top 10 photography spots Madeira
Madeira is an island of microclimates and countless unique photo locations. It is recommended to rent a car. From the capital of the island (Funchal), every corner is a maximum of one hour's drive. And, especially for the photographers, be prepared to chase the sunrise every morning to avoid the crowds.
1. Pico Ruivo
The highest point of Madeira (1862) is also the highlight of the island. The view is magical. Around the mountain top you see deep green valleys and often low-hanging clouds. Sunrise or sunset are the best times to visit.
In combination with the 6-hour PR1 hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (and back), Pico Ruivo is a true classic. Less time on your hands? Park your car at the Achada do Teixeira and walk just 2.5 kilometers to the top. If you want to make sure the peaks are cloud free, you can have a look on Pico Arieiro's webcam online.
2. Fanal Forestry station
Fanal Forestry Station is one of the last laurel forests in the world and creates a mystical experience in dense fog. The sprawling forest is covered with moss and cows roam around. In contrast to Pico Ruivo, you DO want clouds here. So keep an eye on the mountain tops!
3. Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
From Madeira's two wettest locations to one of the driest; the eastern peninsula at Caniçal. In addition to the popular PR8 hike, you have many viewpoints of the high red-colored cliffs here. I specifically recommend Maradouro de Ponta do Rosto because you drive on a recognizable winding road on the way to this location. To avoid crowds, I recommend going at sunrise.
4. A ponte velha
On the way from Faial to Ribeiro Frio you will come across a special bridge, literally translated to "the old bridge". This is a unique location, especially for drone enthusiasts. You can park your car just before the bridge on the left.
5. Miradouro do Guindaste
Park the car a few meters from a fantastic viewpoint, at Maridouro do Guindaste you can! You have a view on two sides, on one hand from two glass platforms and on the other from the edge of the cliffs. With many layers and a touch of sea mist in the background, I highly recommended this spot!
6. 25 Fontes waterfalls (PR6)
The 25 Fontes hike takes you past the Risco Waterfall and 25 Fontes Fall. The Risco waterfall is the most famous and frequently visited, the 25 fontes waterfall is a bit more hidden. A large part of the hike leads you along Levadas (irrigation canals) and smaller waterfalls. The hike is also very popular, so get on the road in time!
7. St. George Ruins Coastal Walk
A unique location that is not shown on Google Maps, do I have your attention? Park your car at St. George Ruins and turn left at the ruins for a short coastal walk. Pass the warning sign and walk for about 10-15 minutes to a wooden bridge along the cliffs. With a telephoto lens, this gives a special result. Please be careful; the bridge is old, so watch your step.
8. Seixal & Ponta do Sol
Two photogenic villages on the coast: Seixal and Ponta do Sol. The northern village of Seixal is known for its surfable waves and the special shape. It seems as if the village has flowed out of the mountains. On the southern side, the coastal town of Ponta do Sol is a unique sight.
9. Miradouro Lombo do Mouro / Cascata do Lombo do Mouro
One of the most beautiful highways in Madeira is Lombo do Mouro. The route leads you along a layered mountain side that (if the right season) can be completely covered with flowers. If it has rained, a waterfall also flows over the road.
10. Farol da Ponta do Pargo
Closing off with a lighthouse; Farol da Ponta do Pargo. The lighthouse stands on a part of the island that consists exclusively of high cliffs. You can look both ways from the lighthouse.
A few minutes from the lighthouse you can also visit Miradouro da Garganta Funda. This waterfall is relatively large and flows into the ocean, provided it rained of course!
That’s 10 of the best places to go! Enjoy your trip!
Cheers, Mike
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My name is Mike Tesselaar, in short MiTe. I’m a photographer from The Netherlands with a heart for traveling and adventuring.
I write blogs about photo- and videography, travel, freelancing and personal related stories. Hope you’ll find inspiration and feel welcome to stick around a little longer!
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