Travel to Calheta with us
Small but perfectly formed is one of the best ways to describe Calheta, a pint-sized resort on the island of Madeira that is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds during their break in the sun.
Located less than an hour away from the island capital Funchal, Calheta is located in one of the most picturesque parts of the island and is also home to one of the few true beaches to be found anywhere in Madeira.
What that means is that unlike other areas of the island, the volcanic beaches are made of shingle and stone, Calheta is home to a sandy beach featuring protected waters where you can relax under the sun before taking a refreshing dip in the calm waters.
Off the man-made beach you can also sample a selection of watersports if you so desire.
As with other parts of the island, Calheta benefits from favourable weather conditions throughout the year, with average temperatures that run into the mid 20s during the summer but which remain comfortable during the winter months.
During the summer months, the levels of precipitation will be negligible which adds to the appeal, although during the winter months there is a greater chance of having to deal with a shower or two.
The peaceful surroundings of Calheta itself are matched by the surrounding region, with the chance to head inland to explore rolling hillsides, impressive waterfalls and traditional old mills that hark back a bygone era.
That’s without taking into account the historical attractions that are within Calheta itself, which includes museums and churches as well as a factory where you can sample some of the very best Madeiran rum.
Given the Madeira is a relatively small island, you can also head off further afield to explore if you wish, with the likes of Funchal being well worth a visit.
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Things To Do
Hit the beach
The golden sands that make up the beach in Calheta have been brought in from Morocco and it means that the beach in the resort is a world away from most of those seen in Madeira – which tend to be made up of a mixture of stone and shingle. The beach is protected by the sea walls and can get busy during the summer months as people look to make the most of the favourable weather conditions.
Sample watersports
The calm waters off the coast of Calheta are well suited to watersports and there are various different sports that you can try out. Canoeing, waterskiing, windsurfing and scuba diving are amongst the options for those who do decide to take to the water.
Marina
The marina area has become a major selling point for people considering a trip to Calheta. Visit in a morning and you’ll see the fishermen bringing back their catch which you can then enjoy in the local restaurants, whilst you could also book a trip to try fishing yourself or to try and spot the dolphins and whales that are to be found in the surrounding waters.
Madeiran Wine
One of the most famous exports from Madeira is wine and you’ll have plenty of chances to enjoy it on a trip to Calheta in the various bars and restaurants. Visit the Sugar Cane factory and you can sample some of the local goods including Poncha, which is created using rum created on site from locally harvested sugar cane.
Casa das Mudas
Calheta is a good place to go if you have a love of the arts, with the Casa das Mudas having won numerous awards. The gallery is home to an impressive collection of Portuguese art that dates back to the 1960s – including works from various artists who are from the island.
Levada Nova
Maderia is known for the network of small canals that cross the island and which were used to carry water down from the mountains and to help with the local crops. Alongside these irrigation channels are a number of footpaths and Levada Nova is one near to Calheta that is worth exploring as it winds through hills and forests, taking in local villages and some of the most impressive scenery on the island.
Best Hotels In Calheta
Savoy Calheta Beach Hotel
Calheta
Located on the southern coast of the beautiful Island of Madeira, this complex is 1 minute from the beach. Funchal, the island’s capital is a 25 minute drive from the hotel. The Sa...
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