Things to do in

Prazeres

Enjoy the warmest place of Madeira and what is has to offer. The southwest is the point less visited by foreigners, making all the viewpoints unique. You can admire the lovely scenery freely there without the crowds of tourists around spoiling it. You'll start at Campanário, with tiny 2-way roads making for great adventures. Once at Ponta do Sol, you will take an off-road track up to the plateau which sits at 1,500 meters. This track will see you passing by green mountains, all of which are covered with forests. Following that, stop at Prazeres where you have the option to taste home-made dishes which pack plenty of flavor. You'll then make your way down to the villages near the coastline, where charismatic fishing villages create a contrast with the colors of the sky and mountains. You will see old terraces where people still work with their hands in the production of bananas, sugar cane, and subtropical fruits.

You’ll begin your nature hike in the western part of the Island. Your mountain guide will take you on a route that passes through spectacular mountain scenery and offers views of coastal villages below. In addition to the luxuriant vegetation, you’ll have constant views of the ocean. This pleasant half-day walk is rated as easy. Enjoy views of the fishing Villages of Paul do Mar and the coastal town of Ponta do Pargo along the way. See Prazeres, a small village where relaxation is an art form! Your walk ends at Ponta do Pargo, a charming town located on Madeira’s western coast. It’s known for its strategically located lighthouse, stunning cliffs that descend to the sea, and its apple festival.

Stroll across the paths of Levada Calheta and Prazeres and discover a variety of plant species. Take in amazing views of the surrounding landscape along the way. Begin in Calheta with a stroll along Regional Road 211 and towards Prazeres village, following a vibrant path. Discover several species of flora, such as acacias, eucalyptus, pine, and wildflowers. Stop to look around and let yourself be dazzled by the beautiful landscapes that arise along the way. Explore a little more of the natural beauty of this region, including the human presence that gives it life. Find various dirt roads that cross the route of the Levada and continue your way following the channel of water until you arrive at the Levadeiro house. Take a moment to pause and enjoy the beautiful nature as your tour comes to a close.

The Southwest tour first stops at Ponta Do Sol, the sunniest part of the island. From this coastal town, you'll continue to Moledos, where you can enjoy the magnificent view over the fishing village of Madelena do Mar. Next stop: Calheta, with its artificial sand beach and sugar cane factory. At Prazeres, you'll visit the Prazeres Educational Farm (Quinta Pedagogica dos Prazeres), housing various animals as well as an array of aromatic herbs. At Ponta do Pargo, discover an incredible lighthouse built in 1922, with the most unique part of the island as your backdrop. In Paúl do Mar you'll find a traditional fishing village which also happens to be a great spot to surf. From the viewpoint above, you can also enjoy the fabulous scenery over the mountains and the Atlantic. 'Ever-pretty' Jardim do Mar is one of three pebble beach villages: Portinho, Enseada and Ponta Jardim. These beaches attract locals and visitors alike in search of the beauty and calm of a natural environment. Tour finishes at Madelena do Mar, a tiny fishing village overlooking the sea cliffs of the southeast coastline. The location and climate help make this the largest banana producing area on the island.

Your half-day Southwest Madeira tour begins in Prazeres. You will be presented with a huge rocky scene which is typical of Madeira, and can visit Prazeres Farm Animal Zoo to try its famous Jellies. Afterwards, you will travel through Paul do Mar until you arrive to Fajã da Ovelha. This site surprises visitors with its magnificent yet quiet atmospher, which makes you feel like you are the only local residents. To conclude your itinerary you will visit the lighthouse of Ponta do Pargo. Situated at 312 meters high, you will be able to see breathtaking views of the ocean and the roughness of the landscape from its vantage point.

This pleasant walk starts in Prazeres, and travels to the south of the Island to the area of Raposeira. You will be picked up from your accommodation in Madeira by your driver and professional guide and taken to the beginning of the guided tour. Through the Levada, you can see some rich wilderness and wildlife and learn about it all from your expert guide You can enjoy views of the valleys, the eucalyptus and pine trees and learn about the Levadas, which were carved into the cliff to help carry water down to the farms and plantations. You will also pass some traditional houses and their residents at work farming.