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Ponta do Pargo Holidays
The little town of Ponta do Pargo, on the west coast of Madeira, is simple and charming, and is an interesting place to visit to see the well-preserved customs and traditions of the island. The most westerly point on Madeira, Ponta do Pargo takes its' name from its' location, 'Ponta' meaning west, and the abundant species of fish found in the waters, the 'pargo'. Until the 1960's many of the resorts on the remote west of Madeira were only accessible by boat, but the opening of a major road opened up the area to visitors, with the towns and villages thankfully managing to retain their authenticity and charm. Tranquil and serene, the country town of Ponta do Pargo can show visitors the peaceful and traditional way of life found on the island, away from the hustle and bustle of the larger resorts.
Holidays in Ponta do Pargo - A charming country town in Madeira
The western part of Madeira is probably the least known and explored, but it is blessed with unspoilt countryside, wonderful sea views and offers a great base for bird-watchers and nature-lovers. Ponta do Pargo is famous for the lighthouse which stands at the most westerly point, the best-known on the island, and at 312m, one of the highest in the world. Accessible by road, the working lighthouse commands some fantastic views out over the Atlantic, and is a major tourist attraction in the west of the island. There is a beach at Ponta do Pargo, Praia do Pesqueiro, which is accessible by footpath leading down from the village, and surrounded by cliffs.
Holidays in Ponta do Pargo - Alive with traditions and customs
The country town of Ponta do Pargo is still alive with the traditions and customs of Madeira, and the people of the town still wear the local costumes for various celebrations and holidays. The most well-known event in Ponta do Pargo is the open-air Apple Festival which takes place in the middle of September, where farmers from the neighbourhood bring their produce together for a celebration and feast. The apples from this region are famous for their distinctive scent, and legend dictates that sailors could smell the the strong aromatic fruits whilst still out at sea. Other areas to visit whilst in Ponta do Pargo in western Madeira include Paul do Mar, one of the main fishing centres on the island, and the sleepy village of Faja da Ovelha, partially sitting on a giant boulder, which tradition says is protected by Saint Amaro, so it doesn't fall onto Paul do Mar which sits directly below. Further south from Ponta do Pargo is the beautiful coastal region of Calheta, a main tourist destination, with its' man-made beach and marina.
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