Itinerary: Madeira’s Ultimate Sunrise Chasing Guide
This is a collection of my absolute favorite sunrise spots on Madeira – from the famous mountain peaks you’ve seen in every photo to hidden ridges and coastal viewpoints almost nobody visits.
I’ve spent the last five years chasing sunrises here – sometimes hiking two hours in the dark with headlamps, other times driving straight to a cliffside lookout before anyone else arrives. This list mixes both: accessible spots for an easy first light and adventurous hikes for unforgettable mornings.
Pack layers (it’s cold up high even in summer), bring coffee or breakfast for the summit, and check the webcams for cloud inversions – nothing beats watching the sun come up over a literal sea of clouds.
Beispiel-Spots im Itinerary
Pico do Arieiro – Classic drive-up sunrise with clouds spilling over the ridge, and gateway to the Stairway to Heaven section of PR1.
Pico Ruivo do Paul – Secret western peak with 360° views over Paul da Serra and the central mountains – total solitude compared to Areeiro.
Pico Encumeada Alta – Short detour off PR1.2, usually missed by hikers rushing to Ruivo – killer sunrise over both coasts.
Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8) – Wild east peninsula with rugged volcanic cliffs and ocean on both sides – surreal sunrise if you can handle the wind.
Ponta do Rosto – Easy drive-in sunrise with full view of the São Lourenço peninsula – perfect for first morning on the island.
Guindaste Viewpoint – Wooden walkway over dramatic north coast cliffs; sun rises right out of the Atlantic here.
Bica da Cana – Above Paul da Serra plateau, famous for cloud waterfalls – insane sunrise spot after a stormy night.
Miradouro do Curtado – Overlook above Faial with quiet vibes and huge views of Penha d’Águia – rarely visited at dawn.
Pico Grande (Caminho Real da Encumeada) – Rugged sunrise hike with dual views: Curral das Freiras below and the highest peaks glowing in morning light.
Pro Tips für Sunrise Chaser
Start times: Always plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before sunrise; blue hour is even better for photos.
Gear: Headlamp, warm layers, windbreaker, tripod if shooting.
Forecast: Use Windy + Madeira webcams to check cloud base (best inversions at 1200–1600 m).
Best combos: Sunrise hike + morning poncha :D (just saying...)
