Established in 1501, the village of Ponta do Sol was limited at east by the cliff beside the church up to the mountain ridge excluding all territory that belong to João Esmeraldo which should continue to concern to Funchal. On the west Ponta do Sol was expanded until Ponta do Tristão.

The fertile soil of this village made the production of sugarcanes very important for the economic development of this village. Joined to this agricultural activity the commerce of sugar started to operate big ships that loaded in Ponta do Sol.

A harbour was needed but for this it was necessary a big construction, the so called bridge of Tojo, that would give access to the pier. This edification started to be built in 1848 and until 1874 there was always something more to be done.

Photo by Hugo Romano

Photo by Hugo Romano

The main attraction of Porto Moniz village is its natural swimming pool surrounded by lava rocks and filled in with crystal clear water, by the tide.
Not only for their excellent bathing conditions but also for their beauty, these natural pools are the perfect place for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing or even just for a visit. This beach complex also provides a kindergarten and facilities for the disabled.

Photo by Miguel Fagundes

Ponta Delgada is a village on the North of Madeira, east of São Vicente, built on a tongue of land due to a landslip. Its main attraction is a church dedicated to Senhor do Bom Jesus, built in 1745, 27 meters high from sea level. On the east side of the church it has two seawater swimming pools where you can relax and enjoy the cliff that surrounds you.

With only 1325 habitants, one of the most popular festivities in Madeira is in Ponta Delgada. Annually, on the 15th of August, thousands of persons get together to celebrate the village patron, Senhor do Bom Jesus.

Photo by Miguel Fagundes

Photo by Miguel Fagundes

Fanal is situated half way up from Ribeira da Janela to the high plateau Paúl da Serra. It is mainly characterized by the centenarians Fetid Laurels (Ocotea foetens) that date before the discovery of the island.

A small but well preserved crater is possible to be seen just a few meters down the road entrance to the ranger’s house of Fanal.

Photo by Hugo Romano

Photo by Hugo Romano

The only camping park in Madeira Island is on the North of the Island, in Ribeira da Janela, close to the river mouth, near an hydroelectric power plant. The nearest village is Porto Moniz, about 5 km distance, where the camping park was before it was moved to Ribeira da Janela.

Photo by Catarina Fagundes