All our tips for visiting the Miradouro do Cabouco in Madeira: access, parking, views, practical information.
Is a stop at the Miradouro de Cabouco worth it?
A superb viewpoint around a hairpin bend with the green valley of Faial and the peaks of the island’s center. It’s one of the greenest landscapes we’ve seen in Madeira, and that’s saying a lot.
If you’ve seen the magic of Pico do Arieiro and are heading back down to the north coast, take time out to admire the valley and the sharp peaks in the background. These are the peaks around Pico do Ariero!
In our opinion, it’s one of Madeira’s most beautiful vantage points.
Where is the viewpoint? Access
Please note that several maps on the Internet show several viewpoints with the same name, so we refer to this one:
- Road: ER103, one of Madeira’s most beautiful roads
- Between Pico do Arieio and the north coast
- From Faial = 15 min
- From Funchal = 50 min
- Option to stop in both directions
Here’s a map to help you find it:
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
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- + 120 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
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Parking
Easy parking.
Several spaces along the road for at least 3 cars.
However, it’s quite a popular route.
You’ll find it easier to stop off in the morning or during the off-season.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Best moment
It offers panoramic views to the south, east and north.
The sun can be a nuisance all morning.
You’ll find picnic tables here, a wonderful place to take a break and have lunch!
View description
At around 900 meters above sea level on the northern slopes of Madeira’s central mountain range, the panorama offers a striking contrast between craggy volcanic peaks and deep, lush valleys.
The summits
Looking south on a clear day, you have a breathtaking view of the island’s highest mountains: Pico do Arieiro, Pico das Torres and the needle-like Pico do Gato. They form a rugged backdrop that catches the morning light or drapes itself in an atmospheric haze.
Green valleys
Looking down, you’ll see the deep valleys leading to Faial. The landscape is covered in forest, which means it’s intensely green and dotted with terraced agricultural fields carved into the hillside.
Coastal views
To the north, you can see the sea. But the vegetation blocks the view.
Along the way, you can spot the emblematic Penha d’Águia (Eagle Rock) near Porto da Cruz.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
Nearest attractions
Plan your day by combining an attraction with this view. For example:
- the famous Pico do Arieiro and its magnificent views (or hike)
- the short Verada dos Balcoes walk with beautiful views from the platform
- the coastal village of Porto da Cruz
- Typical Santana houses
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
