Cabo Girão and Fajã dos Padres on Madeira Island

Cabo Girão and Fajã dos Padres on Madeira Island

Cabo Girão and Fajã dos Padres are two of the most fascinating destinations on Madeira Island, located on the south coast in the municipality of Câmara de Lobos. These locations offer a unique combination of stunning scenery, rich history and cultural experiences.

Cabo Girão

Cabo Girão is famous for being the second highest cape in Europe, standing at 560 metres above sea level. The panoramic views from the cape are spectacular, providing stunning views of the ocean and the mountains of Madeira. Cabo Girão has a glass observation deck, the Cabo Girão Skywalk, which allows visitors to walk on the glass and experience the thrill of standing over the abyss.

Fajã dos Padres

Fajã dos Padres is a small stretch of fertile land situated between the sea and steep cliffs, a few kilometres from Cabo Girão. The name "Fajã" refers to a flat and arable land, and "Padres" indicates that the land belonged to the priests of the Society of Jesus. Fajã dos Padres is known for its beautiful pebble beaches and its ideal conditions for fishing and hiking.

History and Culture

The history of Fajã dos Padres dates back to the beginning of the settlement of Madeira, with records of agricultural activities dating back to the 15th century. Fajã dos Padres was an important center for the production of Malvasia wine, a wine that gained international fame and was exported to various parts of the world. Until 1998, access to Fajã dos Padres could only be made by boat, but today it is possible to descend using a panoramic cable car installed in 2016.

Attractions and Activities

In addition to the stunning views and beaches, Fajã dos Padres offers a variety of activities for visitors. The Fajã dos Padres cable car provides a scenic ride of approximately 300 meters, offering spectacular views of the southern coast of Madeira. Fajã dos Padres also has a restaurant, beach and fishing facilities, and guest houses for short-term stays.

Getting There

Fajã dos Padres is easily accessible via well-paved roads. The Fajã dos Padres cable car is located approximately 28.5 km from Madeira Airport and approximately 10 km from Funchal. Access to the cable car is via the Padre António Dinis Henriques road, and parking is available near the cable car.

Conclusion

Cabo Girão and Fajã dos Padres are must-see destinations for anyone visiting Madeira. With their stunning scenery, rich history, and a variety of activities, these locations offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these natural and cultural treasures of Madeira Island.