Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8)

Welcome to the easternmost point of Madeira — Ponta de São Lourenço — where the island dramatically ends, but the views just keep getting better! If you’re planning on exploring Madeira’s east coast, this is your must-see spot. And by must-see, I mean prepare to have your socks knocked off by the breathtaking, panoramic views of both the north and south sides of the island. Yes, you get both sides — it’s like a two-for-one special in natural beauty.

This rugged, volcanic peninsula stretches a full nine kilometers, which is quite a show-off move by nature. At the end, you’ll find the Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro (or Ilhéu da Metade for short, because who needs a long name?) and the Ilhéu do Farol — named for the lighthouse that probably has the best job in the world, just hanging out there with incredible views all day long.

Now, you might notice something unusual here — there are no trees. None. Zip. Instead, the landscape is covered in low, scrappy vegetation because this area is semi-arid and constantly battered by northern winds. So basically, it’s Madeira’s wild, wind-swept cousin that’s a little rough around the edges but still beautiful in its own way. If you were expecting lush forests, surprise! You’re in the wrong part of the island. But don’t worry, the raw, dramatic cliffs more than make up for it.

Ponta de São Lourenço is also a Partial Natural Reserve, which means it's not just a pretty face — it’s got serious environmental cred too. Rare plants? Check. Protected seabirds like the cagarra and alma-negra? Double check. And if you’re really lucky (and possibly equipped with binoculars), you might even catch a glimpse of the island’s most elusive resident: the monk seal, or as I like to call them, the VIPs of Madeira’s wildlife.

The best way to experience all this natural glory is by hiking the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8). It’s a six-kilometer round-trip trail that will make you feel like you’re trekking through another planet. Don’t worry, it’s totally worth the workout — think of it as nature’s gym with ocean views.

And before you go, just a heads-up: there’s a flat access fee of 1€ unless you’re a resident or a child under 12 (in which case, you get the VIP pass). For more details, check out the SIMplifica portal — because yes, even nature has gone digital these days.

So, if you're looking for a hike that offers jaw-dropping cliffs, rare wildlife, and the occasional sea breeze to remind you who’s boss, Ponta de São Lourenço is your destination. Just don’t forget your camera — and maybe hold onto your hat, because those northern winds don’t mess around!