Thousands of tourists flock to Madeira each year, drawn by its mountain peaks, dramatic green valleys, and rugged coastline, which have earned it the nickname 'the real-life Jurassic Park.' This Portuguese island, located closer to the coast of Africa, is described by Lonely Planet as deserving of its many 'fanciful nicknames,' including the Pearl of the Atlantic, the Hawaii of Europe, and the Island of Eternal Spring.
For those wondering where to start exploring, Achadas da Cruz is a small village and parish on the north-western coast of Madeira. Home to just 129 residents, it is also the site of one of Europe's steepest cable cars. The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz rises to an incredible 451 meters above sea level with a dizzying 98% gradient, treating those who brave it to some of the most dazzling views in Europe. The area itself offers a peaceful escape from larger towns like Funchal and Machico.
Details on Madeira's Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz Cable Car
Originally built to transport farmers and their produce up and down the cliffside, the cable car operates daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. It descends a near-vertical drop, connecting Achadas da Cruz to a small pebble beach below. A return ticket costs just £4.34 (€5), making it an affordable attraction. Parking is available in the village at the top of the cable car. For refreshments, the Calhau snack bar at the top of the cliff offers a panoramic terrace, perfect for calming nerves before the descent.
The cable car journey itself takes only five minutes, but visitors are encouraged to spend 20 minutes to an hour exploring the seafront and surrounding area. During the descent, look for the Faja de Quebrada Nova, the farmland at the foot of the cliff. To the north, you'll see the volcanic landscape of Achadas da Cruz beach, and to the south, traditional stone houses used to store farmers' tools. Straight ahead, the view of the Atlantic Ocean is unparalleled.
Other Activities in Achadas da Cruz
If you're planning a trip to the area, consider these additional sights and activities:
- Hiking: Madeira is renowned for its hiking routes. Popular trails include the Calhau Trail Loop, the Levada do Moinho Waterfall Loop, and the Levada Staircase Waterfall Loop.
- Natural Swimming Pools: The nearby natural pools of Porto Moniz offer sun loungers, parasols, and beautiful pools for relaxation.
- Viewpoints: Beyond the cable car, Miradouro Ribeira da Janela is a favorite viewpoint slightly inland.
- Achadas da Cruz Museum: This local museum houses traditional artifacts, photographs, and stories that provide insights into the daily life and customs of the community.
How to Get to Madeira from the UK
The easiest way to reach Achadas da Cruz from the UK is by flying directly to Madeira. For example, a return trip from Stansted in early June costs £132, or £107 if you return to a different airport. Once at Funchal Airport, the cheapest option to reach Achadas da Cruz is by bus, costing approximately £2 but taking about two hours and 40 minutes. For a faster journey, renting a car allows you to reach the village in under an hour.
