Endless Views of The North

Madeira is famous for its stunning viewpoints, and this day trip is all about soaking in those breathtaking sights. Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive north from Ribeira Brava, winding through Serra de Agua en route to Sao Vicente. The first stop is the ‘Capella de Nossa Senhora’. This chapel, dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima, boasts a massive bell and is perched atop the mountain peak known as Pico da Cova. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to a spectacular panoramic view of the village of Sao Vicente.

As you continue your journey, you’ll reach the northern coast, where the road meanders past charming mountain villages leading you to the ‘Ruínas de São Jorge’. These ruins are steeped in Madeira’s history, dating back to the island’s early days of colonization and sugarcane farming in the 15th century. Don’t miss the stunning landscape at Calhau de São Jorge, a hidden gem of a beach, embraced by lush green mountains and the ocean’s waves.

Your next stop along the north coast is ‘Miradouro do Guindaste’. This viewpoint, featuring two suspended glass platforms, offers an awe-inspiring view of the natural beauty surrounding you. From here, you can gaze upon the pebble beach of Foz da Ribeira do Faial and the unique geological formation next to it, known for its prismatic or columnar divide created by ancient lava flows.

Then there’s the local treat: Madeira Rum, often referred to as “sugarcane spirit,” which is the key ingredient in the traditional drink known as “poncha.” In Porto da Cruz, a visit to the North Mills Distillery will let you witness the entire rum-making process, from the extraction of fresh sugarcane juice to the crafting of this world-famous spirit.

The interior of Madeira is characterized by its stunning mountainous terrain. The Vereda dos Balcões hike introduces you to the native and endemic species of the Laurissilva forest. At the trail’s end, a captivating viewpoint awaits you. On clear days, you can spot the central mountain range of the island, featuring the remarkable Pico do Areeiro, Pico das Torres, and Pico Ruivo. Here, you’ll also find numerous Madeira finches that might just come to eat from your hand.

After your hike, the itinerary takes you to Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira, towering at 1,818 meters. The views from here are nothing short of incredible—clouds drift over the magnificent rock formations, creating a scene that’s almost impossible to put into words. If the sky is clear, you might even see the south coast of Madeira, the Curral das Freiras, and the distant island of Porto Santo.