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Towns · North-westReview

Achadas da Cruz: town in Madeira

Achadas da Cruz sits in the municipality of Porto Moniz, Madeira. Its population is around 300.

Westernmost parish of Porto Moniz, perched 450 m above its own fajã reached only by foot or cable car.

Edited by Madeira Info Editorial·Last checked

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Municipality
Porto Moniz
Population
300
Region
North-west
Coordinates
32.8529, -17.2097

About Achadas da Cruz

Achadas da Cruz is part of the municipality of Porto Moniz, with a population of around 300

Achadas da Cruz sits where thick laurisilva forest and waterfalls meet the sea, which shapes its layout and its everyday rhythm: fishing, agriculture, and increasingly tourism. Spending half a day here gives a much better feel for the island than only visiting Funchal.

What to know before you go

  • Most cafés, bakeries and family-run restaurants take cards; small village shops sometimes still prefer cash for under €5.
  • Buses run a handful of times a day on the north and west coasts, a rental car removes the timetable problem entirely.
  • Old-town streets are tight and one-way; use the signed car parks on the outskirts and walk the last few minutes in.

Best time to visit

Achadas da Cruz is comfortable year-round, but spring and early autumn give the best mix of warm afternoons and low cloud cover.

Location

North-west, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps

32.85290, -17.20970

Visitor reviews

Honest first-person notes from people who have actually been to Achadas da Cruz. Reviews are moderated before they appear, no account needed.

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Frequently asked

Is Achadas da Cruz worth visiting?

Yes. Achadas da Cruz shows a quieter, more local side of Madeira than central Funchal, and pairs naturally with the trails, beaches and viewpoints in the same valley.

How do I get to Achadas da Cruz from Funchal?

Allow 45–75 minutes from Funchal via the VE1 and the north-coast tunnels, the drive itself is one of the scenic highlights.

Plan around Achadas da Cruz

The nearest town, viewpoint and walk: the three things most visitors pair with Achadas da Cruz in a day.

ViewpointsMiradouro da Garganta Funda5.3 km awayTrailsLevada do Moinho2.1 km awayBeachesPorto Moniz Natural Pools3.8 km away

Nearby on Madeira

Other places within easy reach of Achadas da Cruz.

Trails
Levada do Moinho
2.1 km
Trails
Levada da Central da Ribeira da Janela
3.8 km
Beaches
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
3.8 km
Towns
Porto Moniz
3.8 km
Trails
Levada da Ribeira da Janela
4.0 km
Trails
Vereda da Achadas da Cruz
5.0 km

Plan the rest of your trip

The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.

GuideMadeira travel guideThe full island in one long read.Plans3, 5 & 7-day itinerariesReady-made road-trip plans.WeatherMonth-by-month climateAir, sea, rain and sun by month.TipsFirst-timer travel tipsCar hire, parishes, red flags.

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