In the 15th century, Madalena do Mar was the home of Henry the German, or Henrique, who was called so by the locals because they couldn't understand him. It is thought he was actually the Polish King Wladislaw III, who fled his country after the Ottoman army crushed his in 1444. Madalena's church is said to have been founded by Henrique. The house where he lived is not far from the church. It has a distinctive coat of arms.
The area around Madalena do Mar receives more sun on average than any other place on Madeira. For that reason it is known as Ponta do Sol and it is a major producer of bananas. The nearby town of Ponta do Sol has a lovely seafront and harbor.
There are numerous bars along the seafront of Madalena do Mar, where you can sit and watch people getting soaked at a wave-breaker. Accommodation is available too. Madalena do Mar is 22 km northwest from Funchal.
Travel Guides for Madalena do Mar
Find a flight to Madalena do Mar