Ponta Delgada is a picturesque parish on the northern coast of Madeira, known for its stunning coastal scenery, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The area features a beautiful bathing complex with saltwater pools, scenic walking paths, and the historic Dr. Horácio Bento de Gouveia House-Museum. Ponta Delgada is also famous for its annual "Arraial do Bom Jesus" festival, which attracts visitors from across the island.
Ponta Delgada (Madeira) is a small parish on the north coast of the island, within the municipality of São Vicente. It is distinct from the larger and better-known Ponta Delgada in the Azores, and here it represents a rural, coastal community deeply tied to agriculture, religion, and the sea.
Historian Gaspar Frutuoso described it as a “slender tip of land vanishing into the sea” in the 16th century.
The Imaculado Coração de Maria church, dating back to the 15th century, is a focal point of the community. Fertile Soils: Known for producing wheat, sugarcane, and later wine, reflecting centuries of agricultural adaptation. Complexo Balnear da Ponta Delgada: A seaside bathing complex with saltwater pools, popular in summer. Dramatic Atlantic views, terraced fields, and miradouros (viewpoints) along the cliffs.
Ribeira da Janela is a tranquil parish located on the northern coast of Madeira, in the municipality of Porto Moniz. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, the parish is named after its river, the longest watercourse on the island, which flows from the Paul da Serra plateau to the Atlantic Ocean. The area is famous for its unique rock formations, including the "Islets of Ribeira da Janela," which feature a distinctive rock with a window-like opening. Ribeira da Janela is also a popular destination for hiking, surfing, and rural tourism, offering a camping park and scenic viewpoints.
Ribeira da Janela is a dramatic coastal spot on Madeira’s north shore, famous for its volcanic sea stacks, pebble beach, and lush Laurissilva forest. It’s both a natural wonder and a cultural landmark, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations.
It is situated between Seixal and Porto Moniz on Madeira’s northwest coast.
The Ribeira da Janela river originates in the central mountains and flows into the Atlantic here, giving the parish its name.
The Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela are towering volcanic sea stacks. One has a natural “window” opening, which inspired the name “Janela” (window). Praia da Ribeira da Janela is not ideal for swimming but attracts surfers thanks to strong Atlantic waves. A short pedestrian tunnel leads to a balcony overlooking the sea stacks, perfect for photography and sunrise views.
