Canhas is a small village in the municipality of Ponta do Sol, in the Portuguese island of Madeira. The agricultural way of life takes you back in old times, when nature was human's friend. It is one of the access doors to Paul da Serra, the amazing and the only plateau in Madeira. Paul da Serra is the only source that feeds the stream-lets that flowing down the Island.
Canhas has a very warm climate, with temperatures 17°C / 62.6°F in the winter and 28°C / 82.4°F in the summer. If you can’t take the heat and you need fresh air, don’t worry because Canhas provides you with the opportunity for paragliding.
Feel the adrenaline while you are looking this beautiful and peaceful landscape from up there. Let the air freshen your red cheeks, leave everything and enjoy for a while the opportunity to feel free like a bird.
In Canhas, the GPS coordinates for the take off are 32°42’10” (32.7029)N, 17°7’33” (17.1261)W (Elevation : 481 m/1578 ft). It’s the best take off in Madeira for teaching the new pilots, a gentle grass slope. For landing the GPS coordinates are 32°42’4″ (32.7013)N, 17°8’12” (17.1369)W (Elevation : 14 m/46 ft).
The landing point is just in front of the Madalena do Mar beach. Don’t land on the promenade. You can go there from Funchal to Ponta do Sol in the beginning, then continue to Madalena do Mar beach and get the road up to Canhas. The region is for private taking-off, but it’s free to use. You should first get in touch with the AVLM (Association of hang-gliding and paragliding of Madeira). You must have a valid pilot license and also a valid insurance policy.
In Canhas, when you are not flying, you can do other activities and find beautiful accommodations for some relaxing moments.
