Scenic Drives
of Madeira
Coastal roads, mountain passes, and day routes for every weather
East Peaks Sunrise Route
day tourSunrise at Pico Arieiro followed by PR1.2 to Pico Ruivo (or PR8 if PR1 closed), returning via Balcões viewpoint and Ribeiro Frio. High-altitude morning route.
East Peninsula & Coast
day tourPR8 hike on São Lourenço peninsula followed by Prainha Beach and Machico town exploration. Full-sun exposed route.
East Valleys & Rum Trail
day tourPorto da Cruz rum distillery, Penha d'Águia viewpoint (Portela), Vereda do Larano coastal hike, Faial village. Local character route.
Fanal Forest Mystical Route
day tourPR13 Fanal forest walk or drive-through with ancient til trees and fog, followed by north coast descent to Seixal or Porto Moniz. Best in misty conditions.
Funchal Urban Discovery
day tourOld town (Rua Santa Catarina painted doors), Sé Cathedral, market, Monte Palace Garden, optional toboggan ride, waterfront promenade.
North Coast ER101 Drive
scenic driveScenic coastal drive São Vicente to Porto Moniz via ER101 with waterfalls through tunnels, Seixal beach/pools, viewpoints, ending at Porto Moniz natural pools.
Rabaçal Waterfalls Route
day tourPR6 (25 Fontes) and PR6.1 (Risco) levada walks in Laurissilva forest with waterfall destinations. Popular early-morning route.
Santana Cultural & North Valleys
day tourTraditional Santana houses, PR9 Caldeirão Verde or PR18 Levada do Rei, north coast viewpoints (São Cristóvão, Guindaste). Green valley route.
South Villages & Cabo Girão
day tourCâmara de Lobos fishing village, Cabo Girão skywalk, Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava with option to add Curral das Freiras/Eira do Serrado viewpoint.
West Sunny Coast & Pools
day tourWest coast drive through Calheta, Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar to Porto Moniz pools via Fanal forest (weather permitting). Adaptable sunny fallback route.