Southern Madeira

The southern coast of Madeira is known for having the warmest temperatures on the island. It is the most popular area among tourists, and the weather is the most reliable. This is where you will find the most hotels and restaurants. It is also famous for popular towns like Câmara de Lobos, which was admired by Winston Churchill and immortalized in one of his paintings. Or Cabo Girão – one of the highest cliffs in Europe. The southern part of Madeira is also a paradise for surfers who come here from all over the world!

The map with marked locations is at the very bottom! (click here)

Table of contents:

1. Funchal
2. Madalena do Mar
3. Angel’s Waterfall ***
4. Cabo Girao ***
5. Camara de Lobos ***

Madalena do Mar

One of the oldest towns on Madeira, with several fishing cottages in the eastern part. There are many banana plantations in the area that can be visited. Recently, it has also become one of the favorite spots for surfers.

Interesting fact: In this village, far from his homeland, Polish King Władysław III Warneńczyk is said to have lived – the true father of Christopher Columbus, the discoverer of America. Furthermore, the Church of St. Mary Magdalene was built on the site of a chapel (1497) that was funded by a certain Henrique Alemao, about whom little is known. According to Madeiran legends, the mysterious figure was indeed Władysław III…

Angel’s Waterfall ***

Heading west on the “inactive” ER101 road from Ponta do Sol, you will reach the Angel’s Waterfall (Cascada Dos Anjos). Cascades falling from dozens of meters to several hundred meters high can be found at every turn, but… a waterfall falling directly onto a narrow road is a real attraction! You can drive under the waterfall (a free car wash :D), and also walk under it. A shower in the freezing cold water refreshes you and gives you energy for a whole day of sightseeing!

Just after exiting the tunnel, about 300 meters before the Angel’s Waterfall, you will see a stone bridge. It’s worth stopping! Walking a little bit uphill, you will see a wonderful rock arch and an otherworldly view! You definitely won’t regret it!

Cabo Girao ***

The 589-meter-high cliff, ranked among the top ten highest cliffs in Europe, but not everyone dares to climb it. Despite the stunning panorama from the top, most visitors tend to look at their feet, as the Cabo Girão Skywalk viewpoint is built with… a glass floor!

At the viewpoint, there is also a café and a souvenir shop. I highly recommend going to the café for a delicious coffee with a breathtaking view!

Opening hours: SUMMER daily from 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM, WINTER daily from 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Tickets: free entry

Camara de Lobos ***

A picturesque town founded in 1420, admired by Winston Churchill himself. It is one of the most beautiful towns on the island.

The discoverer of Madeira, João Gonçalves Zarco, was the first to arrive at this wonderful bay. Upon reaching the shore, he noticed colonies of Mediterranean monk seals, called “sea wolves” by the Portuguese, and thus the port of Câmara de Lobos (Chamber of Wolves) was established. To this day, it remains a fishing bay where you can see colorful fishing boats at the harbor, which Winston Churchill immortalized in his painting.

The bay also features a monument of Winston Churchill sitting in front of an easel. Wonderful streets invite you for a walk, and there’s also the Jardim do Ilheu park with a viewpoint terrace!

Map:

If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!