On the southern west coast is Calheta a charming village set below a steep cliff and blessed with a wide variety of natural beauty. Calheta consists of 8 parishes over 116 km2, making it one of the largest regions in Madeira . It was first discovered in June 1502 and governed by Zarco´s children making it one of the oldest regions in Madeira , and was originally a customs post for sugar exports.

Calheta now boasts a beautiful little marina and a man-made golden sand beach which is visited by tourists and locals alike. During the summer the beaches get really full so it is recommended that you arrive early to get a favorable spot.

Approximately 15kms´s into its interior you find Rabaçal where you may see one of Madeira´s finest breathtaking waterfalls. A walk down to Rabaçal is highly recommended and should not be given a miss.

A wide variety of natural vegetation, indigenous and exotic alike are found all over the region of Calheta. Banana´s , wine and sugar cane is widely produced here by the locals. Should you be interested how rum is made you may visit Calheta´s own rum distillery called the “Engenho da Calheta”. Here you are allowed to wonder around and see how white rum is made.

Calheta also has a large selection of historical churches and places to visit each unique in their own way.