Away from the tourist trail, the Miradouro do Pico da Atalaia is well worth a stop if you’re nearby. We enjoyed discovering this beautiful viewpoint from which we could observe typical elements of Madeira’s landscapes. It’s an ideal place to catch your breath or meditate after an intense day exploring the Pearl of the Atlantic.
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit the Miradouro do Pico da Atalaia
Is Pico da Atalaia worth a visit? Our opinion:
Yes, the Miradouro do Pico da Atalaia is well worth a visit! Especially if, like us, you love geology and Madeira’s volcanic rocks in particular! It’s a lovely, seldom-visited viewpoint that gives a glimpse of what the Flower Island has to offer: the ocean as far as the eye can see, a volcanic past, cliffside villages, breathtaking landscapes…
We think it’s a great place to watch the sunset.
Our favorite moments
We really enjoyed this short visit:
- the observation of this large and beautiful volcanic rock, whose dark color contrasts with the magnificent blue of the Madeiran ocean
- a glimpse of the Desertas Islands in the distance
- the palette of colors offered by all the elements visible from this off-the-beaten-track lookout
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How to get to Miradouro do Pico da Atalaia: how to get there
Where is Pico da Atalaia?
- In the south-east of Madeira, in the village of Caniço
- Driving time from Funchal: 20 min
- Driving time from Santa Cruz: 10 min
- Driving time from Porto da Cruz: 20 min
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- 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.
How to get there? Access road
The best way to reach the Miradouro do Pico da Atalaia is by car. If you arrive via the magnificent ER101 panoramic road that circles the island, follow the signs for Caniço. The road to the viewpoint is easy.
If you’d like to take public transport, the “East. Portinho/Atalaia“is located not far from the viewpoint. It is served by the No. 2 bus line between Portinho and Funchal.
The trail is located at the foot of the orange-colored buildings:
Parking
There is no on-site parking. The easiest way is to park along the Traverssa da Atalaia road. Once parked, you’ll need to walk about 5min to reach the trail.
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Useful tips: duration, difficulties…
Best time to visit
It seems to us that the best time to visit Pico da Atalaia is on a sunny, windless day. You’ll enjoy an unobstructed view and be able to appreciate the different vistas offered by the watchtower in complete safety.
We think it’s also a great spot to enjoy a sunset over the ocean.
Length of visit and main difficulties
A visit to the Miradouro do Pico da Atalaia doesn’t take very long. We recommend you allow between 15 and 30 minutes on site. Unless you want to enjoy it for longer.
The walk to the lookout takes just 5min, but is on a track that can be slippery, especially if it’s been raining. We recommend you wear good shoes, as the end of the path is a steep climb.
The space for admiring the view is somewhat narrow. We therefore advise you not to go there with children. The promontory at the top of the cliff has no facilities or protection. The main difficulty once at the summit is to remain vigilant near the cliffs.
The track leading to the viewpoint seems complicated for people with reduced mobility.
Catering, Toilets and Facilities
We didn’t see any restaurants, toilets or other facilities on the Pico da Atalaia site. Remember to bring water and snacks if you need them!
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
Volcanic heritage
From the top of the viewpoint, which is actually a volcanic cone, you can see (once again) Madeira’s volcanic origins in the beautiful black rock formed thousands of years ago. Its irregular, vertical shape gave us the impression of still being in motion. As if she’d just risen from the bottom of the ocean. Lovers of geology are sure to appreciate this visit, which takes you back to the island’s origins.
Overview of the village of Caniço
In the distance, you’ll see the charming little village of Caniço. If you haven’t already done so, we recommend a short visit. Perched on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Looking at this landscape, we loved the contrasting colors: the yellow, almost beige, of the sunburnt grasses. The piercing blue of the Atlantic, the green of the hills, the white of the foam and the orange of the roofs.
Breathtaking ocean views and glimpses of the Desertas Islands
If the weather is clear enough, you should be able to see the Desertas Islands in the distance. This archipelago of 3 unsettled islands is a protected reserve where nature reigns supreme. You can discover them on a boat trip!
Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the blue expanse of the ocean stretching as far as the eye can see, right in front of you. It’s a common sight on the Isle of Flowers, but we never tired of it during our stay.
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Other nearby attractions
You can combine your visit to Pico da Atalaia with these nearby attractions:
- Observe the Ponta Garajau ( Madeira’s major volcanic peak) from the sea by kayak or catamaran (15-minute drive)
- Visit Funchal, Madeira’s capital (20min drive).
We loved its rich heritage, lush green landscapes and traditional cuisine, making it an ideal place to get away from it all. You’ll be charmed by the legendary hospitality of the locals in this city full of surprises and contrasts. - Go to Machico (20 min drive) to enjoy its beautiful golden sandy beach, take a tour of the town and visit the miradouros.
- Visit the village of Caniçal (20 min drive), home to one of Madeira’s most beautiful hikes.
- Discover Ribeira Brava and its relaxed atmosphere (35min drive).
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
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Getting around Madeira
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