Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz, located on the dramatic northwestern tip of Madeira Island, is a municipality renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, particularly its unique volcanic swimming pools. This remote yet captivating area offers a blend of natural wonders, coastal charm, and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

The Iconic Natural Pools

The undisputed highlight of Porto Moniz are its natural volcanic swimming pools (Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz). These incredible formations were created over millennia by the cooling of lava flows, which left behind natural basins in the rock. As the ocean’s high tide rushes in, it naturally fills these pools with crystal-clear seawater, providing a safe and refreshing place to swim.

There are two main sets of pools:

• Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz (main pools): These are the larger, more developed pools, featuring excellent infrastructure including changing rooms, restrooms, a children’s pool, and sun loungers for hire. They offer a comfortable and family-friendly swimming experience.
• Piscinas Naturais Velhas (old pools/wilder pools): Located a short walk away, these pools are more natural and rugged, offering a wilder swimming experience with less infrastructure. They are free to access and often feature impressive lava arches to swim under.

Beyond the Pools: Exploring Porto Moniz

While the pools are the main draw, Porto Moniz and its surroundings offer much more to explore:

• Madeira Aquarium: Housed in the rebuilt São João Baptista Fort (João Baptista Fort), the aquarium showcases the diverse marine life found in Madeira’s waters, with over 90 native species. It’s an educational and engaging stop, especially for families.
• Ilhéu Mole and its Lighthouse: This small, distinctive islet just off the coast of Porto Moniz, topped with a lighthouse, is a picturesque landmark and a popular subject for photographers.
• Viewpoints: The rugged coastline provides numerous stunning viewpoints. Don’t miss Miradouro da Santinha or Miradouro do Pico for panoramic views of the town, the pools, and the vast Atlantic.
• Fanal Forest: A short drive inland, within the municipality, lies Fanal. This enchanting part of the Laurissilva Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is famous for its ancient, twisted laurel trees, often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical and otherworldly atmosphere perfect for photography and quiet walks.
• Ribeira da Janela: This charming valley, known for the mouth of one of the island’s largest watercourses, offers beautiful natural landscapes and is a starting point for popular levada walks. The Islets of Ribeira da Janela are also a notable feature.
• Seixal: A nearby parish within the municipality of Porto Moniz, Seixal boasts a beautiful black sand beach (Praia do Seixal), often cited as one of the best on the island, and its own set of natural pools (Poças das Lesmas). The Véu da Noiva (Bride’s Veil) waterfall, cascading directly into the sea, is another iconic sight in Seixal.
• Achadas da Cruz Cable Car: For an exhilarating experience and access to a secluded coastal area, the cable car at Achadas da Cruz offers a steep descent down dramatic cliffs to a tranquil “fajã” (small, flat piece of land at the base of a cliff).

Activities and Local Life

Porto Moniz is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering:

• Hiking: The municipality is a great base for exploring Madeira’s extensive network of levadas and footpaths, including access to parts of the Laurissilva Forest.
• Canyoning: Porto Moniz is known as a capital for canyoning, with numerous routes for all skill levels.
• Surfing: The north coast, including areas around Porto Moniz, offers good conditions for surfing.
• Fishing: Historically a fishing village, the sea continues to play an important role in the local economy and culture. You can enjoy fresh seafood in the local restaurants.

Porto Moniz offers a captivating blend of unique natural attractions, thrilling outdoor activities, and a peaceful, authentic Madeiran atmosphere, making it a memorable stop on any island itinerary.