Places
Best Viewpoints in Madeira Island: Area-by-Area Guide
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Short answerMadeira's best viewpoints are spread across the island, each offering a unique perspective. In Funchal, Pico dos Barcelos and Terreiro da Luta are great for sunrise and sunset, while Pico do Arieiro and Achada do Teixeira in the central mountains are best at sunrise. Coastal spots like Cabo Girão and Ponta do Garajau shine in the morning, and the north coast's Santana and Porto Moniz are ideal in the afternoon.
Funchal and Surroundings
Start with Pico dos Barcelos for a panoramic view over Funchal and the bay. It's easily accessible by car or bus and is particularly beautiful at sunrise when the city lights fade. Terreiro da Luta, near Monte, offers a higher perspective and is less crowded; go in the late afternoon for golden hour. For a quick stop, Lovers Cave and Forte São José provide coastal views, best in the morning light.
Travellers report that parking in Funchal is challenging, so consider going early or using public transport. The cable car to Monte is expensive and often has long queues, so plan accordingly.
Central Mountains: Pico do Arieiro and Achada do Teixeira
Pico do Arieiro is one of the most famous viewpoints, especially at sunrise above the clouds. However, travellers report that sunrise here is pretty crowded; rather go to Pico Ruivo for a similar experience with fewer people. Achada do Teixeira is the starting point for Pico Ruivo and offers stunning views, but parking can be difficult around midday.
Weather in the mountains is highly changeable, so bring layers and a rain jacket. The PR1 hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is spectacular but requires advance planning: buy a ticket for 10 EUR, set out early, and arrange return transport from Achada do Teixeira.
Local tipCheck the webcams before heading out, as the north and south of the island often have different weather. The free web app madeira.edza.lv lets you find warmth, sort by sun, and filter out high wind and rain, plus it shows hiking trails and webcams.
East Coast: Ponta do Garajau, Cristo Rei, and São Lourenço
Ponta do Garajau and Cristo Rei in Santa Cruz offer magnificent views over the Atlantic and the Garajau Marine Reserve. They are best visited in the morning when the sun illuminates the coast. São Lourenço, the eastern peninsula, has several viewpoints like São Lourenço and Ponta do Rosto, perfect for sunrise or early morning hikes before the crowds arrive.
Travellers report that PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço is extremely crowded, so get there as early as possible. The views from Pico do Furado and Boca do Risco in Machico are also worth the detour.
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North Coast: Santana, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente
In Santana, Penha de Águia and Fortim do Faial provide views over the mountains and coast. These are best in the afternoon when the north coast often clears up. Porto Moniz has Santinha and Boa Morte viewpoints, ideal for sunset over the ocean. São Vicente's Boca da Encumeada and Pico da Murta offer dramatic valley views, best in the morning.
Travellers report that the north has different weather than the south, so check webcams before deciding where to go. The roads are steep and winding, so drive carefully.
What travellers report
CVrent's Google Maps profile says 'closed temporarily' and the only reviews in the last month are all 1 star and all talking about cancelled bookings. Their booking system uses Anyrent so it's not possible to 'overlap bookings'.
You need a car or a tour guide to really see the island's hikes and viewpoints high on the mountains or north coast.
West and South Coast: Calheta, Ponta do Sol, and Ribeira Brava
Calheta area has great weather and is not too busy. Raposeira/Pico dos Bodes and Massapez offer coastal views, best at sunset. In Ribeira Brava, São Sebastião and Molinas provide vistas over the town and sea, good for morning or late afternoon. Câmara de Lobos has the Ilheú viewpoint and Teleférico do Rancho, with views of the bay and cliffs.
Travellers report that Cabo Girão Skywalk is not worth it; instead, go to the statue of Cristo Rei for the same view for free with fewer people and free parking.
Paul da Serra and Interior
Paul da Serra plateau has several viewpoints like Paul, Fonte do Bispo, and Risco, offering expansive views over the highlands. These are best in the late afternoon when the light is soft. Vereda do Fanal and Lagoa do Vento are also in this area, surrounded by laurel forest, often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Travellers report that the weather here is highly changeable, so bring a raincoat and wear appropriate gear. The roads are narrow and steep, so a smaller car is recommended.
Questions people ask
What is the best viewpoint in Madeira for sunrise?
Pico do Arieiro is popular for sunrise, but it gets crowded. Travellers report that Pico Ruivo is a better alternative for a less crowded sunrise experience.
Do I need a car to visit Madeira's viewpoints?
Many viewpoints are accessible by bus or tour, but a car gives you more flexibility. Travellers report that buses to touristic spots are not frequent or reliable enough, and a 30-minute drive can turn into an almost 2-hour bus ride.
What should I bring when visiting viewpoints?
Always take layers and a rain jacket because the weather is highly changeable, especially in the mountains. Wear shoes with good traction if you plan to hike.
Are there any free viewpoints in Madeira?
Yes, many viewpoints are free, such as Cristo Rei in Garajau and Pico dos Barcelos. Cabo Girão Skywalk charges a fee, but travellers report it's not worth it; go to Cristo Rei for a free similar view.
What is the best time of day to visit the north coast viewpoints?
The north coast often clears up in the afternoon, so viewpoints like Santana and Porto Moniz are best visited then. Check webcams to confirm weather conditions.
Compiled from OpenStreetMap, Wikivoyage and traveller reports. Confirm prices and opening hours locally. About
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