C - Ponta da Oliveira - Praia da Atalaia - C

During a visit to the beautiful island of Madeira, I decided to take a walk in Caniço de Baixo, a picturesque resort town on the southeast coast of the island, about 10 kilometers from the capital Funchal. Caniço de Baixo is known for its tranquility, beautiful coastlines, and the clear, azure blue water that is ideal for snorkelers and divers.

Caniço de Baixo

The walk begins at the RIU hotel in Caniço de Baixo, a place steeped in peace and serenity; of course, one can join in wherever desired. Along the way, you will encounter various luxurious hotels and holiday apartments nestled between beautiful gardens full of tropical flowers and palm trees. The surroundings exude a cozy atmosphere, with the Atlantic Ocean always present on the horizon.

Ponta da Oliveira

Before long, you arrive at Ponta da Oliveira, a characteristic headland that dramatically extends into the Atlantic Ocean. This spot offers a spectacular view of Madeira's coastline, where the ocean crashes powerfully against the dark, volcanic cliffs. Ponta da Oliveira is also a popular spot among divers due to the nearby diving school and the richness of marine life hidden in these clear waters.

What is particularly special about Ponta da Oliveira is the view. From the viewpoint, you can admire the immense ocean that seems endless, with a boat here and there making its way across the waves. There are benches where you can rest and enjoy the cool sea breeze and the sound of the waves. For the more active ones, it is possible to descend to the water from here to swim or snorkel.

Praia da Atalaia

The walk continues to Praia da Atalaia, a rocky coastline that is popular with both tourists and locals. This is not a typical sandy beach destination but one of the unique pools formed by lava rock formations, where the seawater flows gently in. The clear water provides ideal conditions for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world.

The Atalaia beach in Caniço, on the island of Madeira, is a true paradise for those who want to relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and savor a good meal. The beach is charming, with crystal-clear, clean water inviting for a refreshing dip. Furthermore, the restaurants are charming and offer a very pleasant environment to enjoy the view while indulging in local delicacies.

To get to the beach, you must descend a steep and somewhat dangerous path. It is therefore important to wear appropriate footwear and be cautious, especially if accompanied by children. But the descent is worth it, as Praia da Atalaia is a hidden cove with a very special charm. Nature seems to have perfected this place, making it even more enchanting.

There is not much infrastructure available at the beach, such as public toilets, so it is important to be prepared for these eventualities.

In short, Praia da Atalaia in Caniço, on the island of Madeira, is a charming and indispensable spot for those seeking a unique experience in the midst of nature and the tranquility of the surroundings. Be sure to visit and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of this special place.

Final Thoughts

The walk through Caniço de Baixo and the visit to Ponta da Oliveira and Praia da Atalaia is a delightful experience. The contrast between the rugged volcanic coastline and the calm, clear water is impressive. The peace and quiet of the surroundings, combined with the beautiful view of the ocean, make it a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

This region of Madeira offers both relaxation and adventure. For nature lovers and divers, it is a paradise, while walkers can enjoy the spectacular views and unique coastlines that the region has to offer.