Viewpoints in Madeira aren’t just scenic stops — they’re quiet invitations to slow down and look closer. Some reveal entire coastlines, others appear suddenly at the edge of a cliff or at the end of a winding road. Whether it’s sunrise above a sea of clouds or a lone bench overlooking the Atlantic, these places offer some of the island’s most powerful, perspective-shifting moments.
Pico do Areeiro Viewpoint
At 1,818 meters, Pico do Areeiro is one of Madeira’s highest peaks, offering dramatic mountain views, often above the clouds. It serves as the starting point for the famous PR1 hike to Pico Ruivo. On clear days, you can spot Porto Santo and the Desertas Islands in the distance, making it one of the island’s most breathtaking viewpoints.
Later, dive into the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz or enjoy a seaside lunch with the sound of crashing waves. Stroll barefoot on Seixal’s black sand beach, admire the stunning Véu da Noiva waterfall, and catch a glimpse of the hidden Água d’Alto falls near São Vicente. The day ends with breathtaking views from the Cabo Girão skywalk, perched 580 meters above the sea.
Boa Morte Viewpoint
A newer addition to the island’s long list of scenic spots, Miradouro da Boa Morte is quietly becoming a must-see on the western coast. Tucked away near Ponta do Pargo, it offers a raw, open view over the cliffs and ocean — especially magical at sunset.
To get there, a short 5-minute walk leads you across wild terrain to a simple platform where the land drops away and the horizon seems endless. Peaceful, dramatic, and well worth the detour.
Cabo Girão Skywalk
Suspended 580 meters above the ocean, Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The glass-floored platform provides a thrilling experience with a direct view of the ocean and the cultivated “fajãs” below—small plots of farmland only accessible by boat or cable car. This is a must-visit for those seeking adrenaline and breathtaking landscapes.
Eira do Serrado Viewpoint
At 1,095 metres above sea level, Eira do Serrado offers a sweeping view over Curral das Freiras, a secluded village tucked into a dramatic mountain basin. Surrounded by Madeira’s central massif, the viewpoint reveals the raw power of nature that shaped the island’s interior.
Accessible via a short path from the nearby hotel, it’s a place to pause, breathe, and take in one of the most striking inland views Madeira has to offer — both grand and deeply quiet.
Véu da Noiva Viewpoint
This iconic viewpoint showcases the striking “Bride’s Veil” waterfall cascading directly into the sea. The waterfall gets its name from the way the water spreads out as it falls, resembling a bridal veil. Previously, a walking trail led to the base of the falls, but landslides now make the viewpoint the best spot to admire this natural wonder.
Later, dive into the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz or enjoy a seaside lunch with the sound of crashing waves. Stroll barefoot on Seixal’s black sand beach, admire the stunning Véu da Noiva waterfall, and catch a glimpse of the hidden Água d’Alto falls near São Vicente. The day ends with breathtaking views from the Cabo Girão skywalk, perched 580 meters above the sea.
Balcões Viewpoint
This balcony-style viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Ribeiro Frio valley. It is easily reached via a short, flat 1.5 km walk along the Vereda dos Balcões. Known for its birdwatching opportunities, visitors can often spot the Madeira firecrest and other endemic species, sometimes even feeding from their hands.
Boca dos Namorados
Boca dos Namorados viewpoint offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view over Curral das Freiras, set against a backdrop of towering mountains. It is a peaceful spot, particularly at sunrise or sunset, when the play of light enhances the dramatic scenery. The winding mountain roads leading to this viewpoint add to the adventure.
Later, dive into the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz or enjoy a seaside lunch with the sound of crashing waves. Stroll barefoot on Seixal’s black sand beach, admire the stunning Véu da Noiva waterfall, and catch a glimpse of the hidden Água d’Alto falls near São Vicente. The day ends with breathtaking views from the Cabo Girão skywalk, perched 580 meters above the sea.
Portela Viewpoint
This viewpoint offers a breathtaking view over Porto da Cruz and the impressive Penha d’Águia rock formation. Located in a biodiversity-rich area, it’s a fantastic spot for nature lovers. After taking in the views, visitors can explore Porto da Cruz, known for its traditional rum distillery and coastal charm.
Rocha do Navio Viewpoint
Rocha do Navio Viewpoint, on the northern coast near Santana, offers dramatic views over cliffs, ocean, and a tiny stretch of cultivated land far below. It’s a quiet, wild corner of the island where nature takes the lead.
For those feeling curious, there’s a cable car that takes you down to the base — a scenic descent to the old farming area by the sea. The round trip costs €8, and it’s a unique way to experience Madeira’s raw, vertical landscape from both above and below.
Ponta do Rosto Viewpoint
Located at the island’s easternmost point, this viewpoint offers a stunning contrast between the rugged, arid cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço and the deep blue Atlantic. Due to its location, it is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunrise, with the colors of dawn reflecting over the ocean.
Pico Ruivo Viewpoint
At 1,862 meters, Pico Ruivo is the highest point in Madeira and offers sweeping 360º views of the entire island. Reaching it requires hiking — there’s no road access. The most popular route is via the PR1.2 trail from Achada do Teixeira, a shorter but steep climb. The longer and more dramatic PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro is currently partially closed. Sunrise here is unforgettable, especially when the island floats above a sea of clouds.
Neves Viewpoint
A quiet favourite among locals, Miradouro das Neves sits above Funchal and offers wide, uninterrupted views over the bay. It’s one of the best spots to end the day — especially at sunset, when the city slowly lights up below and the sky fades into deep shades of orange and blue.
There’s something peaceful about watching it all from here, preferably with a drink in hand and nowhere else to be. Just the view, the breeze, and the slow rhythm of the island.
Cristo Rei Viewpoint
Overlooking the Garajau Nature Reserve, this viewpoint is home to a towering Christ the King statue, similar to the one in Rio de Janeiro. The area provides fantastic coastal views and is also a great place for spotting seabirds or watching divers explore the waters below.
Pico do Facho Viewpoint
Standing above Machico Valley, this viewpoint offers a commanding view over the surrounding landscape. Historically, warning fires were lit here to signal approaching pirate ships. Today, it remains a fantastic vantage point to admire the eastern side of Madeira.
São Cristovão Viewpoint
One of our favourite viewpoints on the island, São Cristóvão Viewpoint offers a picture-perfect setting overlooking Madeira’s dramatic north coast. From here, you can see the green mountains meeting the deep Atlantic, creating a view that feels like a living postcard.
What makes it even better? There’s a restaurant right next to the viewpoint — so you can enjoy a meal with one of the most unforgettable backdrops on the island.
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