Câmara de LobosLocals Featured 

Câmara de Lobos

Câmara de Lobos is a town and civil parish on the south coast of Madeira Island. The municipality of Câmara de Lobos has about 35 000 inhabitants spread over an area of 51.82 km2.

The name of this parish derives from the fact that, at the time of the discovery of the island, large numbers of sea wolves were seen in that cove that still maintains the same configuration today. Currently, these animals occasionally appear only on the southern coast of the island, with a colony preserved on the Desert Islands.

The main economic activities of the parish are fisheries, agriculture-especially banana-growing-trade, services and industry

Chamber of Wolves was the first place where João Gonçalves Zarco, the navigator who discovered the island, lived between 1420 and 1424. This was the first settlement created in Madeira by João Gonçalves Zarco himself, and was elevated to the parish in 1430.

This land of fishermen, whose main specialisation is black scabbardfish fishing, owes its fame to the fishermen who paint the bay with their picturesque and very characteristic boats – the shavings. Former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill painted this exceptional portrait when he visited the island on 8 January 1950.

The heritage of the civil parish of Câmara de Lobos, passing by the church of St. Sebastian, built in the XVI century; the church of Our Lady of the immaculate Conception, which was founded in the XV century and rebuilt in the EIGHTEENTH century; the convent of St. Bernardino, built in 1425, and Lime Kiln, integrated tourism project for the area of the Salt pans.

Here you can ascend to the islet of Câmara de Lobos

… an eyebrow rock to the sea that resembles an island, where inhabits much of the fishing class of this locality. This space has recently been refurbished and adapted to cultural activities, with a beautiful garden, providing magnificent views of the city, the sea and the surroundings, including Cape Girão.

In addition to the civil parish of Câmara de Lobos, four other parishes are part of this municipality: Corral das nuns, Straito de Câmara de Lobos, Jardim da Serra and Quinta Grande.

Câmara de Lobos

It was this traditional fishing village, situated five kilometres from Funchal

…that inspired Sir Winston Churchill to paint it. The name was given to it by explorers João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristan Vaz Teixeira, due to The Shape of its Bay (Chamber) and because there are many sea wolves in this area.

At first, the islet was completely surrounded by water but, with the earthquake, the peak of the tower collapsed and the stones and land from this collapse fell to the place where the present ‘village’is located. In addition to the charming Bay, the Chamber of Wolves has several points of interest, such as the peak of the Tower, The Corral of the nuns, the mouth of The Lovers, The Mouth of the race and the Cape Girão.

Moving towards the Straits of Câmara de Lobos

…he will realise that banana cultivation gives way to that of the vineyard and, a little higher, to that of the cherry.

Once in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, do not forget to visit the parish church and the parish of Jardim da Serra, where you have three options: go to the Mouth of Valentine’s day and enjoy the breath-taking scenery of the Curral das Freiras, passing through the Mouth of the Race, and finally stop at Quinta do Jardim da Serra.

Not to be missed is Cape Girão (known as the second highest CAPE in Europe), able to present him with amazing views over the county of Funchal. Just stunning.…

Wolf chamber is the’ House ‘ of the Poncha, a mixture of lemon juice, honey and sugar cane Brandy, always ready to serve in the many local tascas. If you like to take pictures, you’ll love the camera landscapes of Wolves and their inhabitants.

Câmara de Lobos

The Strait of Câmara de Lobos is today one of the world’s leading producers of Madeira wine

…and the freshest fruit, namely the famous Madeira banana, and vegetables, is also produced throughout the region.

The first Franciscan convent outside Funchal was built in the 15th, 18th and 19th centuries, as well as the Mother Church of Saint Sebastian (16th century) and the Chapel Of Our Lady of Calhau (15th century), but much changed in the 17th century.

Known to be a land of young people, Câmara de Lobos has a lively nightlife, with many bars, where the star is the famous poncha, now available in all imaginary flavors, but which was originally made by fishermen, using sugar cane Brandy, water, sugar and lemon peel.

Câmara de Lobos is a beautiful coastal town located on the island of Madeira, Portugal. Here are some activities and attractions you can enjoy in Câmara de Lobos:

  • Explore the Old Town: Take a stroll through the charming streets of the old town and admire the traditional Madeiran houses adorned with colorful flowers. You’ll find quaint cafes, shops, and local artisans.
  • Visit the Promenade: The seafront promenade of Câmara de Lobos offers stunning views of the bay and the rugged coastline. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade and breathe in the fresh ocean air.
  • Try Espada com Banana: Câmara de Lobos is famous for its local cuisine, and one of the traditional dishes you must try is “Espada com Banana.” This dish consists of black scabbardfish served with bananas and other accompaniments.
  • Take a Boat Trip: Explore the beautiful coastline and nearby sea caves by taking a boat trip from the harbor. You can enjoy dolphin and whale watching tours, fishing trips, or simply relax on a leisurely boat ride.
  • Visit the Câmara de Lobos Vineyards: Madeira is renowned for its wine production, and Câmara de Lobos is home to several vineyards. Take a tour of the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample the local wines.
  • Discover Cabo Girão: Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Visit the viewpoint and experience the glass platform that suspends over the cliff, providing a thrilling perspective.
  • Visit the Fishermen’s Village: Câmara de Lobos has a long history as a fishing village, and you can still see local fishermen bringing in their daily catch. Explore the harbor area, watch the fishing boats, and maybe even sample some fresh seafood.
  • Enjoy Nature: Surrounding Câmara de Lobos, you’ll find beautiful natural landscapes and hiking trails. Take a walk along the Levada dos Piornais or explore the nearby Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Attend Festivals: Check if there are any local festivals or events happening during your visit. Madeira is known for its vibrant festivals, and Câmara de Lobos often hosts traditional celebrations with music, dance, and delicious food.

Câmara de Lobos Events 2024

Cherry’s Fest

Festival held annually in the parish of Jardim da Serra, with the objective of promoting the culture and commercialisation of the cherry and, on the other hand, the economic and touristic potential of the locality where it takes place. The cherry is a fruit which cultivation is predominant in the upper part of the parish of Jardim da Serra, although in the past large quantities could also be found in the parish of Curral das Freiras.

Date: 09/06/2023 – 11/06/2023 (07:00)

Estreito’s Wine Harvest Festival

The Grape Harvest Festival gathers thousands of inhabitants and tourists every year in the first fortnight of September in the village of Estreito. A fundamental poster for promoting Madeira as a destination, this festival recreates the hard but joyful work of the grape harvest, an essential stage in preparing the way for the population to enjoy the island’s most famous product, its wine. The gastronomic aspect is also present in these festivities, always accompanied by strong musical entertainment by various regional and national bands.

Date: 09/09/2023 (10:00)

Christmas Traditional Nights

True Madeiran Christmas traditions are displayed in different places all over the island on different dates. The best known is the market night at the Mercado dos Agricultores in Funchal on the 23rd of December.

Date: 01/12/2023 – 23/12/2023

FAQS

  1. What is Câmara de Lobos?

    Câmara de Lobos is a picturesque city located on the southern coast of Madeira Island, Portugal. It’s known for its charming fishing village atmosphere, beautiful bay, and as the original producer of Madeira wine.

  2. What is there to do in Câmara de Lobos?

    In Câmara de Lobos, you can explore the vibrant fishing harbor, visit the local bars and restaurants to try the traditional drink “Poncha”, walk along the promenade, and enjoy the stunning views from the nearby Pico da Torre viewpoint.

  3. How far is Câmara de Lobos from Funchal?

    Câmara de Lobos is approximately 9 kilometers west of Funchal, the capital of Madeira. It’s a short drive or bus ride away.

  4. What is the significance of Câmara de Lobos to Winston Churchill?

    Winston Churchill, the former British Prime Minister, visited Câmara de Lobos in the 1950s. He was captivated by its beauty and spent his time painting the scenic views of the harbor.

  5. What food is Câmara de Lobos known for?

    Câmara de Lobos is known for its fresh seafood, particularly the local specialty “Espetada” (beef on a skewer) and “Peixe Espada Preto” (black scabbardfish). It’s also famous for its local drink, Poncha.

  6. Are there any festivals in Câmara de Lobos?

    Yes, Câmara de Lobos hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Cherry Festival and the Saint Peter Festival. These events feature traditional music, dance, food, and drink.

  7. How can I get to Câmara de Lobos?

    Câmara de Lobos is easily accessible from Funchal by bus, car, or taxi. There are regular bus services between Funchal and Câmara de Lobos.

  8. What is the population of Câmara de Lobos?

    As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the population of Câmara de Lobos was approximately 36,000. For the most current data, please refer to the latest census or demographic information.

  9. Are there any hotels in Câmara de Lobos?

    Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses in and around Câmara de Lobos, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.

  10. Is Câmara de Lobos worth visiting?

    Absolutely! With its charming atmosphere, beautiful views, delicious food, and rich history, Câmara de Lobos is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Madeira.

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