This is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in Madeira! 😍⛰️🥾

Located on the eastern tip of the island, you’ll find this 7.4 km out-and-back trail that winds through stunning volcanic landscapes alongside the Atlantic Ocean 🌊

Trail information:

• Official name: PR8 – Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

• Distance: 7.4 km return / 4.6 miles return

• Elevation: Roughly 412 m / 1351 ft. elevation gain

• Length: 3-4 hours return (including lunch and a dip in the ocean)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Fee: €4.5 per person (pay here)

How to get there:

• 🚗 Drive – 35 minutes from Funchal with parking near the trailhead

  • We recommend booking your car rental from Madeira Airport for the best price

• 🚌 Bus 113 – leaves from Funchal (€6.10 return, takes 1-1.5 hours each way)

• 🌂 Guided tour or transfer – You can book a guided tour with a guide or a transfer service, so you don't have to deal with parking or public transport

This hike can get very busy, so we recommend going early for sunrise or later in the afternoon when the trail is quieter (this is what we prefer) 🙌🏼

There’s a small café midway and even a beach near the end where you can swim, so don’t forget your swimsuit and towel 👙🤿

With zero shade on the trail, we also recommend bringing:

• 🧴 Sunscreen

• 💧 Plenty of water

• 🧢 A cap

• 📸 Camera (for the photos)

• 💶 Cash (for the toilets + the bus if you're taking public transport)

⚠️ There’s a €4.5 entry fee to do this hike, which you need to pay before you start the hike. You can do that here.