We begin our journey with Madeira's most famous vantage points, which are true icons of the island and a must-see for any tourist.

Cabo Girão Skywalk is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Madeira. Located on one of the highest cliffs in Europe (580 meters), it offers unforgettable views of the ocean and surrounding countryside. A glass viewing platform adds extra excitement, allowing you to literally stand over the precipice. Admission to the platform costs 2 euros (as of October 2024), a small price to pay for such an impressive experience. Cabo Girão is easily accessible and well equipped to accommodate tourists, with automated ticket counters and a souvenir store.

Another must-see is Miradouro da Eira do Serrado, offering breathtaking views of the Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras). This spot allows you to admire the majestic mountains surrounding the valley and the village hidden in its heart. The viewpoint is easily accessible by car, with parking right at the entrance to the observation platform. There is also a hotel and restaurant in the area, where you can relax and enjoy local delicacies, including products made from edible chestnuts.

Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, located on the eastern end of the island, offers a completely different perspective. This spot allows you to admire the rugged beauty of Madeira's coastline, with high cliffs and the rough ocean at their feet. This point is less crowded than Cabo Girão, allowing for a more peaceful enjoyment of the views. However, it is worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear and protect yourself from the wind, which can be quite strong here.

Each of these viewpoints has its own unique character. Cabo Girão offers the most exciting experience with its glass platform, but can be crowded in high season. Eira do Serrado provides a more secluded atmosphere and the opportunity to combine admiring the views with tasting local specialties. Ponta do Rosto, on the other hand, is ideal for those looking for more wild and unspoiled nature. All of these places are accessible by car, making them easy to explore, but they vary in their level of tourist development - from the fully commercial Cabo Girão to the more natural Ponta do Rosto.

Continuing our tour of Madeira's greatest viewpoints, we will discover lesser-known but equally fascinating places that offer unforgettable panoramas of the island.

Miradouros do Paredão is a vantage point that impresses with its simplicity and majestic view of the Valley of the Nuns. It takes just 5 minutes to reach the terrace from the nearby parking lot, making it accessible to everyone. The view from here is comparable to that of Eira do Serrado, but the place is much less crowded, allowing for quiet contemplation of the landscape. This is an ideal place for those who appreciate peace and quiet while admiring nature.

Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, located on the route from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, offers one of the most spectacular viewing experiences on the island. This point is part of the famous trail connecting Madeira's two highest peaks and requires a bit more effort to reach. However, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the mountainous landscape and the opportunity to see the famous 'instagram' staircase. It's the perfect place for trekkers and photography enthusiasts.

Miradouro do Pico do Facho, located above Machico, offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city, the airport and the eastern part of the island. It's a great place to watch planes take off and land, adding an additional attraction to the already impressive views. The point is easily accessible by car, and there is parking and a small café nearby.

Boca do Risco is a viewpoint that requires a bit more effort, but offers unforgettable views of Madeira's northern coastline. The route to this point leads along the levada and requires good physical fitness. However, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the steep cliffs of the northern coast.

When comparing these points, it's worth noting that each offers something unique. Miradouros do Paredão is the most accessible and ideal for families with children or those with limited mobility. Miradouro do Ninho da Manta requires the most effort, but offers the most spectacular mountain views. Miradouro do Pico do Facho is the perfect compromise between easy accessibility and impressive views, additionally offering the unique attraction of aircraft sightings. Boca do Risco is for more active hikers who want to combine trekking with admiring the views.

It's worth noting that all of these sites are free of charge, which is an added bonus compared to some of the island's more commercial viewpoints. It's best to visit them in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.

To conclude our tour of Madeira's greatest viewpoints, we'll present three lesser-known but equally fascinating spots that will allow you to discover the true treasures of Madeira's landscapes.

Miradouro da Boa Morte, located on a cliff, offers one of the most spectacular views of the ocean and Madeira's coastline. This spot is especially magical at sunrise and sunset, when the colors of the sky and water intensify to create an amazing spectacle. The viewpoint is easily accessible by car, with parking at a nearby church. An added bonus is free restrooms, which is not standard at all viewpoints. Miradouro da Boa Morte is the perfect place to relax and meditate, away from the hustle and bustle of tourist centers.

Miradouro do Cabo Aéreo is another viewpoint that impresses with its location and panorama. It offers a beautiful view of the cliffs of Madeira's northern coastline. The point is well landscaped, with an observation deck surrounded by lush vegetation. It's an ideal place to take souvenir photos, especially since it's often less crowded than the more famous viewpoints. It's worth visiting this spot at different times of day to see how the landscape changes depending on the lighting.

Miradouro da Beira da Quinta is a real gem among Madeira's viewpoints. It offers a panoramic view of Madeira's northeastern coastline, including the picturesque Arco de São Jorge. The point is particularly impressive in the late afternoon, when the sunlight lends warm colors to the landscape. If you're lucky, you can even see Ponta Delgada from here. It is worth planning a visit to this spot during a tour of the eastern or northeastern part of the island.

Comparing the three viewpoints, each offers something unique. Miradouro da Boa Morte stands out for its clifftop location and spectacular sunset views. Miradouro do Cabo Aéreo impresses with its lush vegetation and views of the northern cliffs. Miradouro da Beira da Quinta offers the widest panoramic view of the northeast coast.

All of these points are free and easily accessible by car, which is a big advantage. Miradouro da Boa Morte and Miradouro da Beira da Quinta offer better amenities in the form of parking and restrooms, while Miradouro do Cabo Aéreo boasts the most well-maintained surroundings.

It's worth noting that these lesser-known viewpoints often offer a more authentic experience of Madeira's landscapes, without the crowds of tourists. They are ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and wanting to experience the true beauty of Madeira.

Whichever of these viewpoints you choose, each will provide you with an unforgettable experience and allow you to appreciate the diversity and beauty of Madeira's landscapes. Remember to always respect nature and follow safety rules, especially in places close to cliffs. Exploring these hidden treasures of Madeira will surely become one of the most beautiful memories of your trip to this unique island.