Calheta travel guide

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The name Calheta originated from the narrow inlet serving its harbor. The town of Calheta is surrounded by towering mountains, endless lush green mantle and the vast ocean. It is one of the first locations in Madeira Island which is subjected to farming. Amongst the settlers, Calheta was a place of interest for noblemen and knights. Joao Gonsçalves Zarco was among those settlers who later donated this land to his daughter. Calheta was raised to the category of town by royal charter, which was issued in 1825. Going deep into its golden history and cultural heritage, one points out to the valuable heritage of a religious nature of civil parish. Calheta is one of the civil parishes in Madeira with the largest number of chapels. The main economic activities here are agriculture, trade and industry. At once the sugar industry here was progressing so much that there were eight sugar mills running at that time but now only one is in operation. This area has abundant variety of fishes and is known for the same. Calheta is also famous for producing the best white Rum.

Fast Facts

1) Rabacal hut: a minor road runs 10km north to Calheta. It is known for the Risco Falls and the green gorge known as Vinte e Cinco Fontes (twenty five springs).

2) It has two man-made golden sandy beaches. It’s considered a favorite place, not only by the locals but also by those who visit it.

3) Centro das Artes Casa das Mudas : is a new art centre located at the edge of a cliff built to host exclusive art exhibitions, musical performances and many other events.

Caheta is a great place to chill out. The beach resort in Calheta is a paradise for sunbathers. It has imported golden Sahara sand, with a sheltered swimming area. Calheta has numerous footpaths and hiking trails to follow. The rich mountainous scenery and stunning coastal views create ideal conditions for active visitors who are keen to explore the area. The town has hotels, spa and leisure centres which is open to the public. You must also go for tennis, squash, hang-gliding and paragliding.

Getting to and traveling around Portugal is as convenient these days as any other destination in Europe as it is facilitated by modern airports and a network of highly efficient transport terminals located in every corner. Madeira has airports served by TAP Air Portugal, the national carrier, which has direct flights to Lisbon from a number of destinations including England, France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, the USA and Canada. After reaching Madeira you can hire a taxi. Direct and regular bus services also operate from France, Spain and England, while train connections from France and Spain provide regular scenic stops. Portugal’s mainland rail system is cheap and extensive, and tourists have a wide range of special tickets available. Many private coach companies provide fast and efficient road transport in Portugal, at very reasonable prices.

Calheta is typically known for its Mediterranean cuisines having plenty of fish, olive oil and garlic. Locally-caught atum (tuna) is usually grilled as a meaty steak served with slices of lemon. Other popular fish dishes on the island include grouper, red mullet (salmonete) and swordfish (espadarte). The island's most famous meat dish is espetada, comprising several cubes of meat (normally beef), onions, tomatoes and peppers cooked over an open wood fire.

Shopping is an irresistible temptation that one experiences here. Best buys include locally-made leather goods, jewellery, fine porcelain and high-quality clothes ranging from thick hand-knitted sweaters to the hottest fashion attire. Even today the traditional arts and crafts are still very prevalent in spite of Portugal's rapid modernization. Pottery, ceramics and tiles are produced to high standards all over the country, with differing styles. There are plenty of small shops in Estrela. It also has a small supermarket twhich sells fresh fish is opposite to Calheta Marina. You can also find variety of fruits like mangoes, papyas, bananas etc.

The Atlantic Ocean invites you to go sailing, fishing, whale & dolphin spotting, scuba diving, water skiing, surfing, diving and of course swimming.

The local transport in Calheta is buses which are a comfortable mode of traveling. You can even hire a taxi which is easily available.