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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: Portuguese, English, German, French
- Climate: Subtropical Mediterranean
- Timezone: Atlantic/Madeira
- Population: Approximately 11,500 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to October for warm, sunny weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the EU, UK, and US do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Many other nationalities benefit from visa-free access or visa on arrival. An e-visa is not typically required for short tourist visits. Travelers should carry a valid passport or national ID and check specific entry rules before travel.
About Calheta
Calheta is a charming coastal town located on the southwestern coast of Madeira Island, Portugal. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is famous for its golden sandy beach, one of the few on the island, which attracts sunbathers and swimmers alike. Calheta’s harbor and marina provide a picturesque setting and opportunities for boating and fishing. Visitors can explore traditional sugar cane mills and taste local rum, reflecting the region’s agricultural history. The surrounding hills and mountains offer excellent hiking trails with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Calheta’s mild subtropical climate ensures pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and relaxation. Its combination of authentic Madeiran culture, delicious local cuisine, and welcoming community makes Calheta a unique and appealing destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Top Attractions
1. Calheta Beach – A rare sandy beach on Madeira, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 2. Casa das Mudas Arts Center – A contemporary art museum showcasing local and international artists. 3. Engenho da Calheta – A restored sugar cane mill offering insight into Madeira’s traditional rum production. 4. Marina da Calheta – A modern marina with restaurants and opportunities for boat tours and water sports. 5. Levada Walks – Scenic hiking trails near Calheta following historic irrigation channels with breathtaking views.
Popular Activities
Visitors to Calheta can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beach, sailing and fishing from the marina, and hiking the nearby levada trails through lush landscapes. Cultural experiences include visiting art galleries, exploring traditional rum distilleries, and attending local festivals. Adventure seekers can try canyoning or paragliding in the surrounding hills. The town also offers opportunities for whale and dolphin watching tours.
Calheta Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Madeira
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to October for warm, sunny weather. Pack comfortable clothing, swimwear, and hiking shoes. Respect local customs such as greeting with a handshake and modest dress in religious sites. Calheta is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Euros are used; credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable. Learning basic Portuguese greetings enhances interactions.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $220
9 Available Tour Excursions in Calheta
Includes: Pick up and Drop Off Hotel, Qualified Guide for this tour, Small Groups. Maderian Lunch included, Snacks and drinks included. Recommendations: Please bring good footwear and warm jackets. During this excursion, you will be visiting, a private banana farm in Funchal, Biggest Banana Cooperation taking the old road to another interesting local family vegetable and fruit farm,that supplies most of our supermarket chains of the island, a cattle farm that provides most of its milk for the making of our famous “requeijão” cheese, and see the old milking techniques. Stop for lunch in a typical restaurant, visit to this wonderful village with farming history. Visit the rum factory with visit to this attraction, tasting of rum and maderian cake included, this factory exports most of the honeycake. After lunch a drive through countryside in the North stop at the cable car viewpoint. Return to the Hotel. Definetely a way to understand how farming in Madeira works, the tecniques used.
Price: $101.71
Duration: 7 hours
Experience breathtaking moments with wild animals in their natural habitat with a touch of adrenaline included!
Price: $65.81
Duration: 2 hours
Starting in the serene Paul da Serra and descending into the stunning Rabaçal Valley, you'll walk through the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike other tours, we include a visit to the magnificent Risco Waterfall, adding an extra layer of awe to your journey. Plus, our return route takes you through a 500-meter ancient tunnel, ending on the south side of Madeira, providing a unique and memorable conclusion to your adventure.
Price: $55.05
Duration: 7 hours
This tour gives the guests the freedom to choose their itinerary tailored made tour according to their interest, the time for they spend in each stop and the their pick up time. They have their own private knowledgeable qualified guide that will certainly make their holiday memorable. This tour is ideal for families. Also ideal for cruise line guests who are in Madeira only a couple of hours and to see some of Madeiras great attractions without rushing through normal offered tours.
Price: $179.49
Duration: 6 hours
Discover one of Madeira’s last untouched treasures at Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic peninsula of volcanic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and raw natural beauty. Located on the eastern tip of the island, this spectacular spot offers breathtaking panoramic views over both the northern and southern coasts. On clear days, you might even glimpse the distant Porto Santo Island. Led by passionate local guides, this tour combines expert insight with a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful escape. You will explore panoramic viewpoints, spot distant islands on clear days, and even possible to see Prainha beach. It’s the perfect mix of sea, scenery, and serenity, creating one of the most unforgettable moments of your trip!
Price: $58.64
Duration: 4 hours
We begin our day with a peaceful visit to the Cristo Rei viewpoint in Garajau — the Art Deco Sacred Heart statue of Jesus Christ offering stunning coastal views. Next, we head to the Levada Camacha trail, also known as Paradise Valley. This easy 60-minute walk takes you through lush greenery, flowing water channels, and diverse local flora and fauna, nature at its finest. Afterwards, we travel to the charming northern village of Santana to explore its iconic Colmo houses. Lunch is served at Quinta do Furão, a beautiful spot surrounded by vineyards and gardens. You will also have the chance to taste Madeira wine with panoramic views of the coast. We then stop at the Portela Viewpoint (670m) for sweeping views of the north coast and the dramatic Eagle’s Cliff. Our final stop is Santo da Serra, where we soak in the local culture at the traditional Sunday farmer’s market, the perfect way to end a laid-back island day.
Price: $76.58
Duration: 8 hours
Discover the traditional houses of Santana on a full-day tour from Funchal. Admire the unique charm and beauty of the region's iconic houses, and see the third-highest mountain in Madeira, Pico do Areeiro. Leave Funchal and first head to Pico do Areeiro at 1818 meters above sea level. On the way down to Santana, make a brief stop at Ribeiro Frio to visit the trout hatchery, surrounded by a beautiful garden with rare trees and endemic plants of the island (entrance not included). Discover Madeira's Laurisilva Forest in Ribeiro Frio, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. In Santana, see the typical houses of the region. Take a lunch break here. On the way back to Funchal, drive along the stunning North Coast and stop in Porto da Cruz, from where you can enjoy the view of the North Coast and the impressive rock formation Penha d'Águia. Return to the hotel via Ponta de São Lourenço with its beautiful, lunar-like landscapes.
Price: $70.00
Duration: 8 hours
This charming walk follows ancient paths once carved by locals, offering stunning views of North Coast villages and lush valleys within the Madeira Natural Park. As you explore, take note of the steep terrain and marvel at how local farmers work the land, a true testament to resilience. You will be surrounded by vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, tranquil fountains, and crystal-clear pools. With professional guides and quality service, this relaxing experience blends nature, culture, and unforgettable memories. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Price: $59.83
Duration: 5 hours
Driving through Madeira in a cabriolet is undoubtedly an extraordinary way to explore and fall in love with the island. A convertible isn’t just stylish; it offers a laid-back approach to exploring the island. It’s a fun way to travel, ideal for creating unforgettable memories. Experience that combines the island's unparalleled natural beauty. Through the scenic roads that wind between towering mountains and breathtaking views over the sea, with the top down and the landscape an unobstructed view of the stunning landscapes, wide view of the majestic cliffs, lush hills, and vibrant flowers that characterize Madeira, rather than being confined in a closed interior. This is more than a tour, it's an experience that will capture your heart and stay with you forever. Book your unforgettable Madeira cabriolet adventure now!
Price: $502.59
Duration: 6-8 hours
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Calheta’s cuisine features fresh seafood such as espada (black scabbardfish), often served with banana or passion fruit sauce. Traditional Madeiran dishes include espetada (grilled beef skewers), bolo do caco (garlic bread), and local honey cake. Dining customs emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and relaxed meals. Noteworthy restaurants include Restaurante Onda Azul, known for its seafood, and Casa da Farinha, offering traditional Madeiran specialties.
Getting Around
Calheta is accessible by car or bus from Funchal, Madeira’s capital, about 30 minutes away. The nearest airport is Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport. Local transportation includes buses connecting Calheta with other parts of Madeira. Taxis and rental cars are available for more flexibility. Walking is practical within the town. Costs are moderate, with bus fares being affordable and car rentals reasonably priced.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from May to October for warm, sunny weather. Pack comfortable clothing, swimwear, and hiking shoes. Respect local customs such as greeting with a handshake and modest dress in religious sites. Calheta is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Euros are used; credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable. Learning basic Portuguese greetings enhances interactions.
Culture & Customs
Calheta’s culture blends traditional Madeiran customs with Portuguese influences. Social interactions are warm and polite, with family and community playing central roles. Important festivals include the Festa da Flor (Flower Festival) and local religious celebrations. Visitors should show respect for local traditions, dress modestly in churches, and use formal greetings. Hospitality is a key value, and tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
