9 Incredible viewpoints on Madeira, Portugal's island paradise

1 | PICO DO ARIEIRO VIEWPOINT

A visit to Madeira wouldn’t be complete without watching the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro.

Set in the heart of Madeira’s Central Mountain Massif, is Pico do Arieiro (1,818m), one of the island’s highest peaks, and home to Madeira’s most iconic viewpoint.

While the main viewpoint of Miradouro Juncal is teeming with fellow travellers, the area itself is relatively extensive, which makes it easy to find a quiet spot to watch a stunning sunrise unfold.

Pico do Arieiro is also the starting point of the famous PR1 hike. If you’re keen to do the PR1 hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, make sure you check out my guide for inspiration, and hiking advice.

2 | MIRADOURO PONTA DO ROSTO

I have to admit, Miradouro Ponta do Rosto is without doubt up there with my favourite viewpoints on Madeira.

Situated on the far most Eastern corner of Madeira, this viewpoint provides the most spectacular views of the volcanic landscape of the unique São Lourenço Peninsula.

What makes Miradouro Ponta do Rosto one of the best viewpoints on Madeira, is that the main viewpoint is located directly after the parking lot, making it extremely easy to get to.

If you’re in for some more adventure, walk around the navigation station and go to the left until you reach the pilar atop the towering cliff. Since this isn’t an official path, make sure you stay safe by keeping your distance from the edge of the cliff.

Also, given Miradouro Ponta do Rosto is located on the São Lourenço Peninsula, I highly recommend combining this viewpoint with the PR8 hike on Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço.

3 | MIRADOURO BICA DA CANA

Perhaps the most underrated viewpoint on Madeira, the Bica da Cana viewpoint welcomes its visitors with stunning views of Pico Ruivo (1,862m) and Pico do Arieiro (1818m).

But it isn’t just the views of the surrounding mountains that make Miradouro Bica da Cana one of the best viewpoints on the island.

No, its most striking feature is that the summit of Bica da Cana (1,560m) is situated slightly lower than the clouds, meaning you will literally stand above the clouds.

Trust me, it’s a phenomenal experience to witness a sea of clouds roll over the mountains below, while the sun slowly rises above the highest peaks of Madeira.

4 | MIRADOURO LOMBO DO MOURO

Located within only 5 minutes of Bica da Cana is Miradouro Lombo do Mouro, a striking viewpoint that is relatively unknown, yet very much worthy of your time.

Miradouro Lombo do Mouro is situated directly on the side of the road and provides stunning views of one of the most scenic roads on Madeira, as well as the surrounding Encumeada valley.

Given its location, this viewpoint is easily combined with the Bica da Cana viewpoint.

5 | MIRADOURO DO GUINDASTE | CRANE VIEWPOINT

Perched on the Northeastern coastline of Madeira is Miradouro Do Guindaste, an otherworldly viewpoint that is without question one of my favourite viewpoints on the island.

This viewpoint – also known as Crane viewpoint – provides a unique plateau, with striking views of the rough Atlantic, as well as the rugged mountain cliffs of Porto da Cruz in the distance.

While Miradouro Do Guindaste is beautiful at every time of day, I advise visiting either at sunrise or sunset, especially if it’s your goal to nail the perfect photo for your Instagram feed.

6 | VEREDA DOS BALCÕES VIEWPOINT

One of the most popular viewpoints on Madeira, and certainly worthy of your occasion is Vereda Dos Balcões, a stunning viewpoint in the heart of the picturesque Satana municipality.

While it takes only 10 minutes to hike to the viewpoint, it still feels as though it’s completely hidden in the lush mountain ranges of Madeira.

Upon arrival, you’ll notice a small balcony that offers panoramic views of the valley of the Ribeira da Metade, Faial parish and the Central Mountains of Madeira island.

This viewpoint is also considered a bird-watching paradise, with plenty of indigenous and endemic species. If you’re lucky, you may witness a Madeira firecrest, chaffinch, buzzard or a very rare Madeira Laurel Pigeon.

7 | MIRADOURO DO VÉU DA NOIVA

Imagine a waterfall gushing from towering cliffs straight into the ocean, the Véu da Noiva waterfall is exactly that – and for that reason, an unmissable stop for anyone travelling to Madeira.

Perched between Seixal and São Vicente on Madeira’s breathtaking North coast is Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, an easy-to-get-to viewpoint that is undisputedly the most surreal place I’ve uncovered on Madeira.

There is a parking lot right next to the viewpoint, as well as a small cafe to grab some beverages or a snack. However, since this viewpoint is super accessible, it does get super busy during the day.

Also, If you’re into serious photography, I advise visiting at sunrise, or in the late afternoon, as the harsh light and reflection on the water might stand in your way of pulling off the perfect shot.

8 | MIRADOURO PONTA DA LADEIRA

Found on Madeira’s less popular North-western coast, Miradouro Ponta da Ladeira is probably the best viewpoint from where to experience a sunset on Madeira.

Dramatic cliffs, the infinite Atlantic ocean, and the last light of the day illuminating the sky cause for an epic scene, making it the perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Add to that, that you’re most likely alone at this viewpoint, and you’re in for a unique, off the beaten path adventure on Madeira.

However, it is good to know that once you’ve reached the parking lot, you need to head to the left-hand side and take a couple of steps down a dirt pathway, before getting to the actual viewpoint of Ponta da Ladeira.

Though it may sound a little more challenging, it’s absolutely worth the extra effort.

WHERE TO STAY ON MADEIRA

Since Madeira is relatively compact, I highly recommend anyone to base themselves in Funchal, the island’s lively capital city.

Funchal is an incredible city and houses plenty of excellent accommodation options, while it’s also packed with history and culture, as well as trendy restaurants and cafes at just about every corner.

To help you find the right accommodation, I’ve listed three of my favourite options below, one of which is marked with a plus – this is the place where I stayed.

+ Vila Baleira | This was my base for the whole of my trip, and if you’re seeking comfort without spending your entire budget straight away, Vila Baleira will be perfect for you too. Located within the popular Lido area, this hotel offers spacious rooms, comfortable beds, a large rooftop terrace with a swimming pool. They also have a tasty breakfast spread, excellent wifi throughout the entire property, and a secured parking lot right under the property.

Hotel Cajú | Set within the heart of Funchal, Hotel Cajú is a great place to stay, with stylish double rooms, friendly staff, and a small yet excellent in-house fitness centre. All bookings come with exceptional breakfast too. One small downside though, they don’t have private parking.

NEXT – Savoy Signature | This budget-friendly hotel in the centre of Funchal has spacious modern-style rooms with comfortable double beds and a brilliant private bathroom with a rain shower. They also have an incredible rooftop swimming pool with amazing sea views. Double rooms at only €50,- per night make this place one of the best picks in Funchal.

Alternatively, search for accommodation in Funchal on booking.com.