Ribeira Brava sits where one of Madeira's deepest valleys meets the southern coast — the town's name means "Wild River", a reminder of the fierce torrents that once carved the valley above. The seafront promenade, the Manueline church of São Bento, the regional museum and the black pebble beach make it a rewarding stop, while the road north through the valley leads to some of the island's most spectacular mountain scenery.