Curral das Freiras

Best things to do in Curral das Freiras

Curral Das Freiras Essentials

Curral das Freiras, or Nuns' Valley, is a secluded village situated in a deep volcanic crater in central Madeira. Historically, it served as a 16th-century refuge for nuns from Funchal’s Santa Clara Convent during pirate attacks. The area is renowned for its chestnut production, featured in local cakes, soups, and the annual Chestnut Festival. High-altitude viewpoints like Eira do Serrado provide panoramas of the village, while steep trails connect the valley to Pico Ruivo and Pico das Torres, the island's highest summits.

Curral Das Freiras Essentials — Map

A

Ruivo Peak

Pico Ruivo is the highest peak on Madeira Island. It can be reached only by foot, usually either from Pico do Areeiro after a strenuous hike…

José Lemos Silva / CC BY-SA 4.0

B

Miradouro do Ninho da Manta

Situated along the trail between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo, this viewpoint offers sightings of the rare Zino's petrel and expansive views across the central mountain range and the Ribeira da Metade valley.

C

Curral das Freiras

A secluded village in a deep volcanic crater that served as a 16th-century sanctuary for nuns fleeing pirate raids. It is the central hub for the valley's chestnut orchards and mountain trails.

D

Montado do Paredão EAST

High-altitude viewpoint overlooking the Curral das Freiras valley and the surrounding central massif, located near the mountain pass leading toward Eira do Serrado.

patano / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

View Point

Situated at 1,095 meters, this terrace provides a direct vertical perspective of the village of Curral das Freiras and the jagged peaks of the central mountain range.

F

Pico das Torres

Pico das Torres is the second highest peak on the Atlantic island of Madeira, Portugal.

G

Vale das Freiras

Local restaurant specializing in traditional Madeiran cuisine, particularly dishes and desserts incorporating the valley's signature chestnuts.

H

Poço do Chefe

A natural river pool and waterfall located in the valley, known for its clear mountain water and accessible via a short walking path.

I

Boca dos Namorados

A panoramic viewpoint and mountain pass at 1,000 meters altitude, serving as a starting point for hiking trails descending into the village below.

J

Paróquia de Nossa Senhora do Livramento

The village's main Catholic church, built in the 19th century, serves as the focal point for the annual Chestnut Festival and local religious celebrations.

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Scenic Lookouts