Ponta do Pargo is the most western point of the island and it remind you on the scotish landscape:from the viewpoint in front of the lighthouse from Ponta do Pargo ( above 312 m sealevel)you have superb views over the westcoast.It is the highest situated lighthouse from whole Portugal.By leaving the viewpoint follow the sign "miradouro" and you come to the Teahouse of Ponta do Pargo with a nice esplanade.From Ponta do Pargo you can start several walks, for example an easy one :
Amparo - Pedregal ( ca. 3 h)
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.....
