Situated at the northwestern tip of Madeira Island, Calhau das Achadas da Cruz holds significant importance in the Porto Moniz municipality, thanks to its breathtaking scenery. Nestled amidst majestic mountains and the vibrant sea, this location has become increasingly popular for its distinctive beauty.

A notable attraction here is the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, linking the Achadas da Cruz area with Fajã da Quebrada Nova. Upon reaching this ‘fajã,’ visitors can relish the tranquility of a small pebble beach, but the real delight lies in the journey itself.

As the cable car ascends the steep slope, it offers a panoramic and truly awe-inspiring view of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean contrasting with the lush green of the mountains. In the backdrop, you’ll find the ‘fajã’ adorned with cultivated fields. The cable car was primarily established to support local farmers in reaching their fields and transporting their bountiful harvests, given the area’s high agricultural productivity.

An alternative way to reach the village is by hiking down a 2-kilometer trail. This trail offers a direct route, although it’s important to note that it can be quite steep and may not be suitable for everyone. However, I personally found it to be well-maintained and relatively safe, with a wide path despite the significant drop-offs along the way. It’s worth mentioning that the hiking trail begins at the same parking lot as the cable car, providing travelers with both transportation options to access the village.

For those seeking a different path, Calhau das Achadas da Cruz can also be accessed via the Vereda do Calhau or Vereda da Ladeira trails.

The Calhau das Achadas da Cruz appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Porto Moniz (Madeira)!

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