Villa Padre

Ribeira Brava is best recognised for its supreme selection of historical landmarks and is based just over 10 minutes away from Villa Padre. Since this region hosts an extremely bustling culture, guests are encouraged to take a trip to the Ribeira Brava Market as a way to experience it for themselves. This market is filled with artisan stalls, allowing guests to browse through an assortment of unique products such as fresh produce, bags, and clothes. Thus, guests are free to purchase a few souvenirs that they can show off back home. Though this market has been standing since the 19th century, it was completely remodelled in the 1990s, allowing guests to observe this region’s impeccable past and present. Ribeira Brava Market can be found just over five minutes away from the villa.
 
Sao Bento Church is a deeply significant and alluring landmark that is based around 5 minutes away from Villa Padre. Characterised by its white-washed walls and intricate detailing, this church symbolises the community-focused nature of this region as well as its rich religious roots. Guests are also encouraged to examine the interior of this monument, basking in a plethora of ornate artefacts and fixtures. In addition, a wide variety of these pieces have been showcased at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Brussels, exemplifying their truly exquisite beauty.
 
Alongside its marvellous history and atmosphere, Ribeira Brava is also commended for its transformative food scene. This region is most famous for its Madeirense steak, which is often prepared on charred skewers. This dish is also served with a collection of freshly chopped vegetables, making this a truly nourishing and delightful dish. Some restaurants even offer a live cooking experience, allowing guests to absorb the amazing sights and smells as the talented chef cooks this dish over a roaring wood fire. In order to try this impeccable dish for yourself, be sure to take a trip to the town centre, where you will also discover a variety of quirky bars and artisan boutiques. Thus, guests are free to enjoy a deeply divine meal as they continue to soak up the pleasant atmosphere and culture of this fantastic area.

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 >>