Discover Ribeira Brava

Ribeira Brava brings together landscapes, cultural heritage and everyday life with a bathing complex. For your trip planning, you can distinguish between these highlights: the Miradouro do Espigão offers views of the valley, while the church, museum and market each explore different aspects of culture and everyday life.

Valley views and rocky headland

The Miradouro do Espigão offers impressive views over the Ribeira Brava valley. The Farol da Ribeira Brava stands on a rocky headland 34 metres above sea level. The two sites offer different landscape perspectives: the viewpoint opens up views across the valley, while the lighthouse is defined by its elevated position on the headland. If you are comparing landscapes and structures when planning your trip, these are two clearly distinct features.

Bathing complex and beach

The Complexo Balnear da Ribeira Brava has swimming pools, including one for children, an area with sun loungers, toilet and changing facilities, as well as a bar and restaurant. The complex also includes a beach made up of a mixture of pebbles and black sand. Improvements were made to the facility in 2021, making access to the sea easier. If you plan to include the bathing area in your itinerary, check the current conditions on site before your visit.

Igreja de São Bento

The Igreja de São Bento was built in the 16th century and traces its origins to a small chapel from the 15th century. Its extensive collection includes paintings, sculptures, goldsmith work and gilded wood carvings from the 16th and 17th centuries. The church is also classified as an “Imóvel de Interesse Público” (property of public interest). Its building history and collection therefore offer different ways to explore the cultural heritage.

Museum and cultural history

The Museu Etnográfico da Madeira is located in Vila Ribeira Brava and gives visitors an insight into the cultural richness of the Madeira archipelago. The permanent exhibition covers productive activities, transport, households and traditional trade. Its themes therefore range from productive activities and transport to households and traditional trade. Together, they provide an overview of different aspects of cultural life, rather than focusing on a single subject.

Forte de São Bento and visitor information

The Forte de São Bento da Ribeira Brava was built in 1708 on the orders of the then Governor of Madeira, Duarte Sodré Pereira, to protect the coast and anchorage. Ribeira Brava’s tourist information office is located on the waterfront road in Forte de São Bento and provides visitors with information and tourist assistance. The history of coastal defence is thus linked to a place where visitors can get practical information. If you need help finding your way during your stay, the office offers information and assistance.

Solar dos Herédia and Mercado da Ribeira Brava

Solar dos Herédia was built between the late 18th and early 19th centuries and has been classified as a monument of municipal interest since 1994. The estate includes a large outdoor area with a diverse selection of botanical species. Its construction period, classification and botanical diversity describe different aspects of the property.

The Mercado da Ribeira Brava has areas for fish, meat, fruit and vegetables, as well as an area for regional Madeiran handicrafts. It is also considered an important market for everyday life in the town. Alongside the food sections, regional handicrafts form a distinct part of the market. This gives you an impression of how the different market areas showcase regional crafts as well as serving everyday needs.

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