Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village between Ponta do Sol and Funchal, is a beautiful destination for those seeking to experience traditional Madeira. Named for the sea lions which once lived in the bay, this pretty harbour town rose to fame when Winston Churchill chose its scenic waterfront as the subject of his paintings in the 1950s. Welcoming for couples, families and groups alike, the best places to stay in Câmara de Lobos promise expansive views towards the fishing harbour and the sea beyond.

Wander down to the harbour to see fishermen hauling in the day’s catch of black scabbardfish and tuna, picking a perch at a family-owned seafood restaurant to tuck into the day’s specialities. The fish market is the hub of the community, surrounded by bustling cafés — perfect for sampling a glass of poncha, the rum-based drink of the island’s fisherfolk. Amble along narrow lines lined with whitewashed houses, popping into to little boutiques and heritage buildings as you explore.

Cabo Girão, Europe's highest sea-cliff skywalk, stands just above the village. Set 580 metres above the ocean, this glass-floored platform is a jaw-dropping spot from which to see this part of Madeira. Head inland to sample the island’s famous fortified wine at terraced vineyards, or follow local levada walking trails through laurel forests, along cliffs and into the mountains of the interior. Return to your pick of the best places to stay in Câmara de Lobos for lazy afternoons soaking up the sunshine by the pool — no doubt well-deserved!

The Best Places to Stay in Câmara de Lobos

For Families or Groups

• Pestana Fisherman Village offers 42 guest rooms with airy contemporary interiors clad in soothing neutral tones. Families and groups are welcome, and flexible room options make travelling together appealingly simple. The big stand-out is the rooftop infinity pool, which boasts dazzling ocean views. Breakfasts are served onsite, and the eateries of Câmara de Lobos are within easy reach for lovely evenings out. 
• Quinta de Saraiva has chic, country-style guest rooms with big cosy beds and pastel hues. Families will love the big swimming pool, gardens with wandering goats, and the kitchenettes in the larger suites. Again, breakfasts are offered and nearby restaurants abound.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Madeira Airport from Lisbon or other European destinations. Câmara de Lobos is just 30 minutes from the airport by road, and most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance. 
• Madeira is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• The island has hot dry summers and mild, damp winters, with most of the rain between October and March. Temperatures are highly dependent on the direction of the winds which sweep their way over the island. Warm winds from North Africa raise the average summer temperature to around 30°C, whilst cooler winds from Europe keep them in the mid-20s. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but autumn and late spring are lovely — and a good time to avoid the school holiday crowds. 

Still not sure?