Villa Girao

Villa Girao can be found just a short 5-minute drive away from the centre of Calheta, offering guests the opportunity to explore this thought-provoking region in a stress-free manner. One of Calheta’s most prominent commodities is its wine, which can be found scattered throughout the many bars and restaurants throughout this region. Thus, guests are encouraged to explore each of these establishments in full, taking in the delicious taste of the artisan wine as well as the energetic atmosphere that surrounds them. If you wish to take a closer look at this production, you can embark on a guided tour of the Madeira Wine Institute. Here, guests will learn more about the crucial art of winemaking as well as how it has managed to boost the region’s entire economy. The Madeira Wine Institute can be found just over 40 minutes away from the villa.
 
Casa du Mudas is an incredibly striking art gallery that can be found at the very top of a looming cliff. Thus, this attraction is able to offer awe-inspiring views of the local area as well as a wealth of remarkable contemporary art pieces. This establishment is filled to the brim with enticing pieces, including those crafted by geniuses such as Dali and Miro. Guests must explore every aspect of this bustling hub of culture, observing the nuances of the deeply eccentric European contemporary art scene. Casa du Mudas is located just over 5 minutes away from Villa Girao.
 
Since this region is well recognised for its rich biodiversity, a boat trip is a must-do activity for adventurous tourists. A majority of these tours depart from the local marina, which is situated around 10 minutes away from the villa. From here, guests will be taken to a series of remote and secluded bays, where they will be able to observe a collection of remarkable dolphins as they leap in and out of the peaceful water. Once you return back to the marina, make sure that you delve into the range of seafood dishes that can be found here. In turn, guests are free to enjoy delicacies such as fresh fish served with artisan olive oil and parsley as they watch the small boats float along the clear water.

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 >>