insects and other small creatures are a natural part of the tropical environment, particularly in the warmer months.
The sofa bed in the games room is available upon request and may be more suitable for children or shorter stays.
Meticulously selected. Rigorously approved. Our experts have reviewed over 100,000 holiday homes; only the very best make it into our collection.
4.7/5 Rated Excellent
Voted one of the Best Villa Rental Companies in the World by Condé Nast Traveller readers for nine years running.
As seen in:
Loading reviews...
The Local Area
About the surrounding area of Villa Abobora
Seaview
Outstanding Landscapes
Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
Perched in the hills above the coastal town of Ribeira Brava, Villa Abobora enjoys a privileged spot that offers both peace and convenience. Just a ten-minute drive brings you to the heart of town, where you’ll find cafés, restaurants, shops, and a lovely seafront promenade perfect for evening strolls. Ribeira Brava itself is rich in history—its name, meaning "wild river," refers to the once fast-flowing stream that runs through the valley.
The town is home to the 16th-century Church of São Bento, a beautiful example of Madeiran religious architecture, and the local Ethnographic Museum gives insight into the island’s traditional way of life. Outdoor lovers can explore nearby levada walks and coastal paths, while the black sand beach is ideal for a relaxed swim or a bit of sunbathing. Whether you're after nature, culture, or a simple espresso by the sea, Ribeira Brava offers a taste of authentic Madeira just moments from your door.
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.
The Region
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!
