272 Madeira Info CALHETA Located on the southwestern coastline, Calheta is home to a marina and the island's only two beaches. It also has a museum of modern art and a distillery which produces the white rum used in the typical Madeiran alcoholic drink, poncha. There are also many hiking trails to choose from starting from Calheta. Distance from the airport: 51 km. CANIÇO The municipality of Caniço is home to two tourist areas and a small picturesque town surrounded by fields of crops. Its shops, cafes and restaurants are all conveniently located around the central square. Caniço de Baixo and Garajau are two quiet residential areas that are mainly made up of villas, hotels and flats, with the exception of a few restaurants. Distance from the airport: 10 km. FUNCHAL Funchal overlooks a wide bay in the south of the island. In the past, sledges were used to carry vegetables up its steep ancient streets to the market. Nowadays, cars have to squeeze through the one-way streets and parking is almost impossible, so you might as well walk! The Sé cathedral dates from the end of the 15th century, and its modest exterior contrasts with the richness of its interior decoration. The São Lourenço fortress, the Palacio do Governo Regional, the Praça do Municipio and the Igreja do Colégio are also not to be missed when visiting Funchal. Most hotels are located in the west of the city. Distance from the airport: 21 km. SANTA CRUZ Santa Cruz, located in the southeast of the island, is one of the oldest towns on Madeira. The Cristo Rei do Garajau viewpoint is magical, offering breathtaking views over the Garajau reserve, Caniço de Baixo and the Atlantic Ocean. You can even take a cable car directly from here to Garajau beach. Distance from the airport: 3 km. Caniçal, a former fishing village and whaling station, is home to one of Madeira's few natural sandy beaches. Caniçal is known for its Whaling Museum (Museu da Baleia) and its annual procession to the Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy in September, a festival and tradition which is unique to Madeira and attracts many curious visitors. The fish specialities in the harbour are also not to be missed - enjoy freshly caught tuna straight from the fishing boat to your plate. Distance to the airport: 11 km. CANICAL
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