Villa Andrada

The island of Maderia is found off the coast of Africa surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The island is 35 miles long and 13 miles wide and benefits from a mild year-round climate, making it a popular holiday destination.

Villa Andrada is located in the small area of Lugar de Baixo around 2 km east of Ponta do Sol. Found on Madeira's south coast, it is rumoured that this town received more sunshine than anywhere else on the island thanks to its name, which translated into English is 'Sun Point'. Ponta do Sol has historically been a fishing village and today is home to a number of seafood restaurants serving the catch of the day, from muscles to Madeira's famed Espada or black scabbardfish. The town's beach Praia da Ponta do Sol is home to deep black shores thanks to the Madeira's volcanic rock, making going to the beach a somewhat unique experience!

Around a 30-minute drive east of Ponta do Sol you will arrive at Funchal, Madeira's capital city. One of the most popular historical attractions found in the city's Old Town is the Cathedral of Funchal. The cathedral was built during the 16th Century as a symbol of Portuguese power and prosperity. In particular, the altarpiece at the cathedral is simply stunning; with gilt woodwork, small sculptures and oil painting, it really is a sight to behold.

The cable car running up Funchal's hillside is another popular activity in the city and offers a unique perspective on the city from above. Once you have reached the top and admired the magnificent views, you can visit the Monte Gardens with its gorgeous ornamental gardens. You can, of course, take the cable car back down, but if you are after a more exhilarating experience then take a toboggan ride back down the hill. Guided by two men, these rides offer a fast way to fly down the hillside and certainly gets the adrenaline pumping!

Driving west along the coast from Villa Andrada, you will find the town of Ponta do Pargo. Known for its striking high cliffs and strategically positioned lighthouse, this majestic town is a beautiful place to visit. From the town, you can take a walk inland along various paths that will lead you to Gardanta Funda Waterfall. The waterfall is simply stunning and offers a wonderful viewpoint from which visitors can admire the views of the surrounding cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

Read more about Calheta

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 >>