Madeira & Azores Tourism Guide - Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz Madeira Resort Guide

Porto Moniz on the north west coast of Madeira is around 48km from Funchal (but allow ample time if you're driving from Funchal via the Encumeada pass, down to Sao Vicente and across along the coast road - the driving is mountainous and demanding). The northern coast road from Sao Vicente to Porto Moniz (allow around 45 minutes) was built after the 2nd World War and painstaking work it was too, carving this road into the mountains, hence there's a few tunnels with the distinctive free car wash along the way. Base yourself here in Porto Moniz and expect good basic resort facilities close to hand. Porto Moniz has its own tourist information office, and buses run to Sao Vicente.

The acclaimed seafood restaurants in Porto Moniz fill up in peak season particularly, so book ahead. Porto Moniz was formally Ponta do Tristao, but changed in 1533 in ode to Francisco Moniz an Algarve notable and relative to discoverer Zarco. Moniz built the Nossa Senhora da Conceicao church here.

One of the biggest attractions in Porto Moniz is its naturally formed coastal lido - easily the prettiest on Madeira. These naturally formed volcanic lava pools have been tastefully manipulated into a lido, with walkways and connecting bridges. Other recently added attractions in Porto Moniz include the cable car which now links Porto Moniz with Achadas da Cruz.

Other attractions within the village include the Bordarte Souvenirs shop - guaranteed gift purchasing of arts and crafts in here. Folk music, particularly 'Songs of the Sea' are associated with Porto Moniz, which celebrates its 'Week of the Sea' festival annually in the first week of August. Checkout too Porto Moniz's Living Science Centre. It's a mix of science and cultural exhibitions, and lots of interactive stuff goes on here which will appeal to children.