Fajã da Ovelha ("Sheep's Plateau") is one of Madeira's most remote and authentic villages, perched on dramatic cliffs on the island's wild west coast. The name comes from the coastal plateaus formed by ancient landslides where sheep once grazed.

How to Get to Fajã da Ovelha by Bus

Reaching Fajã da Ovelha requires a scenic journey through the mountains or along the coast:

Funchal ↔ Porto Moniz

The northwest coastal route via Paul da Serra. Scenic mountain crossing takes about 2 hours.

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Funchal ↔ Calheta

The south coast route. Connect at Calheta for onward travel to Fajã da Ovelha.

💡 Travel Tip: This is one of Madeira's most remote destinations accessible by public bus. Check bus schedules carefully as services are infrequent. Bring snacks and water as services in the village are limited.

What to See in Fajã da Ovelha

Experience authentic Madeiran rural life largely unchanged for centuries. The parish church of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte dates from the 17th century. Walk through terraced fields still cultivated by hand. Dramatic clifftop viewpoints offer sunset views toward the Desertas Islands. The Raposeira area features traditional stone wine presses.

Best Time to Visit

Summer for reliable weather and the longest days. Spring brings wildflowers to the clifftops. This is a destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path. Allow a full day for the round trip from Funchal.