The Engenho Da Calheta is a museum immersing visitors in sugar cane production. The space is warm and welcoming, with the sweet aroma of rum lingering in the air. Learn all about Madeira in “What To Do In Madeira” and take a detailed tour of Funchal in “What To Do In Funchal“.
We are greeted with a warm smile from the team and invited on an unforgettable journey through the history of this rum factory, dating back to 1901.
- Coordinates: 32.722786, -17.177349
Address
Avenida D. Manuel I 29, Lombo Do Doutor
This historic site is one of the oldest sugar cane mills in Madeira. It is still in operation, and it is also a living museum that showcases the ancient centennial machinery and production process that remains faithful to traditional methods.
- Phone: 291822118
- email: engenhosdacalheta@sapo.pt
Map
Opening Hour:
Every day from 10:00 to 18:30.
Price
Admission is free.
As we wander through space, we are transported in time. We learn the various stages of the production process, from harvesting to distillation, where the juice of the cane is transformed into high-quality rum.
The internal shop offers drinks produced and regional sweets, with a highlight on the best honey cakes of Madeira.
We tasted the famous Poncha and various cocktails made with the rum produced here – enchanted by the sweet flavours of honey, vanilla and coffee that differentiate this product.
The Calheta Sugar Mill is amazing to learn about the history of sugar production in Madeira and to try some of the best drinks produced on the island.
In the 15th century, Madeira had sugar as its main wealth. It was traded to as distant markets as the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
However, competition from sugar cane in Brazil in the 16th century caused the decline of this economic activity.
Then, the cultivation of the vineyard was the choice. By the end of the 19th century, the sugar cane culture flourished again. The first distillation sugar cane mills of brandy emerged on the island.
Things to do nearby:
The picturesque municipality culminates at the charming Calheta Beach, a serene and sheltered haven perfect for lounging in the scorching sun and plunging into the crystal-clear waters of the ocean.
The Espírito Santo Church in Calheta is a 16th-century temple. It boasts a notable Moorish-style ceiling, similar to that of the Funchal Cathedral, and a stunning altar with elaborate silver embellishments, gifted by King Dom Manuel I.
Not far away, in Ponta de Sol, the stunning Cascata dos Anjos Waterfall is a magnificent spectacle for tourists, who gather to admire the waterfall that runs alongside the regional road and merges with the sea.
The Levada do Moinho is a scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the local flora and fauna, culminating in a spring that forms a stunning waterfall.
Continuing eastward, the Fajã dos Padres is a pebble beach beside a towering cliff that promises a magical experience with an unforgettable sunset.
