In South West Madeira there is a ribbon of villages running about at a height of 400 to 600mm above sea level most of the way to the Western tip of the Island at Punto de Pargo. This area is well cultivated particularly along the Levada Nova which winds along the coast for over 50 kms. The newly constructed road now links the lower series of villages to Funchal as far as Calheta where it rises sharply to Prazeres from where it will run at the higher level.
What Prazeres Has To Offer
For walkers its proximity to Paul da Serra has long been an attraction and the well appointed Hotel Jardim Atlantico in Prazeres is noted for its popularity with walkers from overseas. Paul de Serra is an uninhabited area of about 100 sq km and is between 1400 and 1600 m above sea level. It is similar to the moor lands of Scotland and is often shrouded in mist.. On its Western edge is the most well known walking area is Madeira, Rabacal, which has an exceptional range of walks offering a variety of stunning views, waterfalls or springs and of course levada walks. .
Prazeres is well positioned in South West Madeira. It is one of the very few access points to Paul da Serra . It is a good point from which to walk along the Levada Nova.
It is also easy driving access to the pretty village of Jardim do Mar which is directly below at sea level but the walk there is quite a challenge!
"this village (Prazeres)is without any doubt one of the most picturesque of the island!
This small village also offers the delights of a parish run zoo, herb garden and tea house. Well worth a visit and very well looked after.
The entire parish is sitting on an enormous terrace from where you can enjoy breathtaking views over the ocean and the surrounding area.
Don’t just drive by, make a stop and take some moments to delight at this amazing scenery"
Madeira Website 2007