Batu Maung Fishing Village

Written by John Reality, Cambodia, February 2013

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Nature & Wildlife, Off-the-Beaten Path, Swim & Snorkel, Island

Information

Comment from John Reality

Rugged Porto Moniz is tucked away in the north-western corner of Portugal’s holiday island of Madeira, reached from Funchal, the island’s capital, by scenic rail trip of 30 miles (48 km). It is famous for its series of natural swimming pools, hidden among the black volcanic rocks at the base of the bluff cliffs along the shoreline. They are protected from the strong currents of the Atlantic by a curved spit of land punctuated by the islet of Ilhéu Mole.

The old village of Porto Moniz itself sits high on a hillside – originally to protect it inhabitants from pirates – and tumbles down towards the seafront; in summer it is inundated with swimmers attracted by the natural pools among the stumps of lava rock. Now a lido has been built to allow safe swimming as well as create a sunbathing area, shower facilities, and a restaurant selling delicious fresh seafood. In winter strong Atlantic swells may close the pool complex periodically.

Editor’s Note: This recommendation was taken from our Malaysia Things to Do blog. Visit the original post to continue reading the full post and to learn more about things to do in Malaysia.

Photo courtesy of Marufish via Flickr

Latest Replies

Add review or reply

We don't have any reviews for this recommendation – be the first to review it! Simply click Add Review above and share your opinion.