Madeira & Azores Tourism Guide - Ribeira Brava

Ribeira Brava Guide, Madeira West

Ribeira Brava translates as wild river. The river running parallel with the road from Ribeira Brava over to the north and Sao Vicente has wild moments, but generally not in the peak summer months.

Around this quaint Madeira mini town come increasingly tourist resort there's a fine selection of cafes (the coffee here is divine!) plus a selection of chic clothes shops which do well with the visiting crowds. Gift shops and arts and crafts galore are also here. Ribeira Brava dresses up annually on 29th June when it celebrates the Feast of St Peter.

Checkout the historic church of Sao Bento, notable for its Baroque bell tower and clock which dates from the 15th century. Move inside to discover original Manueline arches.

The Museu Ethnografico da Madeira (Ethnographical Museum) in Ribeira Brava is well worth a look. With a focus on the history of arts and crafts on Madeira, including displays of handicrafts such as weaving, fishing and farming, this museum takes a different slant on Madeira s story. It's housed in an old rum distillery and sugar cane mill which dates from the 16th century and there s a cafe and shop on-site. Find it on Rua da Sao Francisco 24, Ribeira Brava, Madeira. Tel. 291 952 598. Its open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 10am to 12.30pm, 2pm to 6pm.

Ribeira Brava River Valley & Encumeada

You're in for a treat driving up from Ribeira Brava north, as the road pushes through Madeira s most beautiful river valley, then up to the miradouro/viewpoint at Encumeada. There are stop-off cafes along the way. The scenery all the way up to Encumeada, and down to Sao Vicente in the north is stunning indeed, and there are numerous pull-over stops along the way so you can take your time and enjoy.

The drive is winding in parts, but not Madeira's most challenging drive - it's highly recommended!

Ribeira Brava Tourist Information

Ribeira Brava Tourist Info Office, Sao Bento Fort, Ribeira Brava, Madeira. Tel. (351) 291 951 675.