Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8): Madeira’s wild eastern tip
The coastal walk across Madeira’s bare eastern peninsula: route, distance and time, booking, the lack of shade, wind, the bus from Funchal and the best time of day.
At its eastern end Madeira looks like a different island. The green forests disappear and a long, narrow peninsula of red, ochre and black volcanic rock stretches into the ocean, with cliffs dropping to the sea on both sides. The walk across it is one of the most dramatic on the island.
The facts
- Trail: PR8, Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
- Start: the car park at the end of the road beyond Caniçal (Baía d’Abra)
- Distance: about 3 km one way to the Casa do Sardinha visitor centre, plus an optional climb to the Pico do Furado viewpoint
- Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours return
- Difficulty: moderate. Uneven paths, steps and some short exposed sections with railings
- Booking: time slot and fee required for non-residents. See trail fees and booking
The route
The path follows the spine of the peninsula, dipping and climbing with views of the north coast cliffs on one side and calm bays on the other. It ends at the Casa do Sardinha, a small ranger station with picnic tables and palm trees in a sheltered valley. From there a steep path climbs Pico do Furado for a view over the last islets to the lighthouse.
The peninsula is a nature reserve with rare plants and seabirds. Stay on the path.
When to go
- Morning is best: cooler, softer light and fewer people. In summer, midday on the peninsula is hot and exposed.
- Wind: it is often very windy, sometimes strong enough to make you stop. Avoid it in strong wind warnings.
- It is a good choice when the mountains are in cloud, because the east is often dry and clear.
Getting there
By car, it is about 35 minutes from Funchal via the expressway to Caniçal. The car park fills up from mid-morning. SAM buses run from Funchal to Caniçal and the end of the road at Baía d’Abra on some routes; check the timetable.
Swim afterwards
Prainha, a small black-sand beach near Caniçal, is a good place to cool down. In summer you can also swim from the jetty at Casa do Sardinha.
What to bring
At least a litre and a half of water each, a hat, sunscreen, a windproof layer and shoes with grip. There is no shade and no water on the way.