Curral das Freiras: The Nuns' Valley

Curral das Freiras, the “Nuns’ Valley”, is a village hidden at the bottom of a deep, mountain-ringed valley in the heart of Madeira. Nuns from Funchal are said to have hidden here from pirates. The view from the Eira do Serrado viewpoint above is one of the most spectacular on the island.

Quick answer: Curral das Freiras is about 30 minutes from Funchal. Stop at the Eira do Serrado viewpoint for the view down into the valley, then drive or walk down to the village. Try the local chestnut specialities: cake, soup and liqueur. A chestnut festival takes place around the start of November. See places to stay.

Things to do

• Eira do Serrado: a viewpoint high above the valley.
• The village: a quiet church square surrounded by peaks.
• Chestnuts: cakes, soup and chestnut liqueur.
• Hiking: an old path links the viewpoint and the village.

Tips

• Clouds: the valley can fill with mist, so come on a clear morning.
• Tours: many Madeira tours include the viewpoint. See the best Madeira tours.

More: the Madeira itinerary and Portugal’s hidden gems.

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