Funchal , Portugal

Fishing Villages - Southwest Tour

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About this experience

South west Tour - best way to visit Ponta do Pargo light house and the Madeira Fishing Villages.Madeira Tour Starts at Camara de Lobos and goes alone the SouthWest coast of Madeira island.Tour will take you to Visit the magnificent villages of Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar.

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Fishing Villages - Southwest Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, Canico

Detailed itinerary

Heading home, Our last stop is Ponta do sol. The sunniest spot on the island, and it gets its name from sunny point. A quiet and pretty little village shoe- horned into the folds of a steep valley overhung with dense banana plantation, with a relaxed and lively air.

After enjoying lunch, the tour carries on the journey to discover other beautiful fishing villages. Prazeres is a small agricultural settlement around a church, with its massive towers appearing far too large for the place. The region around Prazeres still has many old one room houses built from dark basalt with unplasted walls.

Ponta do Pargo is located on the western most tip of Madeira. Alongside the cliff-top is a lighthouse, 312mts (984 ft) above the sea. The village is named after dolphin fish, (no relation to dolphins) which is fished in that area. With its lighthouse in the far overturn extreme of the island, and a fabulous view overlooking the coast, and the narrow flat lands, it is an incredible place. The village is surrounded by fields of vines and vegetables.

After leaving Ponta do Pargo, you reach paul do mar. Its exposure to the ocean, and historical periods when the sea bathed the area with seawater, once characterised the area as the Sitio da Lagoa or Alagoa (English: site of the lake or the lake). Historically, the area experienced flooding from the sea when the Atlantic submerged and inundated fields to a depth of one metre. As a result a salt factory was established. But, this was closed long ago. Since the construction of a new higher sea wall and ocean front with road and parking the sea flooding has stopped.

An instantly likeable place, the traditional fishing village of Jardim do Mar has a marine promenade which is delightful to walk. It has a sheer cliff tower above the village. It is the surfing centre of Madeira. Believe it or not, there is a route up the steep cliff which was the only route to get in and out of the village

Calheta a pretty village set in a steep valley just above the coast. The main town of the south western coast of Madeira, a fertile sunbathed region .The town of Calheta was built in an inlet by the mouth of the stream due to the permanent sun, the recent artificial sand beach and marine make it a town for leisure.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Funchal

Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, is a city where lush landscapes meet charming architecture. Known for its subtropical climate, beautiful gardens, and dramatic coastal scenery, Funchal offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Botanical Garden

A stunning garden with a wide variety of exotic plants, offering panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.

Nature 1-2 hours €7.50

Sé Cathedral

A beautiful 15th-century Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Funchal, featuring intricate architecture and historical significance.

Historical/Religious 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Mercado dos Lavradores

A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts, providing a glimpse into Madeira's culture and daily life.

Market 1 hour Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Cabo Girão Skywalk

A breathtaking glass platform extending over the cliffs of Cabo Girão, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours €5

Santana

A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bolo do Caco

A traditional Madeiran bread made with sweet potato, often served with garlic butter and grilled meats.

Bread Contains gluten

Espetada

A skewer of beef marinated in wine, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection.

Main Course Contains beef, gluten

Poncha

A traditional Madeiran cocktail made with aguardente (a type of brandy), honey, and lemon or orange juice.

Drink Contains alcohol

Bacalhau à Madeirense

Salted cod cooked with onions, peppers, and sometimes raisins and olives, a popular dish in Madeira.

Main Course Contains fish, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Paragliding Cable car rides Beach relaxation Spa treatments Gardens and parks Museum visits Historical sites

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Funchal, with pleasant temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer tourists. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (WET) / GMT+1 (WEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Funchal is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions

Getting there

By air

Madeira Airport (Funchal Airport) • 20 km from Funchal

By bus

Funchal Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and efficient, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Zona Velha) Funchal Marina Monte

Day trips

Porto Santo

100 km from Funchal • Full day

A beautiful island known for its golden sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, offering a perfect escape from the bustle of Funchal.

Santana

30 km from Funchal • Half day

A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.

Pico do Arieiro

20 km from Funchal • Half day

A stunning mountain peak offering breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean, with various hiking trails and scenic drives.

Festivals

Madeira Flower Festival • March/April Atlantic Festival • August Christmas and New Year's Celebrations • December/January

Pro tips

Visit the local markets for fresh produce, flowers, and unique souvenirs
Take a cable car ride for a scenic and memorable experience
Try local dishes like Bolo do Caco and Espetada for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the Old Town for historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and local shops
Participate in a wine tasting tour to learn about the island's winemaking traditions