Explore Secret Places on Madeira Island | The Hidden Gems You Must Visit in 2024

Explore Secret Places on Madeira Island | The Hidden Gems You Must Visit in 2024

Madeira Island, known for its stunning natural beauty and unique landscapes, is home to many secret places that are truly hidden gems waiting to be found. 

These places offer a unique opportunity to explore the island from a lesser-known perspective, ideal for those looking for authentic and memorable experiences.

Find out in this article 10 secret places that promise to surprise you!

 

Maiata Beach

Located in Porto da Cruz, Maiata Beach is a quiet haven away from the big crowds and a paradise for water sports enthusiasts such as surfing and windsurfing. 

With fascinating natural scenery, this beach has a beauty that is hard to forget.

 

Location: Porto da Cruz, Machico.

Tips and information: Bear in mind that, despite being freely accessible, this beach has no active surveillance or support infrastructures.

 

 

Banana Route in Madalena do Mar

This route, located on the south coast of the island, runs along 2 km of banana plantations, allowing you to admire different species and learn about the cultural reality of farming one of the main fruits grown in Madeira.

Take the opportunity to enjoy the unique scenery between the mountains and the sea.

 

Location: Madalena do Mar, Ponta do Sol.

Tips and information: It’s an easy walk, lasting around 30 minutes, ideal for families.

 

 

Bica da Cana Viewpoint

Bica da Cana viewpoint, located in Canhas, is one of the highest points on Madeira Island.

Easily accessible, it offers an imposing view of the island’s valleys and mountains without requiring long hikes.

It is undoubtedly one of the most photographed places on the island, thanks to its breathtaking panoramic view.

 

Location: Canhas, Ponta do Sol

Tips and information: As well as taking your camera or cell phone to capture unique moments, we strongly recommend taking a jacket, as this viewpoint can be cold due to its altitude.

 

 

Chão das Feiteiras

Chão das Feiteiras, located in Ribeiro Frio, is a flat and very green plateau famous for its lush landscapes and nature trails.

It is an ideal spot for picnics, hiking, and camping, offering visitors a peaceful refuge amongst the lush nature of Madeira Island.

In addition, the many sheep found in the area can surprise and delight those who stroll through the area.

 

Location: Ribeiro Frio, Machico.

Tips and information: Chão das Feiteiras has several areas equipped for picnics, including sets of tables and benches, fountains, fireplaces, and spaces to set up your stoves.

 

 

Fajã do Cabo Girão Beach

Fajã do Cabo Girão Beach, located in Câmara de Lobos, stands out for its natural beauty and clean, crystal-clear waters.

Access to this beach is challenging and is limited to two options: by cable car, which may not be advisable for those with vertigo, or by boat.

 

Location: Quinta Grande, Câmara de Lobos.

Tips and information: The Rancho Cable Car operates every day at the following times: Sunday/Holidays – 09:00 am to 07:00 pm; Monday/Wednesday/Friday/Saturday – 08:00 am to 07:00 pm; Tuesday/Thursday – 08:00 am to 12:30 pm and 02:00 pm to 07:00 pm.

 

 

Raposeira Viewpoint • Madeira Island Special Sunset (Secret Places)

Strategically located in Paul do Mar, the Raposeira viewpoint offers an ideal panoramic view of Madeira’s western coastline.

It is a popular spot for locals and visitors wishing to watch the sunset.

This viewpoint offers views over Paul do Mar, Prazeres, Jardim do Mar, and Fajã da Ovelha.

 

Location: Paul do Mar, Calheta.

Tips and information: The Raposeira viewpoint offers one of the most privileged views for watching the sunset on Madeira Island. We recommend taking a blanket and snacks to enjoy the moment in the best way possible.

 

 

Ninho da Manta Viewpoint

Ninho da Manta viewpoint, located at the start of the path linking Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Madeira’s central mountain range.

The landscape is dominated by rock formations that often rise above the clouds.

It is also in this area that the Freira da Madeira (Pterodroma Madeira) nests, an endemic species that is very significant to us and has deeply inspired our new branding.

 

Location: Vereda do Areeiro, Funchal.

Tips and information: The Ninho da Manta viewpoint is easily accessible and offers stunning views, especially at dawn when the mist envelops the mountains and creates a magical and mysterious setting. After enjoying this magnificent view, challenge yourself to walk the trail between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience.

 

 

Garganta Funda Waterfall

The Garganta Funda waterfall, located in Ponta do Pargo, is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking on Madeira Island.

With a majestic waterfall approximately 140 meters high, this waterfall reveals nature in all its splendor, leaving all those who contemplate it amazed by the imposing scenery.

 

 Location: Ponta do Pargo, Calheta.

Tips and information: To see this waterfall, it is necessary to walk 600 meters. We advise you to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. 

 

 

Véu da Noiva Viewpoint

Véu da Noiva Waterfall, located in Seixal, is one of the most iconic and photographed waterfalls on Madeira Island. 

This impressive waterfall, which rushes down the hillside towards the sea, got its name from its height and the abundant flow of water that resembles the romantic veil of a wedding dress, creating a stunning backdrop in contrast to the lush vegetation around it.

This waterfall can be seen and photographed from the Véu da Noiva viewpoint.

 

Location: Seixal, Porto Moniz.

Tips and information: When planning your visit to the Véu da Noiva viewpoint, it is advisable to consider the local weather conditions. 

The waterfall offers varied experiences throughout the year, reflected in the volume of water, which can result in spectacular photos and an even more memorable experience, especially during periods of higher flow.

For those wishing to discover the beauty of the western part of the island of Madeira, we have prepared a full-day excursion. Don’t miss this opportunity and explore with us: Madeira | Journey to the West Side: Porto Moniz

 

 

Fajã da Quebrada Nova • Achadas da Cruz Pebble Beach

Located in Porto Moniz, the Fajã da Quebrada Nova stands out for its natural beauty between the imposing mountains and the vibrant sea of the north.

The Achadas da Cruz Cable Car is the main attraction in this area, connecting Achadas da Cruz to the Fajã da Quebrada Nova.

Arriving at the Fajã, visitors can relax in this fantastic secret spot on the quiet pebble beach. However, the real adventure lies in the cable car ride down, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the lush green of the surrounding mountains.

 

Location: Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz.

Tips and information: The cable car descent is not recommended for people with acrophobia (fear of heights). If this is your case, you can walk to Calhau das Achadas da Cruz via Vereda do Calhau or Vereda da Ladeira. The cable car is open daily from 08:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 01:00 pm to 06:00 pm (hours may vary in summer).

 

 

These are just some secret places you should visit on Madeira Island.

Each one offers a unique and memorable experience, perfect for exploring beyond the traditional tourist spots and discovering the true essence of this island paradise.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure and let yourself be enchanted by Madeira Island’s hidden gems!

 

If you want to visit one of these wonderful secret places, please contact us for reservations or more information.

 

Click here to explore our Pinterest: Pin – Madeira Island • Secret Places

 

Cover Image ©: André Carvalho