Madalena do Mar – All About Bananas!
History: A Touch of Mystery …
Madalena do Mar is a small village located on the southwest coast of the island and belongs to the municipality of Ponta do Sol. The village’s origins are somewhat lost in the shadows of history.
It is known that Henry the German (Henrique Alemao), a 15th-century Polish prince, lost a battle. From here, there are two versions:
Legend tells of Henry the German (Henrique Alemao), a 15th-century Polish prince whose fate is closely intertwined with Madalena do Mar. After a lost battle, João Gonçalves Zarco, the discoverer of Madeira, offered him land. Here, Henry the German is said to have founded a farm and built a chapel dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene.
An alternative theory suggests that Henry the German might have been King Ladislaus III of Poland. After the Battle of Varna, he is believed to have sought asylum from the Portuguese king, who granted him land on Madeira. Ladislaus is also said to have established a farm and the chapel here, where, according to legend, he was also buried.
Sugar Cane and Bananas
The coastal village was an important center of sugar cane production, and it is understandable that this „white gold“ was processed locally. Unfortunately, only old archives contain references to a sugar cane mill in Madalena do Mar. Its owner must have been a certain Manuel Dias.
Today, however, green banana plantations characterize the village, and it is easy to see that some of Madeira’s largest banana plantations are located here. Madalena do Mar is known for its sweet Madeira bananas, which are considered a delicacy. In a central packing station, the fruits are prepared for export.
A highlight of the year is the Banana Exhibition in July, where impressive banana plants are displayed. Visitors can learn more about banana cultivation and taste local delicacies at various stands. Of course, there is also a stage for musical performances – in short, there is a lot of celebrating.
Rota da Banana (Banana Route)
During a walk through the banana plantations, you can experience the cultivation and harvesting of the popular fruit up close. It goes uphill and downhill, always with a magnificent view of the landscape. The path also leads through the small village center, which exudes a certain tranquility.
Strolling through the village, you shouldn’t miss the 16th-century parish church with its noteworthy altarpieces. It’s worth a visit. The hiking trail through the banana plantations is mapped on AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/de/route/portugal/madeira–2/rota-da-banana-madalena-do-mar
Experiencing Fishing
Fishing is still a traditional economic sector in Madalena do Mar. At the eastern end of the village, you can see how fishermen live and work. The small houses in front of the old tunnel are still the home of fishermen today. Directly opposite, a short road leads through the rock to the picturesque harbor.
Beach and Promenade
Promenade
The long promenade of Madalena do Mar offers a magnificent view of the sea and the surrounding mountains. You will be amazed at how far the banana plantations stretch up the mountain! Along the promenade and in the village center, restaurants and bars invite you to linger.
Beach
Madalena do Mar offers many hours of sunshine and a sheltered bay. The water is crystal clear – except when the river washes down mud from the mountains after rainfall. Located in Banda d’Além, the beach is in the western part of the village. The mixture of small pebbles and black sand allows easy access to the sea, which boasts pleasant water temperatures at this point (about 18 °C in winter, 24 °C in summer).
If you prefer to sit in the sun and chill with a cold drink, then „Bar Dona Maria“ offers the perfect setting.
Conclusion: A Small Paradise
Madalena do Mar is a charming village that attracts visitors with its relaxed atmosphere, picturesque landscape, and sweet bananas. Whether you’re looking for an active vacation or relaxation – everyone will find their happiness here.
Madalena do Mar can be reached by bus. Take the 8 or 80 from SIGA Rodoeste at Avenida do Mar and you will arrive in Madalena in around 1.5 hours.
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