Fajã dos Padres Cable Car
Descend by cable car to a secluded paradise with exotic fruit gardens and a tranquil pebble beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Warm sun, calm seas
Fajã dos Padres Cable Car
Best Time
Warm sun, calm seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend by cable car to a secluded paradise with exotic fruit gardens and a tranquil pebble beach.
"Visiting Fajã dos Padres was one of the most memorable experiences we had on Madeira."
🎯 Cable Car Ticket Info
Tickets are around €10-12 per person. Check operating hours as they can vary seasonally.
🍽️ Restaurant Kitchen Hours
The restaurant kitchen closes at 16:30, so plan your lunch or snacks accordingly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dramatic Cable Car Descent
Cliffside access point
Experience a thrilling 300-meter vertical descent with breathtaking ocean and cliff views.
Exotic Fruit Gardens
Base of the cliffs
Wander through a unique microclimate boasting tropical fruits like mangoes, avocados, and bananas.
Secluded Pebble Beach
Oceanfront
Relax on a tranquil pebble beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and unwinding.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Cable Car Adventure Awaits
Plan Your Day at the Bottom
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Cable Car Ticket Info
Tickets are around €10-12 per person. Check operating hours as they can vary seasonally.
🍽️ Restaurant Kitchen Hours
The restaurant kitchen closes at 16:30, so plan your lunch or snacks accordingly.
👟 Beach Footwear
It's a pebble beach, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for comfort.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as there's limited shade on the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cable Car Ticket Info
Tickets are around €10-12 per person. Check operating hours as they can vary seasonally.
🍽️ Restaurant Kitchen Hours
The restaurant kitchen closes at 16:30, so plan your lunch or snacks accordingly.
👟 Beach Footwear
It's a pebble beach, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for comfort.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as there's limited shade on the beach.
🚤 Boat Alternative
If the seas are calm, arriving or departing by boat is another scenic option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fajã dos Padres for its unique beauty, accessible via a dramatic cable car ride. The exotic fruit gardens and tranquil pebble beach are highlights, offering a peaceful escape. Some note the restaurant's early kitchen closing time as a drawback, suggesting planning ahead or bringing snacks.
"Visiting Fajã dos Padres was one of the most memorable experiences we had on Madeira. This remote spot sits at the base of 1,000-foot cliffs, and getting there is an adventure in itself. You descend almost vertically by cable car in just two minutes, or arrive by boat if the seas are calm. At the bottom, you step into a world that feels hidden away from time.
Fajã dos Padres is home to Malvasia Cândida, a rare and nearly extinct grape that was once considered the finest variety on the island. Thanks to its unique microclimate: sunny, warm, and sheltered by cliffs, it also supports an astonishing variety of tropical fruits. Walking through the gardens you’ll find mangoes (dozens of types), avocados, Surinam cherries, bananas, pepino dulce, and much more. It feels like a mix of vineyard, orchard, and paradise.
The whole setting is peaceful, with the sea at your feet and towering cliffs at your back. Whether you come for the history, the rare wine, or just the incredible scenery, this is a must-visit on Madeira. Highly recommended."
Joseph Paparella
"Nice view point from the top, there’s cable car to reach down to the beach which has swimming access. Also possible to have a tour of the banana and avocado plantation as well as a tasting."
Nahara Rivera
"Once you're down, it is a lovely place to relax."
Relm Arrowny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Fajã dos Padres is via the scenic cable car that descends 300 meters down the cliffs. Alternatively, you can arrive by boat if the sea conditions are favorable.
Yes, Fajã dos Padres is conveniently located only about a 20-minute drive from Funchal, making it an accessible day trip.
Cable car hours typically run from 10:00 to 18:00, but it's always best to check the latest schedule as they can vary, especially with seasonal changes.
While there isn't direct public transport to the cable car station, it's easily reachable by car or taxi from Funchal. The cable car itself is the main mode of transport down to the Fajã.
Yes, there is parking available near the top of the cable car station, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cable car typically costs around €10 to €12 per person for a round trip. Children may have a reduced fare.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and avoid potential queues.
The main cost is for the cable car ride. Once at the bottom, exploring the grounds and beach is generally included, though specific activities might have separate charges.
The cable car operates from 10:00 to 18:00, and visitors can enjoy the area at the bottom during these hours.
Yes, children often receive a discounted rate for the cable car. It's advisable to inquire about specific child pricing when purchasing tickets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exotic fruit plantations, relax on the pebble beach, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy a meal at the restaurant. +1
Yes, the pebble beach offers access to crystal-clear waters that are great for swimming and enjoying the ocean.
Absolutely! You can stroll along the promenade, wander through the banana and avocado plantations, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
It's an ideal destination for a day trip, offering a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
The area is known for its microclimate supporting a wide variety of tropical fruits, including dozens of mango types, avocados, bananas, and Surinam cherries.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at the bottom that serves local organic food, including fresh seafood.
Be aware that the kitchen of the restaurant at the bottom closes at 16:30, so plan your dining time accordingly.
Yes, if you're concerned about the kitchen closing time or prefer to pack your own, bringing a lunch bag is a good idea.
The restaurant focuses on organic produce grown on-site, offering a taste of the unique fruits and local flavors of Madeira.
While specific options aren't detailed, the focus on organic produce suggests fresh, plant-based ingredients are likely available. It's best to inquire directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the cable car against the cliffs, the lush tropical gardens, and the serene pebble beach with its clear waters.
The dramatic cliffs and ocean views make it a potentially great spot for drone photography, but always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the golden hues on the cliffs and water, while mornings offer softer light.
Absolutely! The vibrant colors and unique shapes of the tropical fruits in the gardens offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any private areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the bottom, the pebble beach is a great spot for kids to play, and the clear, calm waters are suitable for supervised swimming. Exploring the exotic fruit gardens can also be an educational and fun experience for younger visitors, sparking their curiosity about different plants and fruits. Consider packing snacks or an early lunch, as the restaurant kitchen closes at 16:30, which might be earlier than some families finish their day.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Garden Enthusiasts
Take your time to wander through the gardens, observe the different fruit trees, and breathe in the fresh sea air. The secluded nature of the location adds to its charm, providing a peaceful environment to connect with nature.
The cable car ride itself offers incredible views of the rugged coastline, further enhancing the appreciation for Madeira's natural wonders. 📸 Photographers
+1 The vibrant colors of the tropical fruits in the gardens, the textures of the pebble beach, and the clear turquoise waters provide endless subjects for creative shots. Consider visiting during the golden hours of late afternoon for soft, warm light that enhances the landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Microclimate and Agriculture
The area is also historically significant for cultivating Malvasia Cândida, a grape variety once considered the finest on the island. While its cultivation is now rare, Fajã dos Padres preserves this viticultural heritage. The combination of natural beauty and agricultural richness makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in botany, history, and sustainable farming practices.
Experiencing the Cable Car Journey
+1This unique mode of transport not only provides access but also builds anticipation for the tranquil experience that awaits. The visual spectacle from the cable car is a highlight for many visitors, offering a thrilling introduction to the unique geography of Fajã dos Padres. It's an experience that perfectly sets the tone for the secluded and serene atmosphere of the destination.
+1Relaxation and Activities at the Base
+1 The calm environment, shielded by the cliffs, makes it an ideal place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Beyond the beach, visitors can explore the charming promenade and the lush plantations. The on-site restaurant offers a chance to sample delicious organic food, featuring fresh ingredients grown locally.
While the kitchen has an early closing time (16:30), the opportunity to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and the unique agricultural landscape makes Fajã dos Padres a memorable destination for a leisurely day. 
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