f you’re looking for some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Europe, you have to add Achadas da Cruz (up in Porto Moniz) to your list. We’re talking wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the kind of deep blue, lively sea that you could look at for hours. It’s a seriously beautiful spot for a coastal stroll.
The coolest part? You can take the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz (the cable car) right down the side of a massive cliff to a hidden gem called Fajá da Quebrada Nova. Tucked away on the north-western coast, this tiny village used to be a bustling farming community. Today, it’s like stepping back in time-lots of the cute, traditional stone homes have been left untouched for years.
🚠 Important Cable Car Info: It runs from 8:00 to 18:00, but they do close for lunch between 12:00 and 13:00. Also, heads up that the last trip down is at 16:30!
Because it’s right on the coast, strong westerly winds can shut the cable car down. I highly recommend giving them a quick ring at +351 291 852 951 before you head over. The operator speaks great English and will tell you if it’s running and how busy it is. It’s gotten super popular lately, especially after lunch, so you could be looking at a 30-minute to 2-hour wait to get back up!
Skip the Queue: Hike Down Instead 🥾
If you don’t fancy waiting in a long line, you can actually hike down to the promenade instead! It’s an amazing workout and gives you a much more unique, adventurous experience. I’ve mapped out the exact trail for you, so you can follow route here to stay on track.
If you want to dodge the crowds completely and catch an unforgettable view, aiming for sunset is the ultimate move.
⚠️ Just a quick heads-up on the lighting: To get that dreamiest, golden-hour glow where the sun perfectly lights up the green slopes, you’ll want to visit around December or January. Because of where the sun sets during those months, the lighting down there is absolutely magical.
Trust me, you don’t want to miss this spot while you’re exploring the island!
