Porto da Cruz

On the north coast of Madeira, below the great rock of Penha de Águia, Porto da Cruz is a village of vineyards, sugar cane and black sand. Its old mill still works, and its dramatic setting between the mountains and the sea makes it one of the most striking places on the island.

History and identity

The village grew up around its small harbour and its sugar cane fields, once an important industry in Madeira. The water-powered mill, one of the last of its kind on the island, still produces sugar cane syrup and rum, and the local vineyards give the village its own wine.

What to see and do

• The sugar cane mill and the village’s old centre.
• The coast and the black sand beach.
• The rock of Penha de Águia, above the village.
• The walking trails of the surrounding mountains.

Gastronomy and traditions

Porto da Cruz is known for its sugar cane syrup and rum, made in the old mill, and for the wine of its small vineyards. The village’s festivals and its simple restaurants keep the traditions of the north coast alive.

Visiting Porto da Cruz

Porto da Cruz is on the north coast of Madeira, about 30 kilometres from Funchal, reached by road. Access to the village is free; for the mill and local services, check with the municipality before your visit.

Visitor information: cm-machico.pt.

Image credit: Porto da Cruz, Madeira, by Ввласенко, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.