Tabua: Coast, Levada Walks and Local History
Accommodation in Tabua
Tabua lies by the sea on Madeira’s southwest coast. For travellers who want to combine their stay with hiking and local history, Levada paths, the Ribeira da Tabua Trail and several historic religious buildings offer specific points of interest.
Hiking and Landscape
The Ribeira de Tabua rises near Pico das Pedras at an altitude of 1,510 metres. Its approximately seven-kilometre course flows into the Freguesia of Tabua. The Ribeira da Tabua Trail is a 12.96-kilometre circular route rated as highly difficult. The start and finish are in the village of Ribeira da Tabua within the Freguesia of Tabua. The route length and difficulty are important points to consider when planning your hike; check the route details again before setting out. Tabua also has Levada paths that are suitable for hiking and offer scenic views. Check the current trail conditions before your visit.
Chapels and Local History
The Capela Mãe de Deus is a religious building dating from 1593, and therefore from the 16th century; it features Mannerist and vernacular architecture. The Capela da Mãe de Deus in Corujeira was rebuilt in 1767 after being destroyed by flooding on the opposite riverbank. The Igreja Paroquial de Tabua dates from the late 17th century; the parish originated from the chapel of Santíssima Trindade. The Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição was founded near the coast in 1688.
The place name Tabua also refers to a plant that was once common in the area. It was used to make mats and chair seats. The name is thus connected to an earlier craft use, while the chapels and parish church provide further historical points of interest in the area.
Festivals and Traditions
A 2020 municipal record gives the first Sunday in May as the date of the celebration in honour of the patron saint of the Capela Mãe de Deus, which draws people to Corujeira. For the Arraial, the record mentions espetada, Bolo do Caco and the traditional Carne de Vinho e Alhos sandwiches. Check the current festival dates and offerings before your trip. Senhora das Candeias is also celebrated in Tabua on 2 February; check the current programme for your trip.
The Castanholas tradition in Tabua includes training for young people and older learners. The Castanholas appear again during the Christmas season. If you are interested in taking part, check the current arrangements locally. A 2022 documentary shows figures on 53 stones along a 22-metre wall in Candelária, in the Freguesia of Tabua. Check locally whether the displays are still there and accessible.
Getting Around
A road connects Tabua with Calheta and Funchal and can help with regional orientation.
Discover more destinations: Ponta Delgada, Arco Da Calheta, Machico, Caniço, Estreito Da Calheta, Campo De Cima, Sao Goncalo, Gaula
Return to the main travel overview: Madeira.
