Achadas da Cruz, located on the northwestern coast of Madeira, Portugal, is a beautiful and tranquil village that many visitors overlook. With its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great place to experience the natural beauty of Madeira. In this article, I will tell you how to get there and share my own experience of visiting this charming place.
Table of Contents
1. How to Get to Achadas da Cruz
By Car: The most common way to reach Achadas da Cruz is by car. From Funchal, the capital of Madeira, the drive takes about 1 hour. If you’re looking to rent a car, I always recommend using Carwave Madeira. Fully-equipped vehicles with comprehensive insurance coverage, eliminating the need for a security deposit or credit card hold. Book your rental car today. By Public Transport: While there is no direct public transport to Achadas da Cruz, you can take a bus from Funchal to Porto Moniz, a nearby town. From Porto Moniz, you may need to hire a taxi to reach Achadas da Cruz, as the village is not directly accessible by bus. This option can be a bit more time-consuming. Once you arrive in Achadas da Cruz, one of the best ways to reach the lower part of the village, known as Fajã da Quebrada Nova, is by taking the scenic cable car ride.
2. The Scenic Cable Car Ride
The cable car station is located at the top of the cliff in the main part of Achadas da Cruz. As you descend from the cliff, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the rugged coastline, lush green fields, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The ride offers a unique perspective of Madeira’s natural beauty that few other experiences can match. It’s important to check the operating schedule of the cable car before your visit, as it can be affected by weather conditions. The cable car operates daily, weather permitting, but it may be closed on particularly windy days for safety reasons. Ensuring it’s running can save you from disappointment and help you plan your trip better.
3. The Fajã da Quebrada Nova
The Fajã da Quebrada Nova, situated at the base of the coastal cliffs in Achadas da Cruz, was formed by a massive landslide. From the mountain terminus of the cable car, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the former debris plain below, now transformed into sprawling gardens. Initially, the cable car was established to assist farmers, allowing them to travel quickly and comfortably down to their fields. For hikers, the cable car provides a convenient way to ascend the cliffs. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll find yourself in a peaceful, almost untouched area. It’s a great place for nature lovers to explore the unique plants of Madeira. You can also hike down to Fajã da Quebrada Nova. The trail is 3.6 km long and descends steeply, making it a challenging hike that takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. It’s important to note that the last cable car ride down is at 16:30, and the last ride up is at 18:00.
Achadas da Cruz is a hidden gem that captures the essence of Madeira’s natural beauty. Its serene landscapes and unique experiences make Achadas da Cruz a must-visit destination on any trip to Madeira.
By the way, don’t forget to check out my guide to Madeira Island. Creating this map has been a labor of love – it includes top destinations and hikes, various activities, hidden gems, mesmerizing waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, among many other treasures.
Isn’t Madeira a Green Paradise? 🌿✨
This island is a masterpiece of nature—lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. From the mystical Laurisilva forest to the endless levada trails, Madeira feels like stepping into another world.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring volcanic cliffs, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Madeira is a destination that never stops giving.
💡 Planning your trip?
👉🏼 Check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO MADEIRA — your perfect companion to uncover the island’s most stunning spots 💫
🌍 Link in bio 👆🏻
#MadeiraIsland #GreenParadise #ExploreMadeira #greenearth #HikingParadise #Madeira #PrivateGuide #LevadaWalks #DiscoverMadeira #TravelMap #TravelMadeira #HiddenGems #IslandEscape #MadeiraLovers #NatureAtItsBest
Isn’t Madeira a Green Paradise? 🌿✨
This island is a masterpiece of nature—lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. From the mystical Laurisilva forest to the endless levada trails, Madeira feels like stepping into another world.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring volcanic cliffs, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Madeira is a destination that never stops giving.
💡 Planning your trip?
👉🏼 Check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO MADEIRA — your perfect companion to uncover the island’s most stunning spots 💫
🌍 Link in bio 👆🏻
#MadeiraIsland #GreenParadise #ExploreMadeira #greenearth #HikingParadise #Madeira #PrivateGuide #LevadaWalks #DiscoverMadeira #TravelMap #TravelMadeira #HiddenGems #IslandEscape #MadeiraLovers #NatureAtItsBest
What could be better than a peaceful evening hike surrounded by Madeira’s stunning landscapes?
As the sun sets and the island is bathed in golden light, the trails take on a magical charm. The cooler temperatures, the soft sounds of nature, and the breathtaking views make evening hikes an unforgettable experience.
To be honest, evening hikes, just before sunset, are my absolute favorite time to hit the trails. Even the most popular routes feel empty, giving you the rare sense of complete solitude. The landscapes and stunning views feel like they belong only to you, wrapped in the golden hues of the setting sun.
If you ask me whether I’d choose evening hikes over morning ones, my answer would be a resounding 100%! And not just because I’m not a fan of waking up in the dark to an alarm clock 🙂
What about you? Which hike do you prefer — sunrise or sunset?
And if you’re still planning your trip to Madeira, be sure to check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
👉🏼 It covers the best trails, my personal tips, and everything you need for a perfect trip—from top spots to hotels and restaurants 🏨
🔗 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#EveningHike #HikingTrails #SunsetAdventures #HikingParadise #PrivateGuide #GoldenHourLight #MadeiraIsland #HikingAddict #DiscoverMadeira #HikingTrip #SunsetHike #IslandMagic #Madeira #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreMadeira #TravelMap #hikingvibes
What could be better than a peaceful evening hike surrounded by Madeira’s stunning landscapes?
As the sun sets and the island is bathed in golden light, the trails take on a magical charm. The cooler temperatures, the soft sounds of nature, and the breathtaking views make evening hikes an unforgettable experience.
To be honest, evening hikes, just before sunset, are my absolute favorite time to hit the trails. Even the most popular routes feel empty, giving you the rare sense of complete solitude. The landscapes and stunning views feel like they belong only to you, wrapped in the golden hues of the setting sun.
If you ask me whether I’d choose evening hikes over morning ones, my answer would be a resounding 100%! And not just because I’m not a fan of waking up in the dark to an alarm clock 🙂
What about you? Which hike do you prefer — sunrise or sunset?
And if you’re still planning your trip to Madeira, be sure to check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
👉🏼 It covers the best trails, my personal tips, and everything you need for a perfect trip—from top spots to hotels and restaurants 🏨
🔗 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#EveningHike #HikingTrails #SunsetAdventures #HikingParadise #PrivateGuide #GoldenHourLight #MadeiraIsland #HikingAddict #DiscoverMadeira #HikingTrip #SunsetHike #IslandMagic #Madeira #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreMadeira #TravelMap #hikingvibes
Imagine a short trail leading to a staircase carved into the rocks, taking you to one of the most breathtaking views on the island. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Now picture standing there at sunrise, with a panoramic view stretching over lush landscapes of Santana. No crowds, no distractions—just you and the beauty of nature.
This spot is more than a viewpoint; it’s an experience waiting to be uncovered 😉
Hidden gems like this remind us why Madeira is a true paradise for explorers 🌿🥾
📍Miradouro do Pico Redondo, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
These uncovered treasures are what make Madeira so special. And the best part? There’s so much more to discover. From secret viewpoints to lesser-known trails, you’ll find countless hidden gems and true treasures in MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗link in bio👆🏻
#HiddenGems #PicoRedondo #ExploreMadeira #Madeira #DiscoverMadeira #MadeiraIsland #SunriseView #SunriseSky #OffTheBeatenPath #Trailblazing #TravelMadeira #VisitMadeira #TravelDiscoveries #SecretSpot #MadeiraLovers #ScenicViews #PrivateGuide #HiddenSpot #WorthTheHike #TravelMap #Sunrisemagic #HiddenTreasures #HiddenGem
Imagine a short trail leading to a staircase carved into the rocks, taking you to one of the most breathtaking views on the island. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Now picture standing there at sunrise, with a panoramic view stretching over lush landscapes of Santana. No crowds, no distractions—just you and the beauty of nature.
This spot is more than a viewpoint; it’s an experience waiting to be uncovered 😉
Hidden gems like this remind us why Madeira is a true paradise for explorers 🌿🥾
📍Miradouro do Pico Redondo, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
These uncovered treasures are what make Madeira so special. And the best part? There’s so much more to discover. From secret viewpoints to lesser-known trails, you’ll find countless hidden gems and true treasures in MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗link in bio👆🏻
#HiddenGems #PicoRedondo #ExploreMadeira #Madeira #DiscoverMadeira #MadeiraIsland #SunriseView #SunriseSky #OffTheBeatenPath #Trailblazing #TravelMadeira #VisitMadeira #TravelDiscoveries #SecretSpot #MadeiraLovers #ScenicViews #PrivateGuide #HiddenSpot #WorthTheHike #TravelMap #Sunrisemagic #HiddenTreasures #HiddenGem
There’s something magical about chasing the first rays of sunlight, especially when you find a spot that offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. This place didn’t disappoint—the sky lit up with shades of purple, orange and pink, creating the perfect moment to start the day.
Whether you’re an early riser or need a little motivation to wake up, this sunrise location is well worth it. It’s not just about the view but the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of connection to nature that Madeira offers so generously.
📍Miradouro do Guindaste, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
✈️Planning your Madeira trip?
👉🏼My INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️features even more incredible locations, including the BEST SUNRISE & SUNSET SPOTS across the island💫
🧞♂️It’s your go-to for discovering the magic of Madeira
🌍 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#ExploreMadeira #SunriseMagic #TravelMap #ScenicView #BucketListDestination #MadeiraIsland #sunrises_and_sunsets #SunriseLover #MadeiraHikes #TravelMadeira #HiddenGem #PrivateGuide #TravelMap #DiscoverMadeira #Madeira #DawnToday #sunrisesky #OceanCliff #BucketListAdventures #sunrise_sunset #MadeiraGuide #sunrise_sunset_worldwide #VisitMadeira
There’s something magical about chasing the first rays of sunlight, especially when you find a spot that offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. This place didn’t disappoint—the sky lit up with shades of purple, orange and pink, creating the perfect moment to start the day.
Whether you’re an early riser or need a little motivation to wake up, this sunrise location is well worth it. It’s not just about the view but the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of connection to nature that Madeira offers so generously.
📍Miradouro do Guindaste, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
✈️Planning your Madeira trip?
👉🏼My INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️features even more incredible locations, including the BEST SUNRISE & SUNSET SPOTS across the island💫
🧞♂️It’s your go-to for discovering the magic of Madeira
🌍 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#ExploreMadeira #SunriseMagic #TravelMap #ScenicView #BucketListDestination #MadeiraIsland #sunrises_and_sunsets #SunriseLover #MadeiraHikes #TravelMadeira #HiddenGem #PrivateGuide #TravelMap #DiscoverMadeira #Madeira #DawnToday #sunrisesky #OceanCliff #BucketListAdventures #sunrise_sunset #MadeiraGuide #sunrise_sunset_worldwide #VisitMadeira
