Villa Viana

The villa is situated in a quiet family-friendly neighbourhood in the picturesque village of Prazeres in the relatively rural southwest region of Madeira. Where majestic mountains and lush banana plantations meet the crystal-clear azure waters of the Atlantic, there is something for everyone in this quiet corner of Madeira. Prazeres village has a gentle charm, with a little animal farm, herb garden and tea rooms attached to the local church. And for beach bums, Jardim do Mar - quite literally the ‘garden of the sea’, a scenic coastal area boasting three pebble beaches backed by spectacular scenery, is only minutes away. For adrenaline junkies, you’ll love to know the best surf on the Island can be found here.

Just a short drive down the road you can find the lovely coastal town of Calheta. This popular spot is home to one of the first man-made beaches on the Island. With beautiful golden sand and beautifully clear waters, this family-friendly beach offers a range of activities including snorkelling, canoeing and windsurfing. And with frequent whale watching tours also on offer, the whole family are kept entertained. The town itself has a great variety of restaurants offering fantastic seafood, as well as a good number of bars and shops. And for something a little different, the sugar cane museum and working factory is well worth a visit.

One of the most breath-taking activities on the Island of Madeira has to be the wonderful 2,092 kilometres of narrow stone irrigation channels known as levadas that are used as hiking trails, criss-crossing Madeira's lush mountainous countryside into the Laurisilva forest. In fact, there are three stunning trails within easy reach of the villa, offering spectacular views, so be sure to pack appropriate footwear!

40km east of the villa you’ll find Madeira’s historic capital Funchal, a fantastic destination for a fun-packed day trip. Funchal is a wonderful city in a beautiful setting amidst banana plantations and floral gardens, facing proudly out to the glistening Atlantic Ocean. Amble along the promenade enjoying a glass or two of Poncha in one of the beachfront bars, before taking the cable car up to Monte to visit the world-renowned tropical gardens. Little and big kids will love the traditional wicker taboggan run back down to the old town where you can enjoy mouth-watering seafood, delicious skewered meats and exquisite tapas in one of the many fantastic restaurants.

The whole Island is relatively easy to explore due to its size. So whether it’s wine tasting in the south, or relaxing in the black lava pools of the north, the stunning natural scenery of Madeira ensures there really is something for everyone here.

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 >>