Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro: how to see the sun rise above the clouds

Pico do Arieiro is Madeira’s third-highest peak, and you can drive to a car park just below the top. On a good morning you stand above a sea of clouds as the sun comes up behind the peaks of the central massif. It is one of the best things to do on the island.

When is sunrise?

Madeira keeps the same clock as Lisbon and London. Roughly:

• December and January: around 8:00 to 8:10
• March: around 7:00 before the clocks change, about 7:45 after
• June: around 7:05
• September: around 7:30 to 7:45

Check the exact time for your date in your phone’s weather app. Aim to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before sunrise: the sky starts glowing well before the sun appears.

How long does it take to get there?

From Funchal the drive takes 40 to 50 minutes on a winding mountain road. Allow extra time in the dark. There is no bus at this hour, so drive, take a taxi or join a sunrise tour.

How to tell if it will be clear

The best sunrises happen when there is a layer of low cloud below the peak and clear sky above. When the whole mountain is in cloud, you see nothing. Signs:

• Check the webcams the evening before and early in the morning.
• Look at the mountain forecast and any weather warnings.
• Stable, settled weather gives the best chances; stormy weather the worst.

How cold is it?

Cold. Before dawn it is often 0 to 8 °C at the top, with wind, and frost is possible in winter. Bring a warm jacket, a hat, gloves and a blanket or extra layer while you wait.

Parking and crowds

The summit car park is small and fills up on clear mornings, especially in summer. Arrive early. Walk the short paved path to the viewpoints; keep behind the barriers.

Make a morning of it

After sunrise, walk the first part of the PR1 trail towards Pico Ruivo (a booking is required), or drive on to Ribeiro Frio for a coffee and the short Balcões walk.