Nestled on Madeira’s south coast, Calhau da Lapa is a true hidden treasure, perfect for travelers in search of nature and tranquility. Accessed by a steep path and no fewer than 700 steps, this site offers a secluded beach surrounded by spectacular volcanic cliffs. And troglodyte houses dating back 3 centuries. Calhau da Lapa promises an authentic experience away from the crowds, ideal for exploring Madeira’s wild beauty.
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit Calhau da Lapa
Is this natural site worth a visit? Our opinion:
Yes, Calhau da Lapa is definitely worth a visit! Especially if you’re looking for a picturesque, quiet and wild spot. We were charmed by the pebble beach, surrounded by volcanic cliffs. We were absolutely fascinated by the troglodyte houses that have survived the centuries! Although you have to climb 700 steps to reach the site, the effort is well worth it: Calhau da Lapa is a must for lovers of nature and authenticity. It’s also an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. As this confidential cove is not very touristic, we count on you to respect the place and the life of the locals during your visit.
This is one of Madeira’s most beautiful spots!
Our favorite moments
- Hiking in the heart of the basalt cliffs
- Discover troglodyte houses dating back 3 centuries
- Bathing in the island’s clearest waters
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How to get to Calhau da Lapa Beach: access and map
Where is Calhau da Lapa?
- On Madeira’s south coast
- In the village of Campanário
- Driving time from Funchal: 20min
- Driving time from Camara de Lobos: 10min
- Driving time from Ribeira Brava: 10min
Here is a map to help you find your way:
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
How to get there? Access road
Car_ To get to Calhau da Lapa, the car is the most practical way, as it’s not a tourist destination served by public transport.
Bus_ Alternatively, you can take the bus to the village of Campanário, then walk for about 30min. However, the passages are not very regular. View timetables and plan your journey here.
Boat_ From May to September, boat transfers are available from Ribeira Brava. However, this option requires traveling in a group and contacting a local who owns a boat and offers its servicesas a “cab boat“.
You can also discover Calhau da Lapa from the sea on a whale-watching sailing trip along the coast of Madeira! – See photos, prices and book
Parking
Parking is available in the area near the trailhead. Especially those at school. At weekends, there’s plenty of room. On the other hand, it can be more complicated on weekdays when there’s school, unless you come early.
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Best time to visit
We advise you to come to Calhau da Lapa early in the morning and on weekdays. This way, you can enjoy the trail and the beach without being disturbed by other visitors. You’ll also avoid the locals who often visit this part of the island at weekends. Finally, if possible, avoid rainy days, as the ground could be slippery.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow at least 1 hour to get to the beach and back. The return journey takes longer than the outward journey, as the many steps have to be climbed. Note that this is a short hike, but the 700 steps, some of which are steep and uneven, may be difficult for some people with walking difficulties or knee pain. We recommend that you wear good shoes.
Here’s some information about the walk:
- Level of difficulty: moderate to difficult. The first part is easy and flat, but the second part, including the stairs, is rather difficult.
- Distance and time: 1km to beach, approx. 20min walk
- Ascent: approx. 170m
Advice on how to visit
There is only one way to visit here. Making the round trip to the beach is the only option, as the Verada do Paço trail is the only way to get there. The start is at Pont de Campanario, near the school.
Catering, Toilets and Facilities
There are no facilities along the path or on the beach. On the other hand, you’ll find a fresh fish restaurant at the cove.
Alternatively, if you haven’t packed a picnic, we recommend that you head back up to Funchal. The city is home to some very fine restaurants. Discover our favorite addresses in our article dedicated to the best restaurants in Funchal.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
Volcanic hike to the beach
To get to Calhau da Lapa, a secret little corner of paradise, you need to walk a little. The picturesque path leading to the creek is well signposted, well maintained and equipped with railings. The first part of the route is easy, but the second has many steep, uneven steps down the cliff.
We enjoyed walking along the gorge that leads to the ocean. The views from the trail are magnificent. You’ll see basalt cliffs, coastline, sea and the lush vegetation of Flower Island, which delicately dresses the volcanic rock. We recommend taking the time to pause and observe this spellbinding landscape.
Observation of the Calhau da Lapa waterfall
Along the way, keep your eyes and ears open for the pretty Cascade de Calhau da Lapa. We loved this waterfall, which adds a picturesque, wild and refreshing aspect to the walk. The water bounces off the black cliff, hydrating the flora clinging to it.
However, you should be aware that the waterfall may be dry during your visit. In fact, when temperatures rise or it hasn’t rained for a while, some waterfalls can dry out temporarily.
Discover troglodyte houses
The troglodyte houses are one of the reasons we enjoyed visiting Calhau da Lapa so much! They make this place unique! Nestled inside the basalt cliffs, they have watched over the pebble beach for some 300 years. These 20 singular dwellings are thought to have been dug out by the island’s first inhabitants! They are still in use today: during our visit, fishermen were peacefully sipping coffee in front of the ocean.
These troglodyte houses add a fascinating cultural and historical dimension to the natural beauty of Calhau da Lapa. They offered us a unique insight into the history and traditional way of life of this region of Madeira.
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Arrival at the picturesque beach of Calhau da Lapa
Once you’ve discovered all the above and descended the almost 700 steps to the bottom of the cliff, you’ll finally discover the pebble beach. The panorama offered by the beach, ocean and troglodyte houses is absolutely fascinating!
The large rocks don’t make this cove very comfortable for sunbathing. If you’d like to go for a swim, we recommend using the pontoon, which provides easy access to the water. The water at Calhau da Lapa is said to be the clearest in Madeira. What do you think? We weren’t struck by the difference…
Take time to observe the surrounding scenery. Once again, the basalt rock contrasts wonderfully with the vegetation that has grown up there. It’s a typical landscape of the Isle of Flowers.
Other nearby attractions
You can combine your visit to Calhau da Lapa with these nearby attractions:
- Stroll to Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village nestled in a picturesque bay (10min drive).
- Visit Funchal, Madeira’s capital (20min drive).
We loved its rich heritage, lush green landscapes and traditional cuisine, making it an ideal place to get away from it all. You’ll be charmed by the legendary hospitality of the locals in this city full of surprises and contrasts. - Discover Ribeira Brava and its relaxed atmosphere (10min drive).
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