chamber of wolves village

Câmara de Lobos is believed to be the original landing site of the Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco, who discovered Madeira Island in 1419. When he arrived, he found a natural harbor shaped like an amphitheater—perfectly protected from the Atlantic Ocean.

In this same bay, Zarco and his crew discovered a large colony of monk seals (lobos-marinhos), which inspired the name “Câmara de Lobos.”

Today, the town is known for its colorful fishing port, traditional lifestyle, and local culture—including the famous drying of fish along the harbor.

Staying at Villa Supranee places you just minutes from this historic and picturesque location, where you can experience the true spirit of Madeira.

About Câmara de Lobos

Câmara de Lobos is a charming coastal town on the southern side of Madeira Island, just minutes from the capital city of Funchal. Its name means “Chamber of Wolves,” referring to the monk seals once found in its bay.

Today, it is a lively yet peaceful fishing village, known for its beautiful harbor, local culture, and authentic Madeira atmosphere. While close to Funchal and part of its greater area, Câmara de Lobos offers a more relaxed and traditional island experience.

Staying at Villa Supranee places you right in the heart of this unique location—close to the city, yet surrounded by charm, ocean views, and local life.

Located just minutes from Funchal, the charming village of Câmara de Lobos is one of the most picturesque and authentic spots on Madeira Island.

Its name dates back to the island’s discovery, when explorer João Gonçalves Zarco found a bay filled with monk seals (lobos-marinhos). Today, it is a peaceful fishing village known for its colorful boats, fresh seafood, and stunning ocean views.

Staying at Villa Supranee means you are perfectly located to enjoy this unique destination—just 10 minutes from the city, yet surrounded by local charm, culture, and natural beauty.

Experience the true spirit of Madeira while enjoying comfort, tranquility, and unforgettable views.

Aerial view of the built-up areas of Câmara de Lobos along the coast, with the steep cliffs of Cabo Girão in the distance

📷The main settlement of Câmara de Lobos, and first area settled by colonists to this area

Câmara de Lobos is the second largest settlement by population in Madeira with the largest (45%) contribution of youth under 25 years. Located within the metropolitan zone of Funchal, it is limited to the east by Funchal (through the parish of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos); to the west by the municipality of Ribeira Brava and the steep cliffs of Cabo Girão (one of the highest cliffs in Europe: 580 meter elevation); and north by the municipalities of Santana and São Vicente (and the mountains of Pico de Arieiro); while fronting the Atlantic Ocean to the south (except an area in the southwest near Quinta Grande (Fajã dos Padres) whose coast is part of the neighbouring parish of Campanário in Ribeira BravaThe decree of 1955 (No.40.221/5 July 1955) defines these limits more explicitly. but allows for interpretations:"In the north, from Pico do Arieiro, the municipal limit follows the line from the heights defined by Pedra Rija, Pico do Cidrão, Pico do Gato, Pico das Torres, Pico da Cágada, Pico Ruivo de Santana, Pico da Lapa da Cadela, Pico do Coelho, Pico das Eirinhas, Pico da Laje, Pico das Torrinhas, Pico Casado and Pico do Jorge. On the west, follow Pico do Jorge along a line in the altitudes specified by the Pico Arranha-Mata, Pico do Cerco, Pico Grande, Pico do Serradinho, Boca do Paço de Aires, Boca dos Corgos, Alto dos Aviceiros, Lombo do Covão, or Estrebaria, Pico do Trevo, Eira das Moças and Pico da Cruz, where they follow the road of Achada in Campanário until Vera Cruz, continuing through the escarpment of Partilha until an escarpment overlooing the sea, conforming to demarkations signed by cadastral services. To the south, the municipality is limited by the foremetioned escarpment until the mouth of the Ribeira da Quinta Grande and then by the coast line until the ravine in Socorridos, but not including the Fajã dos Padres. The east corresponds to the western limit of the municipality of Funchal, or specifically the line that exits Pico do Serrado and follows Lombo da Partilha until the confluence of the ravine of Eiroses and Socorridos, which serves as the municipalities limit until the ocean. 

Although agriculture and fishing are still considered the primary sources of income, the area has grown as an extension of the tourism industry in the neighboring parishes. Its local development prospects are tied to the growing tourist market, while for six centuries of history it has been associated with the fishing and agriculture, in particular bananas and other fruits common to the island. Further, Madeira Wine, an important industry on the island, continues to drive the cultivation of local vineyards.