Villa Achada

Sitio Ladeira das Voltasis a small traditional village with several restaurants, cafes and shops sits on the hillside on the outskirts of Calheta surrounded by banana plantations and vineyards. This particular part of the coastline is formed like a natural amphitheatre and seems to have a microclimate all of its own, with lots of sunshine and warmer temperatures. It is also perfectly placed with easy access across the island as one of the main routes to the west is only a short distance away.  

Because of its volcanic origins only around one third of the land mass of Madeira is inhabited, and most of that is of course around the coast meaning you are never too far from the next village or small town. Calheta heading towards the north of the island is the main centre for sugar cane production, the exquisite Engenho da Calheta, one of the island’s two surviving sugar mills is now a museum, the mill uses locally produced sugar cane to make honey and a potent firewater known as aguardente from distilled cane syrup.

There is a man made beach here in Calheta but a much better experience can be had at Porto Moniz, a charming little town on the north west tip of the island, the main attraction here is the natural swimming pools, incredible lava rock tidal pools where you can swim, explore and snorkel.  If you are confident in the water on a calm day there is much to explore underwater on the seaward side of the natural pools.  Another thrill for the experienced swimmer is the 3m high diving board from the natural pools into the ocean.  

Walking in Madeira is a thoroughly unique experience, there are many trails marked along the Levadas which run along the mountainside.  These man made waterways were built as an irrigation system for the plantations nearer the coast.  There are some 860 miles of these, incredible on an island only 35 miles long, the walking is as spectacular as it is varied.

A trip to the Funchal, the capitol of the island is a must, a beautiful, vibrant city with a very laid back atmosphere. The Madeiran people are so proud of their small island whatever you do whether it be shopping, eating or visiting some of the fabulous church building you are assured of a very warm and courteous reception. One particularly special thing to do is to take the cable car from the old town up to the hillside village of Monte. From here the views are spectacular, and the trip back down will be the most fun you will have had all day. Climb into a wicker basket driven by two carreiros and scream to your hearts content as they hurtle you down through the cobbled streets in half the time it took to go up.     

Eating out all along this east coast is an absolute delight, the fish and fruit in particular so fresh, and the cooking style very adventurous, one of the (delicious) specialities being scabbard fish with banana!

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!

Download our Madeira travel guide >>