On the south-central coast of Madeira Island, tourists can find a very interesting parish and town, the main occupation of which was fishing for many years. The town’s name is Camara de Lobos. The town got its name because of a large population of monk seals that lived in this area. Do you want to enjoy a relaxing vacation in Portugal that is free of stress and overcrowded beaches? In this case, Camara de Lobos is one of the best options. Here, visitors can relax under the tender rays of the Portuguese sun and, of course, drink internationally famous Madeira wine.
Camara de Lobos became a town only more than twenty years ago. According to a local legend, when João Gonçalves Zarco visited this area and saw a bay, in which seals were sitting on rocks just like members of the senate in the chamber, he called this area Camara de Lobos or “the chamber of seals” in Portuguese. These animals are still popular and respected in the town. The seal is present in the town’s coat of arms and on numerous shop signs. There is even a cute fountain in the shape of a seal at the central square of the town.
For tourists, it might be strange to see that fishermen leave their tackle right on the coast unattended. According to local traditions, stealing fishing gear is a serious crime and the punishment for the thievery is serious. Fishermen are respected in the region, so no one dares to take their tackle. At the local market, visitors can buy fresh fish at a price that is always low.
Swordfish is the main delicacy in the region. Locals call it espada preto. If you look at it, you will notice that this fish looks more like a saber than a sword. Local fishermen catch this delicacy deeper in the ocean. The fish looks scary and can be 3-4 meters long. Despite the look, it tastes divine. The meat of swordfish is tender and juicy. The most important is to cook the fish in the right way on coals or in a soft dough. Swordfish is typically served with bananas and potato.
Praia do Vigario is one of the most popular beaches in Camara de Lobos. The beach is absolutely free to enter – it is open for both tourists and residents of the town who want to relax. The beach is relatively clean – the town’s government makes sure that this coastal area is always in good condition. Praia do Vigario has a pebble surface. At this beach, visitors can sunbathe and swim in a pool with fresh water. There is even a sports ground for adherents of a healthy lifestyle. A rescue team is always on duty at the beach to ensure that everyone is safe.
Piscinas das Salinas is another beach that Camara de Lobos is famous for. This coastal area is tidy and well kept. Piscinas das Salinas is a historical landmark because there was a salt extraction manufacture here in the past. Nowadays, this is a modern complex with established infrastructure. The beach is perfectly suitable for visitors with children because there is a special shallow pool for kids where your little one can swim under the guidance of professional teachers. Adults can try different activities or relax near the pool. There is a scuba diving center for fans of this pastime.
Not far from Camara de Lobos, there is a popular lookout point – Cabo Girao. This is a beautiful place with a cliff skywalk that is the highest in Europe. The cliff is basalt rock. Don’t forget to visit this place to see gorgeous old eucalyptus trees and numerous waterfalls. If you get to the top of the cliff, you will reach an observation platform with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic. The scenery is truly mesmerizing. If you are lucky, you can see whales.
To get to Camara de Lobos, you need to reach Madeira first. Once you reach the capital, take a transfer to the fishing town. You will reach Camara de Lobos in twenty minutes. If you travel in a group, it might be more comfortable to book a bus and use it to explore the island.
