Canico de Baixo holidays pack in pretty pebbly beaches, both new and old towns, and easy access to the famous city of Funchal.
Two-part town
Mile-long Canico de Baixo makes its home on Madeira’s south coast. The lower section of the town stretches out over a short shelf of volcanic cliff, just above the shoreline. It’s dotted with fancy villas and luxe hotels that are geared up for package holidays. Trundle up the steep hill, and you’ll find yourself in the old town of Canico. This cobbled cluster of streets centres around a pocket-sized square and an 18th-century church. Meander inland a little more to get to a few of the island’s famous levada walking trails.
Seaside style
When it comes to beaches, this place majors in pretty pebble-strewn numbers. The best of the beachy bunch is Praia dos Reis Magos. This Blue Flag-waving spot features a bar, restaurant, and sunbeds. Plus, you can get involved with watersports if you fancy it. There’s also a large lido for swimmers and plenty of wide, weather-smoothed rocks for sunbathing. If you’re after sand, take a daytrip to Porto Santo Island, Madeira's little sister. The journey here takes less than three hours, and you’ll be greeted by lashings of caramel-coloured sand.
