Villa Brava

Ribeira Brava is a quiet coastal town at the end of the Serra D’Água valley, one of the first parishes to be inhabited according to the island’s history. With its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and the steep valleys on either side many consider it to be the prettiest town in Madeira. The shoreline has many small beaches, cafés and restaurants perfect for days when you would like to try some of the special local dishes rather than cook at the villa. The main local sights are the Forte de São Benta which houses the lighthouse, magnificent views of the coastline can be had from a visit in here. The local church, Igreja de São Bento is such a special building privileged to look after valuable paintings dating back to 16th century, these have a Flemish influence reflecting the trade between Madeira and Europe back then. Staying local you can also join one of the many Levada walks, these man-made irrigation systems cover a distance of some 1350 miles which is quite astounding on an island only 35 miles long. This particular section, Levada Nova to Tabau gives you glimpses of magnificent views, ancient bridges and some of the 16 miles of tunnels that had to be excavated. There are many guided walks for all abilities along the Levadas that you can join should you choose.   

There are so many spectacular spots to visit, drive a little from Villa Brava towards the north west corner of Madeira, Miradouro do Fio has a viewpoint and little restaurant or, carry on a little further to Ponta do Parge where 90° cliffs rise from the sea and you feel as though you have reached the end of the world as there is nothing but ocean until you reach the Americas. The sunsets from here are amazing.

A trip to Funchal the capitol of the island is a must, it has the atmosphere of a small Portuguese town rather than that of a city. Take a wander along the waterfront passing the myriad of cafés and restaurants all offering local food and drink and somewhere to sit a while soaking up the atmosphere and enjoy being on holiday. Once refreshed a trip to the Mercado dos Lavradores is always great fun, lively stall holders trying to get you to spend your hard-earned euro on fruit, veg and fish that you may never have seen before.   There are also many artisan craft stalls and bakers selling the delicious Pastéis de Nata, Portuguese custard tarts, I recommend at least one every day of your holiday.

A trip up to Monte, high on the hillside above Funchal is day out on its own.  The best way to get there is by cable car, gliding silently over the streets and houses of the city as they become smaller and smaller is a thrill and of course the views are breathtaking. Spend time wandering through the magnificent tropical gardens, especially the Botanical Garden with its incredible floral displays. The museum of Natural History is based within this garden. When you have soaked up the beauty of Monte and all it has to offer it’s time to head home, but how? by return trip on the cable car? or, take a thrill seeking ride in a wicker basket through the winding cobbled streets you saw on your way up?

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 >>