Villa Mouco

The small town of Arco de Calheta is one of several small villages spreading out from the coast up into hillside surrounded by the sugar cane plantations which gave this area its main source of employment and income. It is well worth visiting Engenho da Calheta, a working sugar cane factory where you can see how Madeira rum is made and even try a sample if you aren’t the driver. There are several small shops and cafés locally, as you head towards Calheta itself the choice and size become more varied. 

If you are interested in some walking while you are on holiday, nearby you have access to one of the most beautiful stretches of the Levada’s, a man made irrigation system built hundreds of years ago, these weave their way across the hillside for some 800 miles, how is this possible on such a small island. The 25 Fontes Levada is one of the most beautiful, to be sure it lives up to its name just count the number of fountains or little waterfalls that you pass as you go. 

If you are looking for a little more action you could check out the Paragliding Centre, they offer tandem flights for the novice. Perfectly situated here on the east coast you catch the breeze whatever the wind direction, landing gently back on Calheta beach at the end of your unforgettable trip.

Calheta itself is a very friendly lively place, once reliant on fishing but perhaps today tourism is more profitable. Water sports are one of the main attractions here, you could sign up for an excursion with the diving school, the most popular trip explores the wreck of the Bowbelle, which ship sank off the coast of Ponta do Sol. If you would rather be on the water rather than in it there are a few options for wildlife cruises to see the dolphins and whales or even big game fishing if it’s the right season for it.  

There are many restaurants and cafés to choose from, the local specialties are based around the islands own produce, several excellent sea food restaurants can be found around the harbour area. You should also try what has become the national drink, Poncha, created by fishermen to warm themselves after a night at sea, a too easy to drink cocktail of fermented sugar cane syrup, lemon and honey.

There are some beautiful small villages on the coast around here, Ponto do Sol, point of the sun, supposedly the sunniest place on the island has a picture postcard promenade lined by palm trees which runs the length of the village.  Strangely they have a beach volleyball court on the beach here. Madalena do Mar offers excellent spots for swimming while Lugar de Biaxo’s waves make it a popular destination for surfers.  

As you can see you could spend your whole holiday without moving from Calheta, however a trip to Funchal, the capitol of the island is a must. There is so much to see and do, the town square with its unique black and white chequered cobblestones made from lava rock, grand whitewashed buildings and beautiful parks and gardens is an ideal place to start your visit to this beautiful small city. Many of the grandiose buildings dating back to the island origins now house museums, art galleries and exhibitions. Don’t miss the Sacred Art Museum and its impressive collection of sculptures, paintings and gold items some dating from the 15th century. The museum is noted for its remarkable paintings by Flemish masters, which were commissioned by affluent merchants during the height of the sugar trade between Madeira and Antwerp.

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 >>