'Raposeira de São João' is an ideal base for all kinds of activities that make a stay in Madeira so attractive. There is one of the famous 'Levada walks' nearby: at a distance of only 200 m there is a connection to the Levada Nova that runs from Prazeres to Ponta do Pargo. If you don't mind a small climb you can also get your fresh bread in the morning on foot, in one many 'bar-minimercado's' of Madeira Island. They will happily serve you a delicious 'bica' (espresso coffee) or 'chinesa" (cappucino). In the minimercado you will find most of your daily shopping needs.
For a larger supermarket you take a leisurely drive to Calheta. The ‘Pingo Doce’ (sweet Penguïn) has a complete assortment assortiment. In Calheta you will also find one on the few (man-made) sandy beaches in Madeira. On the marina boulevard and in the main street there are plenty of restaurants to have a delicious lunch or dinner. You will be pleasantly surprised at the prices of eating out in Madeira. The small shoppng centre also has a cash point.
Another cashpoint is in nearby Prazeres, and there is one in Paúl do Mar. Treat yourself to a drink or lunch in ‘o Precipicio’ (the abyss), a small bar and restaurant that balances on the edge of the steep cliffs with a breathtaking view on Paúl do Mar and the road winding down towards it. The road seems more challenging than it really is, you will pass through some ancient tunnels, coursly cut through the rocks, some of the oldest in the island that were made to end the isolation of Paúl do Mar, that could only be reached over the sea not too long ago. The once decaying willage is gradually restaured. Now, it is a picturesque place. Take it in having a drink under the ficus tree near the old fishing harbour.
From Paúl do Mar, a new tunnel now takes you to Jardim do Mar, a network of flowering alleys form a characteristic village that is very much worth visiting.
Going in Northwesterly direction from 'Raposeira de São João' you can follow the ER222 to Porto Moniz. A scenic road, taking you through refreshing eucalyptus forests with - depending on the season – abundantly blooming shoulders with agapanthus or hydrangea. The blue and white is regularly varied with the bright orange nasturtium that grows and blooms everywhere in the wild in Madeira. The final descent to Porto Moniz gives a spectacular panorama of the steep cliffs and the ocean. Madeira at its very best.
We have prepared a folder for you with possibilities and route descriptions. There is also a small guide of the levada walks for you to consult. Your Madeira time will fly...