Calheta

The municipality of Calheta is located between the south and far west of Madeira island. The municipality is bordered on northwest by the municipality of Porto Moniz, on northeast by São Vicente and to the west by Ponta do Sol, being bathed by the Atlantic Ocean on its southern and western area. Its name comes from the island's settlement period, during which the rights on sugar and woods deposits points were here created – these points were called calhetas. It is believed that the name Calheta was used for the first time by João Gonçalves Zarco, the discoverer of Madeira, who chose this area to donate vast lands to his children João Gonçalves da Câmara and Dona Beatriz Gonçalves. Being a primarily rural municipality, to the east we find rich cultivations, like wine, banana and sugarcane, while, to the west, there are more fruits and vegetables. We can find a vast built heritage throughout the territory, ranging from churches, chapels and hermitages to manor houses and fountains. On a gastronomic level, beyond the great fish and fresh seafood, another delicacy not to be missed is the famous bolo do caco (traditional Madeira bread made with sweet potatoes), which is perfect to accompany the also known Madeira kebabs, or that can simply be tasted with garlic butter.

What to do in Calheta

Travel Guide

Up to date tourist information about the city's top attractions

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Where to eat in Calheta

Where to sleep in Calheta

Saccharum Resort & Spa
Saccharum Resort & Spa

5 star

O enquadramento natural e paisagístico é único e deslumbrante, a aproveitar o melhor do mar e também da montanha. Um dos locais onde imponência da vista mais i…

Hotel Jardim Atlântico
Hotel Jardim Atlântico

4 star

A hotel located on the top of a cliff, in a landscape that is in touch with nature and lovely views of the mountain and of the sea. It has 61 T0 apartments, 26…

Casa do Lugarinho
Casa do Lugarinho

A restored house located in a peaceful area in touch with nature. Besides the main house, there is also a newer construction by it with a room and wc.

Near Calheta

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz


The municipality of Santa Cruz, whose area of 95.5 km2 also covers the Desertas Islands, visible from the coast, is located on the south coast of Mad…

Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz


Located in the north of the island of Madeira, the current name of the municipality of Porto Moniz is due to one of the first settlers of the island,…

Ribeira Brava

Ribeira Brava


Created May 6, 1914, the municipality of Ribeira Brava has an area of 65 km2 and is formed by the parishes of Belfry, Ribeira Brava, Serra de Água an…

São Vicente

São Vicente


Located in the North of the island of Madeira, the municipality of São Vicente occupies an area of about 80 square miles and consists of the parishes…