Madeira by car: eastern madeira tour
Touring: Eastern Madeira
This Eastern Madeira car tour offers a fantastic mix of experiences: from the cultural heritage of Camacha's wickerwork and Machico's historical significance to the natural wonders of Ponta de São Lourenço's rugged cliffs and Santo da Serra's lush gardens. The route balances coastal and inland scenery, giving you a comprehensive taste of the region's diversity. Highlights like Pico do Facho's panoramic views and the serene atmosphere of Santa Cruz provide perfect moments to pause and appreciate Madeira's unique blend of history, nature, and tranquility.
Starting Point: Funchal
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, is your starting point. Before you set off, you might want to grab a coffee or a pastel de nata at a local café in the city center—Funchal's bustling atmosphere, with its mix of historical charm and modern energy, is a great way to kick off the day. The city is known for its colorful markets, like Mercado dos Lavradores, and stunning views of the Atlantic, but we'll save deeper exploration for the end of the tour when you return.
Total Distance: Approximately 70-80 km round trip, depending on exact routes and detours.
Estimated Driving Time (without stops): Around 2 hours total.
Recommended Duration: 6-8 hours, including stops for sightseeing, photos, and a meal.
Leg 1: Funchal to Camacha (Approx. 8 km, 15-20 minutes)
Route: From Funchal, take the road northeast towards Camacha. The road winds through lush greenery, offering glimpses of terraced hillsides typical of Madeira's landscape.
Stop: Camacha
Camacha is a charming village renowned for its wickerwork tradition.
- Highlight: Visit a local wickerwork factory, such as the O Relógio workshop, where you can see artisans crafting baskets, furniture, and decorative items using traditional methods. This craft has been a cornerstone of Camacha's economy for over a century, and the skill involved is impressive—watching the intricate weaving process gives you a real appreciation for the craftsmanship.
- Commentary: Camacha's wickerwork isn't just a tourist souvenir; it's a living tradition that reflects the resourcefulness of Madeirans, using local willow to create practical yet beautiful items. The village itself is quaint, with a small square (Largo da Achada) where you can stretch your legs and maybe grab a poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink made with rum, honey, and lemon.
- Time to Spend: 30-45 minutes.
Leg 2: Camacha to Santo da Serra (Approx. 10 km, 20 minutes)
Route: Continue on the ER102 towards Santo da Serra. The road takes you through rolling hills, with occasional views of the ocean in the distance.
Stop: Santo da Serra (Santo António da Serra)
Santo da Serra, split between the municipalities of Machico and Santa Cruz, is a peaceful parish known for its greenery and cooler climate due to its elevation (around 700 meters above sea level).
- Highlight 1: Quinta do Santo da Serra (formerly Blandy Park). This park is a serene spot with well-maintained gardens, featuring both exotic and indigenous plants like camellias, as well as animals such as deer, ducks, and peacocks. It's a great place for a short stroll, especially if you're traveling with family.
- Highlight 2: Santo da Serra Golf Course. If you're a golf enthusiast, this course, host to the Madeira Open, offers stunning views over the ocean and surrounding mountains. Even if you don't play, the scenery is worth a quick stop—on clear days, you can see as far as Ponta de São Lourenço.
- Highlight 3: Local Market (weekends only). If you're visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, the roadside market stalls along the main road are a treat. Locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and homemade goods at very reasonable prices.
- Commentary: Santo da Serra feels like a step back in time, with its quiet rural charm and fresh mountain air. The park and market reflect the area's agricultural roots, while the golf course adds a touch of modern luxury. It's a perfect spot to slow down and soak in Madeira's natural beauty, away from the busier tourist hubs.
- Time to Spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Leg 3: Santo da Serra to Machico (Approx. 10 km, 20 minutes)
Route: Take the ER207 down towards Machico. The descent offers scenic views of the Machico Valley as you approach the coast.
Stop: Machico
Machico, Madeira's second-largest town, holds historical significance as the first place where Portuguese explorers landed in 1419. It's set in a crescent-shaped bay with a mix of historical charm and coastal beauty.
- Highlight 1: Machico Beach. This artificial golden sand beach (one of only two on the island) is perfect for a quick walk along the seafront promenade. The beach is framed by green terraced slopes, making it a picturesque spot for photos.
- Highlight 2: Historical Center. Stroll through Machico's old quarter, with its narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. Visit the Igreja Matriz de Machico, a 15th-century church founded by Tristão Vaz Teixeira's wife, which showcases Gothic and Manueline architectural elements.
- Highlight 3: Archaeological Site. Near the center, you can visit a small museum where 17th-century structures, including stables and a reservoir, were excavated. Artifacts like ceramics, sugar molds, and a 16th-century ivory seal offer a glimpse into colonial life on Madeira.
- Commentary: Machico's historical significance is palpable—standing on the beach, you can imagine the moment Portuguese sailors first set foot on the island. The blend of history and natural beauty, with the beach and surrounding valley, makes it a well-rounded stop. It's also a great spot to grab lunch; try a local restaurant for traditional dishes like "posta mirandesa" (a hearty beef dish) or fresh seafood.
- Time to Spend: 1-1.5 hours (including lunch).
Leg 4: Machico to Ponta de São Lourenço (Approx. 12 km, 20 minutes)
Route: Head east on the ER109 towards Caniçal, then follow signs to Ponta de São Lourenço. The road takes you through the drier, more arid eastern part of the island.
Stop: Ponta de São Lourenço
Ponta de São Lourenço is the easternmost point of Madeira, a dramatic peninsula known for its rugged cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and unique volcanic landscapes.
- Highlight 1: Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto. This viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the north coast's cliffs and, on clear days, the island of Porto Santo in the distance. The contrast between the jagged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean is breathtaking.
- Highlight 2: Short Hike (Optional). The Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail (PR8) is one of Madeira's most scenic walks, leading to viewpoints like Ponta do Furado. If you're up for a short hike (30-45 minutes round trip), you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the peninsula's silhouette and the Ilhas Desertas on the horizon. Note that the terrain can be rocky, so wear sturdy shoes.
- Highlight 3: Prainha do Caniçal. If you prefer to relax, this small black sand beach near the start of the peninsula is a quiet spot to dip your toes in the water.
- Commentary: Ponta de São Lourenço feels like a different world compared to the lush greenery of central Madeira. Its stark, windswept beauty is a reminder of the island's volcanic origins, and the panoramic views are some of the best you'll find on the island. The area is also a nature reserve, so keep an eye out for unique flora and seabirds. If you're not up for hiking, the viewpoint alone is worth the drive.
- Time to Spend: 1-1.5 hours (longer if hiking).
Leg 5: Ponta de São Lourenço to Pico do Facho (Approx. 10 km, 15 minutes)
Route: Drive back towards Machico on the ER109, then follow signs to Pico do Facho, located just above the town at around 330 meters altitude.
Stop: Pico do Facho
Pico do Facho is a viewpoint offering expansive views over the Machico Valley and beyond.
- Highlight: The panoramic view. From this vantage point, you can see the entire Machico Valley, the town and beach below, the central peaks of Madeira, and the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula to the east. On clear days, you might even spot Porto Santo. It's also a great spot to watch planes taking off and landing at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport nearby.
- Commentary: Historically, Pico do Facho was a strategic lookout point where fires (fachos) were lit to warn of approaching pirate ships—a practical use of the island's geography for defense. Today, it's a serene spot to take in the landscape, with the added thrill of potentially spotting marine life (whale and dolphin spotters sometimes use this vantage point). The wind can be strong here, so hold onto your hat!
- Time to Spend: 20-30 minutes.
Leg 6: Pico do Facho to Santa Cruz (Approx. 8 km, 15 minutes)
Route: Descend back to Machico, then take the VR1 west towards Santa Cruz. The road runs parallel to the coast, offering glimpses of the ocean.
Stop: Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a coastal town known for its relaxed vibe and proximity to Madeira's airport.
- Highlight 1: Santa Cruz Promenade. Take a short walk along the seafront, where you'll find a pebble beach and natural pools. The promenade is lined with palm trees and offers a calm atmosphere to unwind.
- Highlight 2: Igreja de São Salvador. This 16th-century church in the town center features beautiful azulejo tiles and a Manueline portal, reflecting Madeira's rich architectural history.
- Commentary: Santa Cruz feels like a quieter, less touristy version of Funchal, with a focus on local life. The natural pools are a highlight, offering a refreshing dip if you're visiting in warmer months. The town's proximity to the airport means you might see planes flying low overhead, which adds a bit of excitement. It's a nice spot to relax before heading back to Funchal.
- Time to Spend: 30-45 minutes.
Leg 7: Santa Cruz to Lazareto viewpoint / Funchal (Approx. 15 km, 20 minutes)
Route: Continue on the VR1 west, which takes you directly back to Funchal. The drive offers coastal views as you approach the capital.
End: Lazareto viewpoint and Funchal
Back in Funchal, you can wrap up your day with a leisurely evening. If you have time, visit the Madeira Botanical Garden for a dose of tropical flora, or head to the old town (Zona Velha) for dinner at a restaurant serving local specialties like espetada (grilled beef skewers) or black scabbardfish with banana.
- Final Commentary: Funchal is the perfect place to end your tour, as it ties together the cultural and culinary threads of your Eastern Madeira journey. Reflect on the day's highlights over a glass of Madeira wine, a fitting toast to the island's heritage.
