Arco da Calheta
The name Arco da Calheta comes from two elements. Firstly, arco (meaning arch) is a description of the semi-circular shape the hills form; Secondly da Calheta refers to the close proximity to the neighbouring civil parish of Calheta. This parish was one of the very first to be settled and subsequently farmed and is one of the wealthiest in artistic and patrimonial treasures. It was here that João Fernandes Andrade, known as João Fernandes do Arco settled at the end of the 15th century. He owned vast lands of wheat, sugar mills and slaves, and set up a home with a private chapel and chaplain. Arco da Calheta is mainly irrigated by a branch of the important Levada do Rabaçal and another known as Madre Grande, which has its origins in Paul da Serra. This parish’s confining limits are the civil parishes of Madalena do Mar, Canhas and Calheta.
Why visit Calheta?
The desire to visit somewhere is always dependent on the attractiveness of its territory. The bigger, better and more diverse the offer, the more attractive it becomes. An average annual temperature between 18º – 20º, one of the lowest average rainfalls on the island, rural environment, quality of air and good accesses are just some of the many features available to visitors and inhabitants.
Spiritual, scientific, natural, adventure, nautical and family tourism are some of the activities that Calheta does best.
Calheta really is the perfect place to start exploring the island.
What`s on?
Calheta possesses a wide range of activities that make it one of the most visited regions of the archipelago. With around 20 walking routes, diverse beaches, nature sports, regional food it has anything to offer one can think of.
To find out more about the region, visit the official website of the Area of Calheta https://www.cmcalheta.pt/en/
For more information about the island and what to discover, find here some links with walking routes, must do´s and recommendations.
https://www.visitmadeira.com/de-de/homepage
https://www.blandyswinelodge.com/en/home/
