2026 Calheta Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

#outdooradventures My adventure in Madeira was like stepping into a paradise of dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and vibrant culture! 🌿 This Portuguese island, tucked away in the Atlantic, offers so much to explore. One of the highlights was hiking the famous *Levada* trails, which lead you through misty forests and stunning waterfalls. The *Levada das 25 Fontes* trail was unforgettable, with its moss-covered paths and hidden springs. There’s no entrance fee for the hikes, just pure nature and a sense of discovery. I also took a cable car ride from Funchal to Monte, which costs around €16 for a round trip. The views from above the city and coastline were breathtaking! Once at the top, I visited the Monte Palace Tropical Garden – an oasis of exotic plants and serene ponds. 🌺 Entrance was about €12, but it’s worth every cent for the peaceful atmosphere. For thrill-seekers, don't miss paragliding over the island’s cliffs, or taking a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales. 🐬 The island’s rugged coastline is also perfect for a day of exploring hidden coves or visiting the nearby Porto Moniz natural pools. Madeira has something for everyone, whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into nature’s beauty. Definitely a must-visit! #trip #Madeira #HikingHeaven #NatureLovers #Adventure #IslandLife

#arrivalguide On São Jorge, the fajãs—flat coastal platforms dropped from cliff collapse—are the island’s soul. I walked the Serra do Topo → Fajã dos Vimes → Fajã dos Cubres link, stage 2 of GR01 SJ: 15 km, 6 hours, difficult, starting at 870 m on the plateau and dropping to sea level twice.From Serra do Topo I descended on dirt track to Fajã dos Vimes (3.5 km down), where a family runs a cheese cellar—São Jorge cheese aged 12 months, €12/kg, cash or MB Way, samples free if you chat. Then climbed out, crossed the hydrangea-lined track to the Santo Cristo junction, and dropped again to Fajã dos Cubres with its brackish lagoon and blue-green sea. No water on the trail, two stiff climbs, wind constant. A bus from Calheta covers the plateau road but not the fajã descents—rental car (€40/day in Velas) lets you stage it. I did Cubres→Vimes→Serra do Topo in reverse to end uphill in sunlight. Rule: never camp wild in fajãs (forbidden), and tell your guesthouse your ETA—cloud drops visibility to 10 m fast. My take: the dairy-stop at Vimes is the memory, not the cardio. Would you walk the full 40 km GR01 in two days, or cherry-pick one fajã descent and save the knees?

📍 Itinerary Overview Day 1: Landed at midday, took a bolt to Funchal, checked into the Hotel and found Dinner Day 2: Took the Cable car to Monte, visited the Tropical Gardens and took the Toboggan back Day 3: Visited the Santa Clara Convent, hired a car and Drove to Seixal Day 4: Walked PR6 and PR6.1 Day 5: Boat trip to see whales Day 6: Pool Day Day 7: Fajã dos Podres Cable car and beach Day 8: Home 🚇 Transportation Bolt for Funchal, Hire car for further afield 📷 Photo Spots Fajã does Podres 🍜 Local Cuisine A Tendinha in Funchal serves local fish 🏠 Accommodation 1. Quinta Funchal Gardens – Adults Only 2. Sao Francisco Hotel

#hellonewyear Levada das 25 Fontes is one of the most popular walks in Madeira for good reason. Located in the Madeira Autonomous Region of Portugal, this trail takes you through lush forest and along a classic levada path with water flowing beside you. The walk feels refreshing and shaded, making it comfortable even on warmer days. At the end, you reach a dramatic spot where multiple small waterfalls spill down a rocky wall into a clear pool. The sound of water echoes everywhere and creates a peaceful atmosphere. The path can get busy, especially late in the day, but the scenery still feels special. Levada das 25 Fontes is a great mix of easy walking and rewarding views. It is scenic, calming, and a must for nature lovers visiting Madeira.

#hellohalloween Levada Nova in Madeira offers a serene and picturesque hiking experience through the island’s lush landscapes. This trail follows an old irrigation channel, winding gently along verdant hillsides, vibrant forests, and flowing streams. The path is relatively easy, making it suitable for casual hikers and families while still providing stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Along the way, the abundance of native plants, colorful flowers, and occasional waterfalls adds to the enchanting atmosphere. The trail’s quiet charm invites moments of reflection and peaceful exploration, far from the busier tourist spots. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply seeking a leisurely walk immersed in nature, Levada Nova captures the essence of Madeira’s natural beauty. Completing this hike leaves a lasting impression of the island’s lush greenery and tranquil mountain scenery.

Step into the heart of the natural beauty of Madeira's Levada Nova hiking trail, where you can walk among the waterfalls and embrace the island's rich culture and heritage. Nestled between the peaceful hills of Ponta Do Sol and Tabua, this trail offers a refreshing and serene experience amidst the lush greenery. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie, Levada Nova is a must-visit destination that's guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.