Casas da Levada

Casas da Levada is a family-run agritourism at Ponta do Pargo, at the western end of Madeira, on the edge of the Laurissilva forest. Six restored houses of different sizes, offered as bed and breakfast or self-catering, are spread across a green hillside with views of the Atlantic. Levadas, Madeira's traditional irrigation channels, run through the grounds, which also hold a pool and a small bar with a planted roof.

The property has followed permaculture since it was created. Guests can pick vegetables and aromatic herbs freely from the organic gardens, the orchards grow lemons, oranges, medlars and pears, and cider is made on the farm. Chickens, sheep, rabbits and ducks are kept outdoors. The practices listed by the owners include rainwater harvesting, solar panels, wastewater treatment in biological septic tanks, planting of native and endemic species, building with natural materials, waste separation and no disposable plastics.

Walking trails and levada paths are within easy reach of the houses, and the hosts arrange activities such as birdwatching, whale and dolphin watching, canyoning, yoga and surfing. Ponta do Pargo belongs to the municipality of Calheta and is reached by road along the island's south-west coast from Funchal.