Estreito Da Calheta: Chapels and Levada Nova

Estreito Da Calheta can be understood through three distinct themes: the history of several chapels, Levada Nova da Calheta, and an agricultural landscape. This distinction is useful when planning your trip. The chapels lead to different foundations and to the history of the parish, while the levada, at 39 kilometers long and with a stated duration of six to nine hours, is a long route. Vineyards, sugar cane, and horticultural crops shape the landscape.

Chapels, Art, and Local History

Capela dos Reis Magos was founded in 1520 by Francisco Homem de Gouveia and his wife, D. Isabel Afonso, and is classified as a monument of public interest. The chapel houses an altarpiece from the Flemish school that combines painting and sculpture. An altarpiece is a decorated structure behind the altar; this term helps you understand the work as part of the artistic furnishings.

Capela Nossa Senhora da Conceição was founded in 1673 by André de França Andrade—153 years after Capela dos Reis Magos. A third chapel is part of the parish’s history: Nossa Senhora da Graça was built by João de França, and the parish of Estreito Da Calheta was established there. The three chapels thus represent different historical associations: two foundations and the establishment of the parish in another chapel.

Planning Levada Nova da Calheta

Levada Nova da Calheta is 39 kilometers long and is designated as a one-way route; its stated duration is six to nine hours. The route passes through Estreito Da Calheta and offers several access points in the municipality of Calheta. This lets you consider the route both as a whole and in terms of its connection to Estreito Da Calheta.

The time required and the one-way route are important for planning your day. Base your plans on the stated duration and consider how to fit the route’s start and end into your day. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.

Agricultural Landscape

The landscape includes vineyards, sugar cane, and horticultural crops. This agricultural character complements the chapels’ historical associations and the levada’s appeal for hikers. If you would like to understand a destination through more than individual buildings or a tour, the landscape offers another perspective on Estreito Da Calheta.

Choosing a Hotel and a Specific Offer

At Quinta das Vinhas, guests can have dinner at a restaurant/wine bar and sample a wide selection of table wines produced on the island.

If you are looking for a hotel in Estreito Da Calheta, choose your destination based on your main interest: the chapels and their history, the long levada route, or the agricultural landscape. Then compare the specific hotel offers for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Quinta Grande, Ribeiro Frio, Caniçal, Campanário, Arco Da Calheta, Tabua, Ponta Delgada, Curral Das Freiras

For the broader travel overview: Madeira.