The parish of the livestock fair
The civil parish of Achadas da Cruz is located on the furthest north-western side of Madeira Island, between Ponta do Pargo and Ponta do Tristão.
 
Achadas da Cruz belongs to Porto Moniz municipality.
Due to its altitude, the settlement of Achadas da Cruz took a long time.
 
However, in the 3rd quarter of the 16th century, the first settlement was established in the area.
Achadas da Cruz has been the birth place of several individualities, who have remained in the history of the civil parish for one reason or another. Amongst them, was the great benefactor Manuel de Pontes Câmara, who contributed for the construction of the first chapel.
 
Achadas da Cruz is a small parish, whose economic activities rely on agriculture and cattle breeding. The traditional Livestock Fair that is held annually takes place in its own precinct.
The civil parish of Achadas da Cruz has about 220 inhabitants.
 
The climate is mild; a little rainy in the winter, but with average temperatures around 17ºC (63ºF).
 
How to Get There
To get to Achadas da Cruz from Funchal you need to take the freeway in the direction of Ribeira Brava (Funchal-Ribeira Brava). Once you get to Ribeira Brava, take the Estrada Regional 101 (regional road), towards the high mountains and less housing in the direction of São Vicente. There is a quicker route by tunnel or via the old road, which winds its way through the mountain from South to North with Encumeada at the top welcoming the magnificent northern hillsides.
 
After passing São Vicente, carry on until the coastal road and turn left in the direction of Porto Moniz. Go up the hill and you will arrive at your destination.
 
You can also get to Achadas da Cruz from the opposite side, coming from Ponta do Pargo or Paúl da Serra.