Ponta do Sol

Ponta do Sol is one of our personal favourite spots on Madeira’s southwest coast. This small village sits right by the ocean – and whenever we get the chance, we love stopping here for a swim. What we especially love is the view from the water back towards the colourful promenade, framed by the steep cliffs rising on either side. The small pebble and stone beach might not be the most comfortable on the island, but it’s exactly this setting that makes swimming here so special for us. Afterwards, take some time to stroll along the promenade and through the small village centre. And if the little ice cream van serving homemade ice cream from Manifattura di Gelato in Calheta happens to be by the beach: definitely give it a try. The name Ponta do Sol feels pretty fitting: the area is known for its many hours of sunshine and is one of the sunniest parts of Madeira. And if you stay until the evening, a clear day can reward you with a beautiful sunset over the Atlantic. One more little tip if you’re coming by car: there are only a few paid parking spaces directly along the promenade. You’ll find additional parking inside the tunnels on either side of the promenade – and parking there is free.