Madeira is an island of incredible natural beauty, and what better way to experience it than by watching a breathtaking sunset? With its rugged cliffs, lush vegetation, and towering peaks, Madeira offers some of the most spectacular sunset viewpoints in the world. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a romantic spot to watch the sun go down, there's something for everyone on this island.
Here's our list of the top 15 sunset viewpoints in Madeira, each one offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Pico do Arieiro -
Sunset Pico do Arieiro: https://goo.gl/maps/FATx44RKajB1Mq3s5
One of the highest peaks on the island, Pico do Arieiro offers a panoramic view of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky turns a brilliant orange and red, painting the clouds and the sea in a vibrant hue. To get there, you can drive up the winding mountain road.
Pico Ruivo
Sunset Pico Ruivo: https://goo.gl/maps/bVpBf2e4WqZoqN4Q8 (Achada do Teixeira)
The highest peak on the island, Pico Ruivo offers a 360-degree view of the island and the Atlantic Ocean.
If you're looking for a sunset experience that will leave you breathless, Pico Ruivo is the place for you. At an altitude of 1862 meters above sea level, Pico Ruivo offers a panoramic view of the island's mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean.
To get to the viewpoint, the easiest route is from Achada do Teixeira, which is only a 45 minute hike to the peak. It's worth noting that the hike can be challenging, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a headlamp for the descent. The hike offers beautiful views throughout the day, but the real magic happens as the sun sets..
Cabo Girão -
Sunset Cabo Girão: https://goo.gl/maps/qabu1cMSSbGBhCED6
Cabo Girão is one of the most popular sunset viewpoints on the island, and for good reason. This dramatic cliff offers a 580-meter drop straight down to the ocean, providing a thrilling and unique perspective on the sunset. You can take a tour on a Catamaran and watch the sunset while looking for dolphins and whales, or you can drive up the winding road and admire the sunset from the viewpoint.
Porto Moniz -
Sunset Porto Moniz: https://goo.gl/maps/7g7YLLVfs3QxdAdx6
Porto Moniz is a small village on the northwest coast of the island, known for its natural swimming pools carved out of volcanic rock. As the sun sets, the pools turn a vibrant shade of orange and red, creating a stunning contrast with the dark blue of the ocean. It's a great spot for a relaxing evening stroll and for a swim in the natural pools.
Praia Formosa -
Sunset Praia Formosa: https://goo.gl/maps/Mau9rbNXcRWBgZLJ9
Praia Formosa is a beautiful golden-sand beach on the south coast of the island, surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation. As the sun sets, the sky turns a brilliant orange and red, creating a stunning contrast with the blue of the ocean and the green of the cliffs. It's a great spot for a romantic walk on the beach and for a refreshing swim in the sea.
Ribeira de Janela -
Sunset Ribeira de Janela: https://goo.gl/maps/XVgcFEJvV5NkBHj67
This viewpoint offers a stunning view of the Ribeira de Janela valley and the Atlantic Ocean. The sun sets behind the ocean, creating a beautiful contrast between the orange and red sky and the lush vegetation of the valley.
Ponta de São Lourenço -
Ponta de São Lourenço: https://goo.gl/maps/KSSNxd8RtgMk8txC9
This viewpoint offers a stunning view of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean. The sun sets behind the ocean, creating a beautiful contrast between the orange and red sky and the rugged cliffs of the peninsula. To get there, you can take a short hike from the nearby village of Caniçal, or drive up the winding mountain road.
Ponta de São Lourenço Viewpoint: https://goo.gl/maps/Sy2oMXpJzsZbf772A (Ponta do Rosto)
Ponta do Pargo -
Sunset Ponta do Pargo: https://goo.gl/maps/BmeAy9jxZAVfUNJJ8 (lighthouse)
To get to the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse viewpoint, you can either drive or take a bus from the nearby towns of Calheta or Paul do Mar. Once you arrive, you can park at the lighthouse parking lot, or you can take a short hike along the coastline to the viewpoint. The hike is a bit strenuous, but the view is worth it. The trail is well marked and easy to follow.
When you arrive at the viewpoint, you will be greeted with an incredible panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean. As the sun sets, the sky turns into a brilliant orange and red, painting the clouds and the sea in a vibrant hue. The lighthouse, which was built in 1907, stands tall and proud on the cliff-edge, adding to the picturesque scenery.
One of the best things about the Ponta do Pargo viewpoint is that it's not as crowded as some of the other popular sunset spots on the island. So, you can enjoy the sunset in peace and tranquility.
The viewpoint is also a great spot for photography, as the lighthouse and the rugged coastline make for a great contrast against the colorful sky. Remember to bring your camera and a tripod to capture the perfect shot.
Ninho da Manta
The "Homeoffice Madeira" Picnic viewpoint: Located on the way from Pico Arieiro, this viewpoint offers a stunning view of the island's rugged cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. The name "Ninho da Manta" translates to "Manta's Nest" and it's easy to see why, as the viewpoint is shaped like a giant nest perched on the edge of a cliff.
Ninho da Manta viewpoint: https://goo.gl/maps/BcpuecKFaQ76v3bm6
To reach the viewpoint, one must take a short hike from the Pico Arieiro trail. The hike is relatively easy, but the last part is a bit steep, so proper footwear is recommended.
The viewpoint itself is located on a rocky outcropping and offers a panoramic view of the island and the ocean. As the sun sets, the sky turns a brilliant orange and red, painting the clouds and the sea in a vibrant hue. The view is truly breathtaking and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Madeira.
Once you're done admiring the sunset, you can return to Pico Arieiro and enjoy a well-deserved dinner in one of the nearby restaurants.
(Go to: https://goo.gl/maps/GBXDdUCD1orbF9d38)
The Ninho da Manta viewpoint is definitely a highlight of any visit to Madeira and should not be missed.
Ninho da Manta - Parking for Sunset Ninho da Manta: https://goo.gl/maps/d3TH83jobEVdVMXv5
Pico do Arieiro - Trail Sunset
The Pico do Arieiro hike is one of the most popular trails on the island, and for good reason. Not only does it offer a challenging hike through some of Madeira's most beautiful landscapes, but it also provides the opportunity to catch a stunning sunset. The trail to Ninho da Manta viewpoint and Rija viewpoint, in particular, are ideal spots to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
As you make your way along the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the island's rugged mountains and lush vegetation. As the sun begins to set, the sky turns a brilliant orange and red, painting the clouds and the sea in a vibrant hue. It's a truly unforgettable experience.
If you're a photography enthusiast, this is the perfect spot to capture the beauty of Madeira in all its glory. Whether you're hiking up Pico do Arieiro for the sunrise or sunset, the trail offers plenty of opportunities to snap some amazing photos.
If you're planning to hike Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, it's highly recommended to take a break and admire the sunset when you return to Pico do Arieiro. The views are truly spectacular and it's a great way to end your hike.
Pico do Facho
The Pico do Facho viewpoint is located in the east of Madeira Island and offers a stunning view of the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. This viewpoint is situated near the Madeira International Airport, making it a great option for those who have a layover or are looking for an easy and accessible sunset spot.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/czt5fNaJB9mnRQEr5
Hike to Pico do Facho (25 min): https://goo.gl/maps/ChVhaqEgoBorq2QK7
The viewpoint is located at the top of a steep hill, but the climb is well worth it as the views from the top are truly breathtaking. As the sun sets, the sky turns a brilliant orange and red, casting a warm glow over the rugged cliffs and the sparkling sea below.
The Pico do Facho viewpoint is also a great spot for airplane enthusiasts, as the airport is located nearby, providing an opportunity to watch planes taking off and landing while enjoying the sunset.
Additionally, from this viewpoint one can also see the Deserted Islands (Ilhas Desertas) in the distance, adding an extra element of natural beauty to the already stunning sunset views.
Overall, the Pico do Facho viewpoint is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience a breathtaking sunset on Madeira Island.
Fanal and Paul da Serra
Paul da Serra / Fanal - Sunset Paul da Serra / Fanal: https://goo.gl/maps/hSxZTg3E2KwNHKXw7
Fanal is the magical forest located in the heart of Paul da Serra, the largest plateau of Madeira. The place is known for its lush laurel forest, which is a protected natural reserve. Fanal offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, including the rolling hills of Paul da Serra. As the sun sets, the sky turns a brilliant orange and red, casting a warm glow over the dense forest below.
To reach the Fanal viewpoint, you can park your car at the designated parking area in Fanal and take a short hike through the forest. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by the fragrant scent of the laurel trees and the soothing sound of birdsong.
In addition to the beautiful sunset, Fanal is also a great place to explore the natural beauty of Madeira. The area is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts, who come to admire the diverse flora and fauna of the island. There are several levadas (irrigation channels) that run through the forest, offering an easy and peaceful way to explore the area.
Overall, Fanal is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Madeira, offering a unique and unforgettable experience of the island's natural beauty, culture and history.
Paul da Serra is a beautiful plateau located in the center of the island, offering a panoramic view of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. The sunset here is particularly spectacular, with the sun sinking slowly behind the clouds, painting the sky in a beautiful orange
Ponta da Ladeira Sunset viewpoint
Location Ponta da Ladeira: https://goo.gl/maps/EYMmX8hftmWWQK4JA
The Ponta da Ladeira viewpoint offers a truly unique and incredible sunset experience. Located on the northwest tip of Madeira Island, this coastal spot is just a short drive from the town of Porto Moniz. The viewpoint is accessible via a small dirt path, which leads to a small plateau overlooking the ocean. The path can be a bit rocky and the handrail is a bit shaky, so be sure to take care while walking.
The view from the viewpoint is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. As the sun sets, the sky turns into a brilliant orange and red, painting the clouds and the sea in a vibrant hue. From the viewpoint, you can also see the small coastal village of Fajã da Quebrada, which is an isolated farming region accessible by cable car from Achadas da Cruz.
In addition to the incredible sunset views, Ponta da Ladeira is also a great spot for a picnic or a romantic evening stroll. The peaceful surroundings and the secluded location make it a perfect spot for those looking for a quiet and intimate experience.
One of the best parts of the Ponta da Ladeira viewpoint is the lack of crowds. Even during peak season, it is not a popular spot among tourists, making it a great option for those looking for a more secluded experience.
Homeoffice Madeira "After-Work-Sunsets"
Madeira is not only a beautiful island with incredible natural landscapes, but it's also a great place to work remotely. With fast internet and a great climate, it's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and focus on your work while enjoying the island's natural beauty.
Figo and Kiki, the founders of Madeira_hiking and Homeoffice Madeira, offer Hiking Weeks and the Homeoffice Madeiras, where you can combine remote work with after-work sunset hikes to the best viewpoints on the island. The combination of remote work and the stunning sunsets on Madeira is truly unbeatable.
Imagine starting your day with a sunrise hike up Pico do Arieiro, working remotely throughout the day, and ending it with a sunset hike to Ponta da Ladeira. The possibilities are endless and truly make for an unforgettable experience.
So why not make the most of this opportunity and book your stay in a Home Office Madeira?
You do NOT work remotely? With Figo and Kiki's Hiking Weeks, you'll be able to explore the island and all its beauty while also being able to focus on your work and achieving your goals. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity and book your stay in Madeira today!