Viewpoints

Madeira's last volcanic eruption took place 890,000 years ago. However, its volcanic past is still evident in its landscape of peaks and cliffs. You will find stunning views and dramatic viewpoints (miradouro) all over the Islands. At most of the viewpoints, there are benches where you can sit and enjoy the view.

Boca da Encumeada

Situated between Ribeira Brava and São Vicente, Boca da Encumeada offers dazzling views over the mountains and the sea. On a clear day, you can see across to the coast at São Vicente in the north and Ribeira Brava in the south. At other times, you will stand looking down over the surreal set of white clouds.

On EN 104 road, 43 km northwest of Funchal

Snack bar alongside the viewpoint car park

Take bus#6 and #139(3-4 daily; 2hr; Avoid those bypass Encumeada via the tunnel, signed "via túnel"

Pico do Arieiro

Pico de Arieiro is the third highest peak on Madeira and its easy accessibility from central Funchal makes it the most popular of the peaks. Offering stupendous views, this viewpoint can be best enjoyed at sunset or sunrise.
As the road climbs up, central Madeira's green forests gives its way to landscape of turf and later on to rocks. Traveling through fluffy clouds welcomed by sunshine at the end leaves its visitors impressed.

Snack bar at viewpoint

Pico Ruivo

Madeira's highest peak at 1862m offers spectacular panoramic views over the entire island. Despite its height, a good paved path makes it rather easy to reach. Best views can be enjoyed early in the morning, but be aware, you may need a light jacket as it can be cold on the mountain top and sun lotion against sunburns.

Nearest restaurant is in Santana. Drinks can be bought at the rest house below the summit (Open only on peak season).

The Clifftops at Ponta de São Lourenço

Situated on three purple rocks known as "seahorses" at Madeira's easternmost point, this little viewpoint offers stunning westwards view of dramatic cliffs and the sea. People stop here to enjoy the views over sheer drops.

There are no cafés nearby, but stallholders occasionally turn up in the car park to sell cold drinks and fruit.

The Eira do Serrado above Curral das Feiras

Known as Nun's Corral and surrounded by some of Madeira's highest peaks, this hidden village is one of the most spectacularly located rural settlements on the island. This village was founded in sixteenth century by the nuns of Santa Clara Convent who took refuge in this valley to escape from pirate raids on Funchal. Today, neither the nuns nor the convent exist in this village and villagers survive on agriculture and tourism.

It is worth stopping at Eira do Serrado to enjoy the views from its viewpoint. As the view is from the bottom looking up, it may not as stunning as the other viewpoints. However, there are other attractions: Local specialities, licor de castanha (chestnut liqueur), chestnut bread, soup and cakes.

One of the best times to visit is in November when Festa da Castanha, chestnut fair takes place.

Located 20 km northwest of Funchal

Catch Bus#81 from Funchal (Mon-Fri hourly, Sat& Sun 8 daily; 1hr 15 min)