Nobody likes to get up early on holiday without having a good reason to do so. In this article, we selected some of the best places to see the sunrise in Madeira – they will be worth the early awakening!

Ponta de São Lourenço

When we reach this point of the island, this early in the morning, we are usually alone with the nature and sea.

In this part of the island, you can find incredible views. So, it is worth walking up to the viewpoints nearby. Miradouro do Rosto, or Baía d ‘Abra are some of the favourite locations. Another good option is Prainha (a natural sand beach). Other alternatives include walking along the trail from Ponta de São Lourenço to Cais do Sardinha and, start the day with a swim in the sea. Feel the energy!


Miradouro do Guindaste, Faial

This viewpoint’s geography seems to be tailor-made to “sunrise hunters”. It offers a phenomenal panoramic view over the sea and the north coast of the island, from Faial to Ponta de São Lourenço. The road ends right next to the belvedere, so you’ll get easy access to unforgettable views. It is also a great spot for photography lovers, no argument.


Ribeira da Janela

When seen from the beach, Ribeira da Janela’s islets look as if they’re rising from the sea to greet us. This place has a very particular beauty. Here, you will get surrounded by the wave’s sound, the mountain’s multiple shades of green and the shimmering sea (it shines brighter as the sun rises). It’s spectacular!


Miradouro das Achadas Gramacho / Quinta do Furão

To access this viewpoint, you must first enter Quinta do Furão, in Santana. There’s a restaurant on the top of Achadas do Gramacho Cliff, whose balcony offers excellent sea views. From here you can also see the Viúva Islet, part of Rocha do Navio Nature Reserve. An excellent place to have breakfast, with privileged views.


Pico do Areeiro

Watching the sunrise above the clouds in Pico do Areeiro, with the sea on the horizon, is a lifetime experience.

There are not many places in the world where one can wake up in the comfort of one’s bed, and in about 45 minutes drive, reach 1818 meters of altitude. This can happen if you stay in Funchal – so, seize the opportunity. Get your coat on and enjoy one of Madeira’s most incredible views.


Pico Ruivo

“Stairway to heaven” or “head in the clouds” are some of the most commonly used hashtags when it comes to this location. It has one of the most challenging and incredible trails of Madeira, as it reaches 1862 meters of altitude. We recommend that you take this route, accompanied by a mountain guide.


Bica da Cana

Bica da Cana viewpoint is located in Canhas parish village of Ponta do Sol. Bica da Cana viewpoint it’s an underrated but amazing viewpoint with views of Pico Ruivo, as well as good visibility all the way to Pico Areeiro. This is a great sunrise spot due to its height of 1,560m above sea-level, from where you can enjoy a mystical atmosphere as the sea of clouds roll over the mountains below. Despite the mountains surrounding the ”sea of clouds” are the focal point and slowly pours down into the lower valleys towards the east, creating an incredible waterfall of clouds. The sun finally crept over the peaks in the distance and began to light up the scene.


Encumeada viewpoint

The viewpoint of Encumeada is at the top of the parish of Serra d’Água, between two of the deepest valleys of the island, the Ribeira Brava (south coast) and São Vicente (on the north coast). It is located at 1007 m altitude, as you should know as always, sunrise and sunsets in Encumeada are something else and will take your photos to the next level.

While you are going up the roads offer superb landscapes over the north and south coasts of the island. 

Duarte Coelho

The truth is that in Madeira you can find several places to watch this nature’s show. One thing is sure, the sea will always keep you company. Is there a better way to start the day?

Source: Visitmadeira

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