Our top-5 viewpoints in Madeira
To be honest, if you see a brown sign with ‘Miradouro’ (viewpoint), it never disappoints in Madeira. Furthermore, there are so many that it’s impossible to view them all. Please see below our personal favourites.
5. Sunrise Pico Arieiro
Highlights: this is not really a viewpoint, but watching the sunrise with your family is something absolutely magical
Kids-proof factor: driving in the dark to the viewpoint and seeing the sun rising above the clouds is something magical. When we were there it was outside pretty cold before the sunrise, so we stayed in the car until the moment was there
Insider tip: dress in layers as early morning temperatures in the mountains can be really cold. You can park at the first parking lot (coordinates below) and view the sunrise from there.
📍 Location Pin: 32.729821089430104, -16.926621194381717
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: P3HF+V5 Curral das Freiras
4. Miradouro dos Balcões
Highlights: at the viewpoint you can see the main mountains of Madeira all together
Kids-proof factor: the hike is kids-friendly (about one and a half hour out and back), and at the viewpoint there are many birds to see
Insider tip: be early because parking spots are limited. Nice to combine with the Ribero Frio trout farm
📍 Location Pin: 32.735189746395, -16.885777806449312
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: P4P7+2F Santana
3. Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela
Highlights: amazing views over the impressive rock formations being constantly hit by the wild ocean waves. The entrance through a wooden stairs and tunnel is already an adventure on itself
Kids-proof factor: : it’s a pebble beach and not safe to swim, so better to stay on the observation platform with kids
Insider tip: there’s enough parking place and you can combine your visit with the natural pools of Porto Moniz
📍 Location Pin: 32.856199959251704, -17.1498284107345
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: VR4W+5R Ribeira da Janela
2. Miradouro de São Cristovão
Highlights: the views are absolutely stunning. You can enjoy the viewpoint on the terrace or at the restaurant
Kids-proof factor: it’s easy accessible with kids and perfect to combine with a lunch
Insider tip: parking can get very busy, so better to park a bit uphill
📍 Location Pin: 32.82711639371106, -16.972230087748212
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: R2GG+PR Boa Ventura
1. Espaço Infinito
Highlights: this spot we photographed for our homepage. It’s absolutely magical
Kids-proof factor: it’s easy to access with kids as it’s next to the road
Insider tip: combine your visit with a beach day in Seixal
📍 Location Pin: 32.8242307905732, -17.10373037796751
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: RVFW+J8 Seixal
