INorth Coast Highlights – Wild Madeira Road Trip
Madeira’s north coast is the island at its most dramatic – towering cliffs, black sand beaches, waterfalls crashing into the ocean, and viewpoints where you won’t believe what you’re seeing. This route strings together my favorite stops, from famous postcard spots like Veu da Noiva to hidden gems like the ruins of São Jorge.
It’s an easy full-day trip: start early, follow the old coastal road (ER101), and give yourself time to stop whenever a waterfall crosses the road (trust me, there are plenty). Here are the must-sees along the way:
Key Stops
Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
Sunrise hotspot on the east peninsula. Best light on the cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço. Quiet compared to the main PR8 trailhead.
Companhia dos Engenhos do Norte (Rum Distillery, Porto da Cruz)
Historic sugarcane rum distillery. You can smell the molasses from the street – tours and tastings available. Peak season: spring cane harvest (April/May).
Miradouro do Porto da Cruz
Quick photo stop with views over the surf bay and Penha d’Águia. Perfect for a poncha or coffee break in town.
Miradouro do Curtado
Overlook above Faial with sweeping views toward Penha d’Águia and Porto da Cruz. Quiet, little-known viewpoint perfect for sunrise.
Santana Cable Car (Rocha do Navio)
Drops steeply to a remote fajã (coastal farmland) below the cliffs. Option to hike down on the old fisherman’s path instead of taking the cable car.
Ruínas de São Jorge
Abandoned lime factory right on the cliffs – ivy-covered walls, rusting chimneys, and insane ocean views. Great photography stop.
Miradouro da Beira da Quinta
Panoramic viewpoint near Santana with views over vineyards, coast, and cliffs. Underrated and rarely crowded.
Miradouro de São Cristovão
Restaurant + viewpoint combo in Boaventura with endless ocean views. Great lunch stop for fish or espetada.
São Vicente Church & Village
Picturesque old church and cobbled streets surrounded by vineyards. Stop for coffee or bolo do caco at a local café.
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
Famous roadside waterfall viewpoint. Best after rain when the “bride’s veil” is flowing strong into the Atlantic.
Seixal Beach
Black volcanic sand with towering green cliffs. The most photogenic beach on Madeira – sunrise is unbeatable.
Piscinas Naturais do Seixal
Quiet natural lava pools right next to Seixal Beach. Less crowded than Porto Moniz; perfect for a relaxed swim.
Ribeira da Janela
Sea stacks you reach via a tunnel through the cliff – amazing sunrise or golden hour photos.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Iconic lava pools at Madeira’s northwest tip. Crowded midday; magical at sunset when the light hits the cliffs.
