Portugal
20 Best Viewpoints in Madeira- Ultimate Travel Guide
Madeira is a place that completely stole our hearts, from the moment we set foot on this island, we were captivated by its rugged beauty, lush greenery, and dramatic cliffs that seemed to rise out of nowhere. In this post, we’re sharing the 20 best viewpoints in Madeira that absolutely took our breath away. If you’re planning a trip, trust us—you won’t want to miss these spots. We loved every second, and we hope this list inspires you to fall in love with Madeira, too.
1. Pico do Arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is one of Madeira’s most iconic peaks, rising to 1,818 meters and offering panoramic views above the clouds. It’s the island’s third-highest mountain and a popular spot for sunrise, when the sky turns pink and golden above a sea of mist-covered valleys.
A highlight of the area is the trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, a dramatic ridge walk through rugged volcanic landscapes, tunnels, and jagged cliffs. Even if you don’t do the full hike, just arriving at the summit is breathtaking—especially on clear mornings or during sunset.
Parking: There’s a free parking lot right at the summit, making access easy by car. Just arrive early if you’re going for sunrise, as it gets busy with photographers and hikers.
Tips:
- Sunrise is magical – Arrive 30–40 minutes before the official sunrise time to catch the shifting colors and, if you’re lucky, an ocean of clouds below.
Bring a headlamp or flashlight if you’re hiking at sunrise or planning to return at dusk—there are tunnels and uneven paths.
Check the weather webcams before you go. Pico do Arieiro is often above the clouds, but it can also be completely fogged in.
If you’re not up for the full hike but still want a taste of the scenery, do the 15–20 minute out-and-back walk to Miradouro do Ninho da Manta—it’s stunning, and not too challenging.
2. Pico ruivo
Pico Ruivo is the highest peak in Madeira at 1,862 meters, offering incredible 360° views across the island. On clear days, you can see all the way to the coast, the jagged central mountains, and sometimes even the sea of clouds below. It’s less visited than Pico do Arieiro at sunrise, so it feels more peaceful—especially early in the morning.
The most accessible route is the trail from Achada do Teixeira, which is well-paved and relatively easy, making it great even for beginner hikers or families.
3. Cabo Girão
Cabo Girão is one of Madeira’s most iconic natural landmarks—a towering sea cliff that drops over 580 meters straight down to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s one of the highest cliffs in Europe, and the views are absolutely breathtaking.
The star feature is the skywalk, a glass-floored platform that extends over the edge, offering a thrilling (and slightly vertigo-inducing) experience as you look straight down to the ocean and the terraced farmlands below.
- There’s a free parking lot just near the viewpoint—free and usually with enough space.
After stop by Câmara de Lobos, a traditional fishing village nearby—perfect for lunch after your visit! It has first ponchas bar Bar Filhos do Mar, often referred to as the “original poncha bar,” where you can savor authentic poncha flavors in a setting steeped in local history
The authentic poncha is traditionally called “Poncha de Pescador” (Fisherman’s Poncha), and its original recipe includes just three simple ingredients:
Aguardente de cana (distilled sugarcane spirit, locally produced in Madeira)
Fresh lemon juice (or sometimes orange juice)
Bee honey
These are mixed vigorously with a special wooden tool called a “mexelote” or “caralhinho” to emulsify the honey and juice with the spirit, by the way, this is also a fun and practical souvenir to bring home from Madeira, as many local shops and markets sell them, often handcrafted.
This classic version is strong, zesty, and warming — exactly what Madeira’s fishermen needed before heading out to sea.
4. Miradouro de São Lourenço
Located on Madeira’s eastern tip, this viewpoint offers a dramatic contrast to the island’s lush interior. The landscape here is wild and wind-swept, with volcanic cliffs dropping sharply into the Atlantic. We visited around 10 AM — the view was absolutely beautiful, though there were already quite a few people around. It’s especially stunning in the early morning light.
- Viewpoint: Best accessed from the parking area at the start of the PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail. You can enjoy views after just a short walk up the initial hill, even if you don’t hike the full trail.
- Tip: It’s often windy and exposed here, so bring a jacket — and if you’re going for sunrise, arrive early and pack a flashlight or headlamp for safety.
5. Ponta do bode
A quiet, lesser-known viewpoint near Caniçal offering dramatic red and orange cliffs with views toward the eastern tip of Madeira. The layered volcanic landscape and raw coastal scenery make this a peaceful alternative to the more popular spots. We were there around 7 or 8 AM — there was no one else, just the sound of the ocean and wind shaping the silence.
Viewpoint: A short walk leads through striking red sand and stone terrain to an open clifftop vista.
🅿️ Park at Cemitério do Caniçal and continue on foot where the road narrows into the hills — it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the viewpoint.
6. Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
One of Madeira’s most iconic viewpoints, named after the “Bridal Veil” waterfall that cascades down the cliffside, creating a stunning white veil effect. The viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline, with lush green hills on one side and the vast Atlantic on the other. This side of the island became our favorite, and we stayed in São Vicente, visiting this viewpoint often. We loved São Vicente more than Funchal for its peaceful charm, less touristy feel, and the lush, green side of the island that offered a refreshing contrast to the more developed southern coast.
- Viewpoint: A wide, open panorama of the waterfall and rugged cliffs, with a view stretching across the sea.
- Tip: This is an excellent spot for early morning or late afternoon visits when the light is soft and the area is quieter.
7. Miradouro da Ribeira da Laje
Tucked away near São Vicente, this lesser-known viewpoint offers a peaceful escape with views over the steep Ribeira da Laje valley and the surrounding laurel forest. It’s not as popular as other stops along the northern coast, which makes it ideal for a quiet moment surrounded by Madeira’s raw, green beauty. The drive to get here is scenic, winding through lush mountain roads.
- Expect a dramatic view down into the deep, narrow valley carved by the Ribeira da Laje river, framed by forested slopes. If you follow the road down toward the ocean, you’ll find even more breathtaking views — truly a spot to fall in love with.
8. Sao Vicente
Nestled between green mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, São Vicente is one of Madeira’s most charming and peaceful villages. Its narrow streets, traditional basalt-stone houses, and riverside promenade give it a timeless, authentic atmosphere. The surrounding area is lush and wild, perfect for nature lovers, and less crowded than Funchal, making it a perfect base for slow, scenic exploration.
Viewpoint: Walk along the seafront promenade or drive up to the hillside roads for sweeping coastal and mountain views. The whole northern coastline here feels cinematic — especially around sunset when the cliffs glow golden.
Local Delight: This is where you’ll find our favorite restaurant on the island — Braseiro Grill by 351 Food. We ate here every evening while staying in São Vicente, and even drove back from Funchal for our final night just to enjoy it once more. The grilled meats (espetadas) are all excellent — I loved the chicken, and my husband’s favorite was the mixed meats. The prices are surprisingly affordable, and you can also enjoy a glass of Madeira wine with your meal.
9. Miradouro da Ribeira da Janela
Located on the rugged north coast of Madeira, this viewpoint offers one of the most dramatic and photogenic scenes on the island. From here, you’ll see giant rock formations rising from the ocean—especially the iconic sea stacks shaped by centuries of Atlantic winds and waves. The viewpoint is peaceful and often quiet, perfect for watching the crashing surf or catching the changing light of early morning and late afternoon.
- Tip: This is a great spot to combine with a scenic drive along the north coast. Bring your camera — and patience — as the waves create mesmerizing movement around the rocks.
10. Ponta do Pargo lighthouse
Located at Madeira’s westernmost point, the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse stands atop towering sea cliffs over 300 meters high. Built in 1922, it still operates today and offers sweeping views over the Atlantic, making it one of the island’s most iconic and windswept viewpoints. The surrounding landscape is dramatic and peaceful, especially during sunset when the ocean glows in deep golden tones.
- Tip: Arrive just before sunset for unforgettable views, but bring a jacket—it’s often windy. There’s also a small museum inside the lighthouse (open limited hours) if you’re interested in maritime history.
11. Miradouro da Ponta do Tristão
This was our absolute favorite viewpoint on the island for sunset. Located on the northwestern tip of Madeira, it offers dramatic coastal views with cliffs glowing in golden and orange hues as the sun dips into the Atlantic. The colors on the cliffs are simply breathtaking, and the area is usually quiet and peaceful — perfect for ending the day. Offering dramatic cliffs, deep ocean views, and a unique perspective over Porto Moniz and the rugged coastline.
Tip: Arrive at least 1 hour before sunset to fully enjoy the changing light, and be very careful where you step — there are no barriers, few people, and you’ll likely be alone on a cliff edge.
12. Miradouro da Eira da Achada
A peaceful viewpoint that offers a panoramic view over the northern coastline, lush forests, and rugged cliffs. It’s a fantastic place for a quiet moment away from the crowds. Perched above the cliffs of Madeira’s north coast near Ribeira da Janela, this lesser-known viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama of the rugged shoreline stretching between Seixal and Ponta Delgada.
Tip: The viewpoint faces east-northeast, so it’s ideal for sunrise or late afternoon visits when the cliffs are bathed in warm light.
This spot is also a great addition to a day exploring the north coast, with nearby attractions like the natural pools of Porto Moniz and the black sand beach of Seixal.
13. Miradouro da Portela
One of the best viewpoints in eastern Madeira, this spot offers an incredible view of Penha d’Águia, the massive rock formation that dominates the Porto da Cruz area. You can also see the coastline stretching toward Machico.
The viewpoint is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It features a small picnic area, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. The surrounding area is rich in flora, showcasing Madeira’s diverse plant life .
- Tip: To capture the best photographs, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is softer. The viewpoint is often less crowded during these times, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Additionally, nearby attractions include the town of Porto da Cruz and the Ponta de São Lourenço hiking trail.
14. Miradouro do Forte de São João Baptista
Located in the historic fort of Porto da Cruz, this viewpoint provides a unique perspective over the small coastal town, with the waves crashing against the volcanic rock formations below.
The fort’s elevated position allows for sweeping views of the surrounding coastline and ocean, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
- Tip: After enjoying the views, consider visiting the Madeira Aquarium located within the fort to learn more about the island’s marine life.
15. Miradouro da Boca do Risco
A hidden gem, this viewpoint offers a wild, untouched view of the northern coastline, accessible via a scenic hike from Porto da Cruz. The contrast between the deep blue Atlantic and the lush green cliffs is breathtaking.
Tip: The trail to Boca do Risco is considered challenging, with a total elevation gain of over 1,000 meters. It’s advisable to start the hike early in the day to fully appreciate the views and to ensure you have ample time to complete the trail.
16. Miradouro da Rocha do Navio
Overlooking the ocean and a small islet, this viewpoint offers a rugged coastal view. You can also take a cable car down to the fishing huts below or just enjoy the tranquil scenery from above.
Viewpoint: The viewpoint itself is easily accessible by car and offers a wide-angle view of the coastline, cliffs, and the Rocha do Navio islet. From here, you can either admire the scenery from above or take a cable car (or hike) down to the shoreline, where small agricultural plots and waterfalls await.
Tip: If you’re up for a short adventure, skip the cable car and hike down the old path—it’s steep but scenic, taking around 30–45 minutes. Bring sturdy shoes and water. For a bite afterward, head into Santana for traditional Madeiran dishes, we loved Marcel`s Bistro, food was very good and the owner was the sweetest.
17. Miradouro do Farol da Ponta do Pargo
Located at Madeira’s westernmost point, this viewpoint near the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse offers breathtaking sunset views over the Atlantic. It’s one of the most peaceful spots on the island. At an elevation of 290 meters, the site is dominated by the historic Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse, a 14-meter-tall structure that has been guiding ships since its inauguration in 1922. The lighthouse’s light sits at a focal height of 312 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest in Portugal.
Tip: Time your visit for the late afternoon to witness a breathtaking sunset, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden hues across the ocean. Be prepared for strong winds by bringing a jacket. The lighthouse also houses a small museum, established in 2001, which showcases photographs and documents related to Madeira’s maritime history.
18. Miradouro da Eira do Serrado
Positioned at 1,095 meters above sea level, it looks directly over Curral das Freiras (Nuns’ Valley), a deep basin surrounded by steep, jagged peaks formed by ancient volcanic activity. The view is dramatic and raw, especially when low clouds roll through the valley.
Tip: Come in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. After your visit, head down into the valley to try traditional chestnut-based dishes, especially in autumn when the harvest is celebrated with a local festival.
19. Miradouro da Garganta Funda
The 140-meter-high Garganta Funda (“Deep Throat”) waterfall plunges into a rugged ravine, framed by steep cliffs and lush greenery. The surrounding landscape is wild and windswept, with the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly beyond.
Tip: Visit after rainfall to see the waterfall at its most powerful, as it can dry up during summer months. We visited in November and there was nearly no water. The viewpoint is especially stunning during golden hour, when the setting sun casts warm hues over the landscape. There are no facilities on-site, so bring water and snacks, if you want to spend some time ther.
20. PICO DOS BARCELOS VIEWPOINT
Perched at 355 meters above sea level in the parish of Santo António, this viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama over Funchal’s amphitheater-like valley, the shimmering Atlantic, and, on clear days, the distant Desertas Islands. It’s a serene spot where the city’s vibrant life meets the tranquility of nature
Viewpoint: A short drive or bus ride from downtown Funchal brings you to this recently renovated terrace. The area now boasts landscaped gardens, leisure spaces, and stalls offering local crafts and delicacies. The platform provides an unobstructed 360-degree view, making it a favorite for photographers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Tip: Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset to witness the city bathed in warm hues.
