Achadas da Cruz Cable Car is One of a Kind

When it comes to breathtaking natural beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes, Madeira stands in a league of its own. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Among the many gems this paradise offers, the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz is a must-visit attraction that promises an unforgettable experience. It is not yet a popular site to visit as much as some other locations, but this makes it even more enjoyable. In this post, we invite you to experience the cable car with us. Note that we are not fans of cable cars. 

The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz, also known as the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, is a remarkable feat of engineering that allows you to access one of Madeira’s most secluded and stunning spots. It connects the village of Achadas da Cruz, perched on a cliff, to the pebble beach below, providing a bird’s eye view of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.

How to Get to Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz

Getting to Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz is an adventure in itself. Start by making your way to Porto Moniz, a charming town northwest of Madeira. From there, we took a short drive along scenic coastal roads with so many curves that we stopped counting at one point. 

From Funchal by Car

The drive from Funchal to Achadas da Cruz takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, as this hidden gem is 60km from Madeira’s capital city. We recommend driving along the southern coast towards Ponta do Pargo and then going from there, as it’s the fastest route. 

Parking at Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz

Before the cable car, there is a parking lot, free of charge, though parking spaces are limited. If you find a parking space, take it. Don’t try to look for a closer spot. The cable car station is easily accessible from any spot and not far away. The road is paved for the entire way, even to the cable car station, so you don’t need a heavy-duty car to reach it.

Opening Times & Tickets of the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz

The cable car of Achadas da Cruz operates every day from 8 AM to 11.30 AM and from 12.30 PM to 6 PM or 7 PM (depending on the season). In summer, it stays open until 7 PM, while during winter, when the days are shorter, it closes at 6 PM. There is a break during lunchtime for the locals from the village to use the cable car. 

A return ticket costs €5; you buy it directly at the cable car. There is sometimes a line of people, but do not stand there. The people in the line already purchased tickets and wait for the ride. Go upfront, buy the tickets, and then go and stand in the line, which is usually not as long. 

During the opening time, the cable car runs whenever someone is willing to go. The station is very small, but the guy operating it is incredibly nice. Note that at the bottom, no one is operating it, and you get in once people get out. 

A small snack bar is next to the upper cable car station. Besides some very tasty poncha, you will also find freshly squeezed juices, soups, salads, meat, and fish dishes. 

Our Descend in the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz

The cable car is for six people. As it descends, you’ll find yourself between the azure sky and the deep blue sea. The sensation is tranquility and exhilaration as you witness the dramatic landscape unfolding beneath you. The sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the symphony of crashing waves create a sensory overload that is nothing short of mesmerizing. Not to mention, you are in one of the steepest cable cars in Europe. 

It offers a unique perspective on Madeira’s coastline’s raw, untamed beauty, revealing a world of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and crashing waves.

While Madeira is no stranger to tourists, the Achadas da Cruz cable car offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Far from the crowds, you can enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection amidst nature’s grandeur.

Achadas da Cruz, like many coastal areas in Madeira, was initially used for agricultural purposes, particularly for growing sugarcane, which was one of the major crops on the island during the 15th and 16th centuries. The village likely started as a small settlement centered around agriculture.

Today, Achadas da Cruz is known not only for its agricultural heritage but also for its stunning natural landscapes. 

Best time to visit Achadas da Cruz 

If you seek a specific time, plan it for sunset, late in the afternoon when the sun sets over the ocean, lighting up the cliffs around the village and creating a painting-like scenery. Though we came at a random time, it was still breathing; the cliffs knocked the socks off our feet. 

Note for hikers

There is also a possibility to hike down and back up. The Vereda do Calhau is a trail that leads all the way down to Achadas da Cruz. It isn’t a very popular route, but it is in pretty good shape. Some parts have big drop-offs, and some are very steep. Of course, some parts also hold stairs. The trail starts in front of the cable car station and goes down toward the sea. It’s almost 2km long, with a 450m elevation difference. 

The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz is an experience forever in your memory. Although we are not fans of cable cars, this ride was nice. So, if you plan a trip to this idyllic island, include this adventure on your itinerary. It’s an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of our world.

Nearby things to do in the Achadas da Cruz area:

• • Levada Walks. Madeira is famous for its levadas, the irrigation channels that serve as walking paths. There may be levada walks near Achadas da Cruz, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the island.
  • Porto Moniz. This coastal town is known for its natural swimming pools, formed by volcanic rocks. It’s not far from Achadas da Cruz and offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the ocean.
  • Rural and Coastal Trails. Madeira is a paradise for hikers, and you may find various trails in the nearby area that lead through rural landscapes or along the coastline.
  • Fajã do Mar. This is a coastal settlement located nearby, known for its unique setting and tranquility. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

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