Cascata dos Anjos

Waterfalls in Calheta (Madeira)

Cascata dos Anjos, situated just outside Ponta do Sol on Madeira Island, Portugal, is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades over the old highway ER 101, creating a stunning natural spectacle.

To reach Cascata dos Anjos, when traveling west from Ribeira Brava to Madalena do Mar on road VE3, take the exit at a roundabout leading to Ponta do Sol. Many visitors choose to park their cars before the old tunnel, but it’s permitted to drive further. Continue along the old road for a little over 1 kilometer until you reach a sign in Portuguese that reads “exceto moradores,” meaning “except residents.” This is where you can park your car along the road (GPS coordinates: 32.687640, -17.115570), and the waterfall is just a short two-hundred-meter walk from there.

Many people enjoy walking along the seaside road to get close to Cascata dos Anjos and even stand beneath it for a refreshing shower. Children often play in the waterfall, and on warm days, it becomes a popular spot. In October 2023, the weather was particularly warm, reaching 30°C, making it an ideal day for such an adventure. Some cars may need to turn around further down the road to navigate under the waterfall, so be prepared for a short wait.

Cascata dos Anjos, which translates to “waterfall of the Angels,” descends gracefully from the surrounding cliffs, creating a magical mist that dances in the air. The lush green surroundings enhance the picturesque setting, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Local legend has it that the waterfall earned its celestial name from a story passed down through generations. According to the tale, angels descended from the heavens to bathe in the refreshing waters of the waterfall, leaving behind an otherworldly energy that continues to enchant visitors. Whether you believe in the folklore or not, the sense of magic and wonder that surrounds Cascata dos Anjos is undeniably captivating.

Cascata dos Anjos is one of the most remarkable waterfalls on Madeira Island, where a waterfall crossing a road is a unique sight. With its considerable volume and a height ranging from approximately 30 to 90 meters, it’s a sight to behold. Despite the island’s dry conditions and a lack of rain in recent months, the waterfall still flowed, offering a refreshing contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. The island faced drought, and some trees were shedding their leaves, while bush fires had occurred west of the waterfall near Prazeres. Fortunately, rain arrived as we were leaving, bringing hope for nature’s recovery and regeneration.

The Cascata dos Anjos appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Calheta (Madeira)!

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