Poncha Tavern (Taberna da Poncha): Classic Poncha in Serra de Água

Poncha Tavern, known locally as Taberna da Poncha, is a rustic roadside bar in the mountain valley of Serra de Água, about 10 km inland from Ribeira Brava. It's one of the most famous places on Madeira to try poncha, the island's traditional drink, made fresh at the counter the old-fashioned way.

Why Poncha Tavern Is Worth the Stop

Serra de Água is often called the home of poncha, and this tavern is the place most visitors associate with it. Every glass is muddled by hand right in front of you from sugarcane spirit (aguardente de cana), honey and fresh citrus juice, so you get it cloudy, frothy and strong, the way locals drink it. It's a popular stop for locals and travelers alike, especially on drives between the south coast and the north of the island.

What to Order

• Regional poncha: the classic version with lemon and orange juice, honey and sugarcane spirit.
• Passion fruit (maracujá) poncha: sweeter and fruitier, a favorite with first-timers.
• Tangerine and other fruit variations: depending on what's in season.
• Snacks: roasted peanuts and lupin beans are the classic bar snacks, and you'll also find simple food such as prego no bolo do caco (steak sandwich in garlic flatbread).

Poncha is much stronger than it tastes, so sip it slowly. If you're driving the mountain roads afterwards, let someone else in your group take the wheel.

The Atmosphere

Don't expect a polished cocktail bar. The walls are covered with business cards, banknotes and football scarves left by visitors over the years, barrels double as tables, and peanut shells traditionally end up on the floor. It's loud, casual and sociable, which is exactly its charm.

How to Get There

The tavern sits on the ER104, the valley road that climbs from Ribeira Brava through Serra de Água towards the Encumeada pass and São Vicente on the north coast. From Funchal, the drive takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes via the coastal expressway to Ribeira Brava. There's parking on site, which makes it an easy stop on a road trip across the island.

Good to Know

• Address: ER104, 329, 9350-309 Serra de Água, Ribeira Brava, Madeira
• Opening hours: daily, 10:00 to 01:00 (check the map link below before you go, as hours can change)
• Phone: +351 291 952 312
• Parking: available on site
• Payment: it's a good idea to carry some cash

Combine It With

Serra de Água is a green valley surrounded by levada trails, so the tavern pairs well with a walk nearby. Madeira Explorers runs a guided half-day Serra d'Água Valley walk, and our guide to the best levada walks in Madeira has more ideas. If you'd rather try poncha in Funchal, Taberna Ruel is a good option in the city. For more bars and restaurants, see Where to Eat on Madeira.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Poncha Tavern on Madeira?

It's on the ER104 in Serra de Água, part of the Ribeira Brava municipality, about 10 km inland from Ribeira Brava on the road towards Encumeada and São Vicente.

Is Taberna da Poncha the same as Poncha Tavern?

Yes. Taberna da Poncha is the Portuguese name, and many English-language guides and maps list it as Poncha Tavern.

What are the opening hours?

It's usually open every day from 10:00 until 01:00, including holidays. Check the map listing for current hours before you visit.

Which poncha should I try first?

Start with the classic regional poncha to taste the original, then try the passion fruit version if you prefer something sweeter.