We’ve lost count of the incredible viewpoints in Madeira we’ve seen; there’s a lookout around every corner! While we had a few saved before our trip, we stumbled across some completely by chance. There’s no better feeling than driving the coastal roads and finding a silent cliffside with no one around or a golden bay glowing as the sun sets.
In this complete guide, we’re telling you about the five best viewpoints in Madeira. Each one had its own unique character, but they’re all hidden gems that reminded us how wild and beautiful this island really is.
1. Miradouro do Boqueirão (Porto da Cruz)
We almost skipped this viewpoint, but we’re so glad we didn’t! It was one of our biggest surprises on the trip. You can find Miradouro do Boqueirão tucked above the village of Porto da Cruz, a quiet spot and one of the best hidden viewpoints Madeira has to offer.
Getting there is all part of the adventure. We drove up a steep, narrow road (luckily, we only passed one other car) to the top, where you can find three or four parking spaces. For this reason, it’s best to go early so you don’t miss out. From there, we followed a short path through the bushes, which brought us to a ledge with a breathtaking view over the village, cliffs, and ocean.
Miradouro do Boqueirão showcases the truly raw nature of Madeira: just an open cliff edge and strong Atlantic winds. We truly felt like we were standing on the edge of the island.
2. PR17 Ridge Walk (Bica da Cana)
A PR17 was our favorite trail in Madeira, but it was one of the viewpoints along the way that really stole the show. After hiking through laurel forests, tunnels, and waterfalls for a few hours, we finally reached an open panoramic ridge. And wow, what a view! At 1,400 meters, we were straddling the line between two valleys, with views of São Vicente on one side and towering mountain peaks on the other.
While a clear day is ideal for the views, a little cloud and mist make this viewpoint even more jaw-dropping. Stand above the wisps of cloud, which part now and then, allowing you to catch a glimpse of what’s below; it’s an experience like no other! This was easily one of the most rewarding viewpoints in Madeira.
3. Miradouro de São Cristóvão (Boaventura)
Miradouro de São Cristóvão Miradouro de São Cristóvão is one of our favorite coastal viewpoints in Madeira, best enjoyed in combination with a visit to the winery in Boaventura. We made a spontaneous stop here after our wine tasting, and we’re so glad we did!
There’s a restaurant by the viewpoint, so we ordered a drink and sat on the terrace, watching the waves crashing below, which was absolutely magical. From here, we got a perfect view of Madeira’s rugged north coast, which featured steep green cliffs, expansive ocean, and golden hour sunlight bouncing off the water.
It’s not a sunset spot Madeira is particularly famous for, but we think it's very underrated! It’s relatively unknown, incredibly peaceful, and the perfect spot to unwind and drink in the views at the end of a day on the island.
4. Miradouro da Portela (Porto Santo)
During our trip to Madeira, we ventured to the beautiful island of Porto Santo, where we found more wonderful viewpoints. Our favorite was Miradouro da Portela, which we stumbled across at the end of the day, just as the sun was setting. Honestly, we think it’s one of the most peaceful sunset spots Madeira has to offer.
Right next to the viewpoint are three old windmills on the hillside, with charming red roofs and wooden frames. You can walk around the base; there are no fences, and almost no one is around. We loved the perspective of both the bay and the hills, with just the sound of the ocean breeze. On a clear evening, you can even spot Madeira on the horizon.
5. São Vicente Chapel
Don’t miss out on this underrated viewpoint in Madeira! To reach São Vicente Chapel, we had to climb over 200 stairs, but it was so worth it. Once we reached the top, we could admire the pretty white church, but we also had panoramic views across the expansive valley. Look out onto the northern coastline in the distance, where the Atlantic waves crash into the volcanic cliffs, with the charming village of São Vicente nestled in the background.
Tip: São Vicente Chapel is a beautiful sunrise viewpoint in Madeira. However, we recommend arriving once it’s light; at this time, it’s still peaceful but not too dark. Alternatively, you could come an hour or so before sunset for the softest light.
Why visit the miradouros da Madeira
The most unique thing about the miradouros da Madeira is that each one offers an entirely different perspective of the island. Not just that, but they all have a completely different atmosphere. Some take you up to high altitude with jaw-dropping drops and wild, untamed nature, whereas others offer you mindful moments with golden coastline views. Hidden off random curves in the roads, down secret clifftop trails, or on hard-to-reach mountain ridges, these are the best viewpoints Madeira has to offer. We truly believe they’re all worth stopping for!
