Miradouro do Cortado (Faial / Santana North Coast Viewpoint)

Quiet cliff-edge platform with broad views over Penha d’Águia and the rugged north shore

Miradouro do Cortado is a hidden gem perched above the dramatic coastline of Faial, at the entrance to Santana parish along the old ER103 road.

From the concrete terrace, you can see the jagged silhouette of Penha d’Águia, sweeping Atlantic cliffs, terraced coastal valleys, and — on clear days — the eastern tip of Madeira including Ponta de São Lourenço and even distant Porto Santo

This peaceful spot is rarely on tour bus routes and often deserted, making it ideal for reflection or Sunrise photography with nothing but the sound of surf in your ears.

Why it’s special

• Panoramic coastal views combining natural geology, terraced farmland, and wide ocean—without crowds.

• Totally free, minimal infrastructure—just benches and wide horizon vistas.

• Often overlooked by travelers, yet rated a top attraction in Santana with high reviews for serenity.

Insider tips

• There are no formal parking spots; you must stop either ~200 m before or after and walk uphill or downhill to the viewpoint

• Visit early morning or late afternoon: softer light, fewer cars, peaceful atmosphere.

• Location: https://share.google/0Y0nEbYGnADqu7f0a

• In winter, fog and mist often build below the platform—cloud layering adds drama to the scene.

How to get there

• https://share.google/0Y0nEbYGnADqu7f0a

• Drive along ER103, the coastal mountain route from Faial toward Santana.

• Look for the small paved viewing area on the coast side