If you’re planning a trip to Madeira, you’ve probably looked at Funchal. But what about the north?
Porto Moniz sits on the wild northwest corner of the island — dramatic cliffs, open Atlantic views, fewer crowds, and a slower rhythm of life.
So, is it a good place to stay?
It depends on what you’re looking for.
Why people love staying in Porto Moniz
Wild landscapes at your doorstep
From Porto Moniz you’re minutes away from:
- Fanal Forest
- Seixal
- Ribeira da Janela
- Paúl da Serra
- São Vicente
This is Madeira at its most raw and dramatic.
Fewer crowds
When the day visitors leave, Porto Moniz becomes calm again. Even in summer, evenings are peaceful.
Cooler in summer
The north coast is greener and slightly cooler than the south — a big advantage in peak heat.
Stunning sunrises and radical views
Sunrise in Porto Moniz is something special.
From my own home overlooking the Atlantic, I often watch the first light hit the cliffs and volcanic rocks. The ocean turns soft gold and pink, and the whole coastline feels untouched and silent.
You’ll find elevated viewpoints just above the village where you can watch the Atlantic stretching endlessly west.
For sunset, the north offers something different from the south — radical, dramatic views, clouds breaking over cliffs, and light cutting through mist.
If you’re into photography or simply powerful scenery, this part of the island delivers.
Great swimming spots locals actually use
Yes, the natural pools are famous — but locals often swim elsewhere.
The pier in Porto Moniz
Right by the village is the local pier. The water here is clean, deep, and accessed via steps. It’s simple, practical, and free of sand.
It’s where many locals prefer to swim.
Old and new natural pools
Porto Moniz has two pool complexes — the older lava pools and the newer structured area. Both are good options depending on sea conditions.
Seixal pier vs sand beach
Nearby Seixal is famous for its black sand beach. It’s beautiful and popular with visitors.
But many locals actually prefer the pier — easier access, cleaner exit, no sand everywhere.
Surfing at Ribeira da Janela
Ribeira da Janela also attracts surfers when conditions are right. It’s less developed, more exposed, and feels properly Atlantic.
Is Porto Moniz child friendly?
Surprisingly, yes.
- Natural swimming pools (lifeguards in season)
- Aquário da Madeira next to the pools
- Black sand beach in Seixal
- Calm village atmosphere
It’s not a resort town, but for relaxed family travel it works very well.
The only thing to consider is driving — roads can be steep and narrow.
Traditional festivities and roadside chapels
Porto Moniz and the surrounding villages are deeply traditional.
Throughout the year, you’ll find local religious festivals, small community celebrations, and village processions that feel authentic rather than staged for tourism. These events are organised by the community — schools, associations, local bands — and they bring the entire village together.
Music, food stalls, homemade sweets, decorated streets, and evening gatherings are common during feast days. If your visit happens to align with one of these celebrations, you’ll experience a side of Madeira that feels personal and real rather than commercial.
One thing you’ll notice while driving through the north is the number of small roadside chapels and shrines. These are part of daily life here. Many families maintain their own small devotional spaces — simple, carefully kept, and deeply meaningful.
I even own a small mini chapel myself, which I maintain locally — a quiet reminder of how strong these traditions remain in everyday life.
Feira do Gado — a living rural tradition
Another unique event in the north of Madeira is the Feira do Gado (cattle fair).
Traditionally, this was a rural livestock market where farmers brought cows and other animals to trade. While it still maintains that agricultural identity, today it’s also a cultural gathering that celebrates Madeira’s farming heritage.
During the fair, you’ll find:
- Local farmers presenting livestock
- Traditional food stalls
- Regional products and homemade sweets
- Live folk music
- A strong sense of community
It’s not polished or tourist-oriented — and that’s what makes it special. You’re seeing a side of Madeira that still feels rooted in land, agriculture, and local identity.
If you’re staying in Porto Moniz or nearby villages when the fair takes place, it’s worth experiencing — even just to walk around and observe. Happens once a year – check facebook for dates.
The honest downsides
Let’s be realistic.
- It’s about 1 hour from the airport
- Roads in the north are steep and winding
- Weather changes quickly (especially fog in the mountains)
- Fewer restaurants and nightlife than Funchal
If you want convenience and city energy, Funchal might suit you better.
Home to one of the north’s most loved viewpoints
One of the most photographed and admired viewpoints in north Madeira is Espaço Infinito.
It offers a vast, open Atlantic panorama — cliffs dropping into the ocean and endless horizon lines. It perfectly represents what staying in Porto Moniz feels like: space, wind, and scale.
Who Porto Moniz is perfect for
Stay here if you:
- Love dramatic scenery
- Prefer quiet evenings
- Enjoy swimming in natural ocean spots
- Want access to the wild north
- Don’t mind mountain driving (or prefer not to drive yourself)
Is Porto Moniz worth it?
Porto Moniz isn’t polished.
It isn’t flat.
It isn’t busy.
It’s raw, powerful, and deeply connected to nature. This is why we made it our home.
If that’s the Madeira you’re looking for, then yes — it’s absolutely worth staying here.