Ribeira Brava Light

Ribeira Brava Light (Farol da Ribeira Brava) is a compact lighthouse in the town of Ribeira Brava, on Madeira's south coast. It sits on a rocky headland above the Atlantic, roughly 16 km west of Funchal, and still works as an active navigation light.

What kind of lighthouse is it?

This is one of the island's smaller lights. The structure is a simple square tower about 6 metres tall with two levels: a wider white base topped by a red upper section. It dates from the 1930s, with 1930 the year most often cited. The lamp sits about 34 metres above sea level, a figure that comes from the height of the headland rather than the tower itself. The light shows a single red flash every five seconds.

Unlike the big cape lighthouses at Ponta do Pargo or São Lourenço, this one has a local job: marking the harbour area and the town's shoreline. Madeira's tourism board presents it as a reminder of the community's ties to the sea and its long fishing tradition.

How do you get there?

Ribeira Brava lies on the island's south side, about 16 km from Funchal. By car, the VR1 expressway gets you there in around 20 minutes; coastal buses also run the route. The lighthouse stands by the seafront part of town, close to the promenade and harbour, so it fits easily into a walk around the centre.

What else is nearby?

• The seafront promenade and pebble beach, with open Atlantic views.
• The town centre, with its parish church, main square, cafes and local restaurants.
• The Madeira Ethnographic Museum, in town, devoted to traditional island life.
• Nearby coastal stops such as Ponta do Sol, Câmara de Lobos and Cabo Girão.

When should you visit?

Madeira's south coast is generally sunnier than the north, so a seafront stroll works most of the year. Sunset gives the best photo light, and the red flash is easy to spot as dusk falls. A look at the lighthouse takes only a short while, so it works best as one stop in a longer visit to the town.

FAQ

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No. It is a small, working navigation aid and is viewed from outside.

When was the Ribeira Brava lighthouse built? In the 1930s; 1930 is the year usually given.

How far is it from Funchal? About 16 km west, roughly a 20-minute drive.

Is the light still in operation? Yes. It shows a red flash every five seconds.