Estreito da Calheta in the suburbs of Calheta in the countryside with lots of winegrapes is the ideal starting point for walks along the Levada Nova : p.ex.
the Levada walk from Prazeres to Amparo ( 3,5 h ) or the opposite direction from Prazeres to Calheta or going up to Paul da Serra ( 1500 m ) and walk along Levada do Paúl with splendid views.
Place information Calheta
The southwestern coast of Madeira is ideal for all those, looking for unspoilt nature and part of the island with the warmest climate, far away from the usual tourism centres of Funchal.In the winter season it offers still very moderate temperatures so that you can even swim in the atlantic nearby. You reach the sea by an artificial sandy beach, built in 2006 with imported sand from Marocco. Beside the beach you find the Marina with some bars and restaurants and elegant yachts. From here you can start several excursions by boat : big game fishing or whale and dolphin watching.
An old sugar cane factory is working once a year ( march/april)but open throughout the whole year :you can taste the products made in the factory.
For all those who like to walk here is the ideal place to start : the national park Rabaçal - Worlds nature heritage ( UNESCO) - is perfect for some Levada walks ( 25 fontes / Risco waterfall).Here you find Madeiras "Laurissilva" - Laurel forests and enjoy the unspoilt Madeira, as it was at the time it was discovered.....
