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.
Want to plan your viewpoint stops by area (plus parking, short walks and beaches)? Use our Interactive Madeira Map.
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.
Considering the East side route? Our East Tour starts from €40 and includes viewpoints like Pico do Areeiro, Balcões, Guindaste and Ponta do Rosto. See options in Island Tours.
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.
Going West close to sunset? Check Live Webcams first — clouds can roll in fast on the cliffs.
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.
Want to do Cabo Girão + Fanal + Porto Moniz + Véu da Noiva in one day? Our West Tour starts from €40 — see Island Tours.
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.
If you’re pairing this with Porto Moniz and Fanal, the West Tour route is a very easy way to do it without stress. See Island Tours.
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.
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.
Not sure how to connect these stops into a smooth day? Our Travel Guide helps with itineraries, timing and local tips.
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.
If you want to reach Pico Ruivo with a guide, we have full-day guided walks from €45. See details here: Guided Hiking.
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.
Want to explore comfortably (especially for sunrise/sunset stops)? See Rent a Car options — full cover available.
Interactive Madeira Map (All Spots)
Discover Madeira like never before with our interactive map. From breathtaking viewpoints and hikes to hidden villages, waterfalls, and must-visit restaurants—everything you need in one place.
