The climate is mild all year round. it’s not for nothing that Madeira is nicknamed the “island of eternal spring”, valued as much for hiking as its distant Atlantic neighbor, the Azores, as for its spectacular end-of-year fireworks. or… for swimming. But given the geological configuration, don’t expect to find long sandy beaches in this archipelago whose main island is the result of a volcanic whim. This does not prevent you from using several points to cool off in crystal clear water.
Doca do Cavacas, urban diving
From the city center of Funchal we like to stroll along the lovely landscaped seafront, the famous Lido. A preferred meeting place for families, lovers and joggers, this seaside resort is just 5 km from several places to cool off. Among them, the Doca do Cavacas complex attracts locals and discerning tourists with natural pools of volcanic origin filled with seawater. Cabo Girao stands in the background. With a height of 580 m, it is the highest cape in Portugal and even in Europe. Those who want to prolong the idleness can walk to the neighboring Praia Formosa, Madeira’s largest beach.
Practical information
The complex has a snack bar and a good fish restaurant. You can also rent towers and umbrellas for the day or for several hours.
Piscinas do Porto Moniz, according to the tides
The top attraction on the island’s north coast, the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz draw the crowds. Naturally carved into the rock, they are filled by tides and waves that strike the walls in measured swells or crashes. Located at either end of the beach, they are distinguished by their placement and access conditions. To the east, the natural pools are in their raw state, born of the power of the elements and open for free access. The volcanic rock is prominent and the scenery wild. We swim from pool to pool, occasionally slapping our feet on the rocky ground. For more comfort, head west, where the pools are hand-dug. Lockers, lockers and terraces where you can spread out your towel justify the minimal entrance fees. Better laid out, these pools appeal to families.
Practical information
Entrance fees are free for the pools on the east side of the beach and €1.50 per adult for those on the west side.
Seixal, tropical
10 km from Porto Moniz, Seixal is a better preserved village than its neighbour. Born from volcanic rock erosion, its beautiful black-sand beach arcs against vegetation-covered cliffs. The whole thing looks like a tropical beach if you look east. On the other hand, an unsightly concrete wall has the virtue of breaking up the bloat and making swimming peaceful. And right next to it, the natural volcanic pool offers another playground for swimmers. From turquoise to emerald green, the color of the water varies according to the mood of the ocean and sky. Real postcard setting.
Practical information
The pool is free. Kayak rental on site at Marine Club.
Prainha, romantic
On the road to Ponta de San Lorenzo, the eastern tip of the island, cars parked in one piece are a point of interest. If the view of the ocean is amazing, then look down below. There, a small seagull, located in an arch, nests near the rock. More frankly secret, Prainha Beach attracts locals and visitors in the know. It’s best to arrive early and avoid going there on weekends to find a place to spread out your towel. Be careful, at high tide the water fills the rock and the sand layer shrinks. Secluded and romantic, we happily stop at Pringha on our way back from a hike to Ponta San Lorenzo for a refreshing swim before continuing our way to the picturesque port of Canical.
Practical information
The beach is served by bus 113 from Funchal. More information on the SAM company website.
Porto Santo, golden beach
8 km of golden sand and crystal clear water. Porto Santo beach looks like paradise. Madeira is not an island, but an archipelago, and to reach this idyllic beach you have to sail towards Funchal, Porto Santo, about 40 km to the northeast. At 2 hours 30 of sailing time, we reach this island of dry land, which spreads over only 45 km². Due to the dryness of the climate and vegetation, it got its nicknameIlha Durada Golden Island. From the port of Porto Santo to Ponta Caleta, at the southwestern end of the island, the beach spreads all these nuances to tourists for more than 8 km. Its gently sloping slope and turquoise waters have often earned it the title of the most beautiful beach in the archipelago. Opt for a short walk to the far south and Ponta Caleta to enjoy a more peaceful and wild setting.
Practical information
Porto Santo Line operates a daily return ferry to/from Funchal. There are also daily flights from Funchal and Lisbon. More information on the Porto Santo Aeroporto website.
Fajã dos Padres, a hidden pearl
The rock, the void and the beach 300m below. You can access this small land cut off from the world via a cable car filled with rock. The journey takes 4 minutes and offers a wonderful panoramic view of the ocean. Below, the pebbly beach, grape vines, palm trees and organic plantations (mango, banana, exotic fruits, etc.) create a wild and preserved environment. You can extend this timeless escape by booking into the estate’s guest room, private but accessible to all, and treat yourself, for an evening, to this little hidden gem all to yourself.
Practical information
The cable car is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm in summer and until 6 pm in winter. Return ticket: €10 per adult and free for children under 11 years old. More information on the Fajã dos Padres website.
Published May 2021, this article is being updated
Source: Le Figaro
