Is Calheta Worth Visiting Solo? Solo Female Travel in Calheta

Home

Solo Travel

Europe

Portugal

Calheta

Calheta, a delightful municipality located on the southwestern coast of Madeira Island, Portugal, is a dreamy travel destination known for its picturesque landscapes and peaceful ambiance. Its white sandy beaches, a rarity on the island, beautifully contrast with the deep azure Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors a tranquil respite. Calheta is popular for its sugar cane production, with the renowned Sugar Cane Factory serving both as a notable landmark and a beacon of the area's rich history. Here, you can savor the authentic taste of 'aguardente,' a local rum made from sugar cane. It's also a paradise for adventure enthusiasts who can explore the entrancing levada walks or embark on a thrilling deep-sea fishing journey. The presence of the striking modern art center, Casa das Mudas, adds a blend of contemporary culture, making Calheta a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure and tradition.

3.9 /5

Based on our research

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.

Safety:Very safe

Calheta is considered to be very safe for solo female travelers. The crime rate is notably low and the locals are friendly and respectful towards tourists. Public transport is also reliable and safe. Nevertheless, like everywhere, travelers should be cautious, keep their belongings secure, and avoid walking alone at night in deserted places.

Transport:Moderate

Calheta is a quiet, scenic town. However, the transportation facilities aren't many, so you might have to rely on your own feet or hire a taxi for travelling around more often. The public transportation system is not frequent but is reliable. Knowing a bit of Portuguese may help ease communication when asking for directions or waiting times.

Things to do:Interesting

Calheta is fairly exciting for solo female travelers. It's particularly known for its stunning golden sand beaches and marina, which is perfect for sunbathing and yacht gazing. There are numerous water activities such as whale-watching, deep sea fishing, and boating. The town also boasts a rich cultural history with attractions like the Sacred Art Center and Casa das Mudas Art Center. The hiking trails, especially those leading to the beautiful waterfall '25 Fontes', are invigorating and the natural scenery is a feast for the eyes. However, night-time activities are a bit lacking in comparison to larger cities.

Food:Above average

Calheta, despite being a relatively small area, has a rich and diverse array of gastronomy. You can taste traditional Portuguese dishes, fresh seafood, and delicious desserts which are locally produced. Vegetarian and vegan options may be somewhat limited. The quality is impeccable - always fresh and flavorful. Wine lovers will appreciate the excellent selection of local wines too.

Budget:Affordable

Calheta is quite budget-friendly, especially for a solo female traveler. The costs for food, transportation, and accommodation are relatively low compared to other European destinations. Most of the attractions, including its stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails, are free to explore. However, for activities like yacht tours or visits to art centres, there may be some charges. Overall, it provides an affordable travel experience.

No experience found

We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo. Be the first to share your experience and help us empower more women through travel.

Meet local women in Calheta who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.