Stop at Camara de Lobos

The feast of St. John is very popular and is celebrated in various corners of the island. A highlight is undoubtedly Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village that owes its name to the presence of monk seals (lobos marinhos), which once abounded in the area, and was among the first places discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century. The village has a beautiful bay with colourful boats still in plain sight and where the link with the island's maritime culture is still strong. It is here that the Festa da Espada Preta is held in Câmara de Lobos (28 June - 2 July), which celebrates the black scabbard fish (typical of the island) and features live music, traditional dancing, a fireworks display and food stands serving local specialities. It is considered the quintessential Madeiran fishing town and became famous after British Prime Minister Winston Churchill immortalised it in a painting and a commemorative plaque in the centre of the town commemorates this historic event. Also not to be missed are the photographs of the Pestana Churchill Bay, the first hotel to open in the historical centre of Câmara de Lobos, located in the former Council Chamber and wholesale fish market buildings on the seafront whose rooms are inspired by Winston Churchill's paintings.