The iconic Bar Filhos do Mar is recognized as the home of the best Poncha on Madeira Island and the oldest bar on the entire island.
For further information about Madeira, read “Things To Do In Madeira“. For a guide to Funchal: “What To Do In Funchal“.
It is at the corner of Largo do Poço and São João de Deus streets, near the small fishing port of Câmara de Lobos.
Address
Largo do Poço, 9300-130 Câmara de Lobos
email: barfilhosdomar@gmail.com
Phone
291 943 907
Map
Amidst the several offerings, the Poncha of Madeira stands out, accompanied by peanuts. We discovered numerous types of ponchas, such as Passionfruit, Tangerine, Vasco da Gama, La Negra, and Absinthe, to name a few, an extensive variety.
The famous Poncha (19th century) was born at Câmara de Lobos. Invented by fishermen to alleviate the arduous labour at sea and to cure colds and flu.
It was common for a fisherman to consume up to 10 ponchas daily!
Before returning home, they chewed on the lemon rind to disguise the alcohol scent…
The space is small, featuring outdoor as well as indoor tables, where we admire images of various celebrities on the walls.
Visitors to the island cannot leave without visiting this bar.
Orlando Barros, the founder’s grandson, has a stern expression on his face that is typical of someone who grew up around daring fishermen.
In actuality, he is a good-natured person.
When Orlando makes the customary punch in front of them, he mesmerizes everyone with his skill and reverence for history. He mixes the ingredients with a wooden tool called caralhinho, adding lemon juice, honey or sugar, sugarcane liquor, and lemon peel.
The traditional punch is known in the establishment as the “Poncha do Pescador“.
The prices are fair and among the most accessible on the island.
Furthermore, we recommend trying the Nikita drink, which is a true delight.
It also has its roots in Câmara de Lobos. It is made with a slice of pineapple, white wine, white beer, vanilla ice cream, and sugar, all mixed until it becomes a seductive and creamy mixture.
Things to do nearby:
Vigário Beach
The Vigário Beach is a beautiful beach at the foot of the bay, offering a wide range of facilities for visitors to enjoy. With its excellent infrastructure, visitors can take advantage of the clean and well-maintained sanitary facilities, and refreshing showers.
Nossa da Conceição Chapel
The Nossa Senhora da Conceição Chapel is a historical site of great importance, next to the statue of Winston Churchill. Some scholars believe it to be the oldest chapel on the island, making it a valuable part of the region’s cultural heritage.
The cliffs of Girão Cape are awe-inspiring. As you stand on the edge and feel the strong wind, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking view of the waves crashing against the rocks below. The sheer size and majesty of the cliffs will leave a lasting impression on your memory.
Eira do Serrado
When you go to Eira do Serrado you can’t help but notice how beautiful Madeira’s hilly terrain is. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the small village Curral das Freiras encircled by high mountains.te.
