The cable car in Achadas da Cruz is a sight to behold (Picture: Getty Images/imageBROKER RF)
Thousands of tourists flock to Madeira every year, lured in by it’s mountain peaks, dramatic green valleys and rugged coastline, which have led many to describe it as ‘the real life Jurassic Park’.
A Portuguese island, but closer to the coast of Africa, Lonely Planet say it’s deserving of its many ‘fanciful nicknames’ which include the Pearl of the Atlantic, the Hawaii of Europe and the Island of Eternal Spring.
So with the promise of so much to explore, where to start?
Achadas da Cruz is a small village and parish on the north-western coast of Madeira and, home to just 129 residents, its also where you’ll find one of Europe’s steepest cable cars.
The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz rises to an incredible 451 metres above sea level with a dizzying 98% gradient — treating those who dare to brave it with quite possibly the most dazzling views in Europe.
The area itself is also worth a visit, offering a peaceful escape from bigger towns such as Funchal and Machico.
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All you need to know about Madeira’s cable car
The cable car was originally built to transport farmers and their produce up and down the cliffside.
Open every day from 8am to 11:30am and 12:30pm to 7pm, it travels down a near-vertical drop, connecting the Achadas da Cruz area, to a small pebble beach below.
Plus, it’s cheap, with the price of a return ticket set at just £4.34 (€5).
It’s one of the steepest in Europe (Picture: Getty Images)
Parking is available in the village, at the top of the cable car. Then, if you’re feeling peckish, you can grab a bite to eat from Calhau snack bar at the top of the cliff. With a panoramic terrace, this is the perfect place to calm your nerves before the descent.
The actual cable car journey should only take five minutes, however it’s recommended you give yourselves 20 minutes to an hour to visit the seafront and admire the surrounding area.
On your way down, make sure to look out for the Faja de Quebrada Nova, the farmland at the foot of the cliff.
It’s less than £5 to take a trip (Picture: VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
You’ll see the volcanic landscape of Achadas da Cruz beach to the north, and to the south, you’ll notice a number of small traditional stone houses, used to keep the farmer’s tools safe.
Make sure to also look straight ahead of you. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better view of the Atlantic Ocean.
More things to do in Achadas da Cruz
If you’re planning a trip to the area, there are a few other sights and activities you might want to jot down:
- Hiking: Madeira is known for its incredible hiking routes, and this area is no exception. The Calhau Trail Loop is a favourite, closely followed by the Levada do Moinho Waterfall Loop and the Levada Staircase Waterfall Loop.
- Natural swimming pools: Close by are the natural pools of Porto Moniz. With sun loungers, parasols, and a selection of beautiful pools to enjoy, this is a perfect place to unwind.
- Viewpoints: Alongside the cable car, there are a number of other unique viewpoints in the area. One favourite, recommended by visitors, is Miradouro Ribeira da Janela — slightly more inland, but well worth a visit.
- Achadas da Cruz Museum: You can also visit the local museum, housing traditional artifacts, photographs, and stories that provide insights into the daily life and customs of the local community.
How to get to Madeira from the UK
Why not take an idyllic afternoon stroll right next to the Atlantic Ocean (Picture: Getty Images)
The easiest way to get to Achadas da Cruz from the UK is by flying directly to Madeira.
Flying the first week of June, a return trip from Stansted will cost you £132. However, if you’re not fussed about returning to the same airport, you can purchase flights for just £107.
Once you land in Funchal Airport, the cheapest way to get to Achadas da Cruz is to take the bus, which will only cost approximately £2. However, it will take you around two hours and 40 minutes.
If you want to arrive at your final destination faster, you’re better off renting a car and driving yourself. This option should mean you’re in the village in under an hour.
This article was first published on April 23, 2026.
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