The Out of The Time Eastern Side of Madeira

Before heading to the famouse hike known as the Dragon's tail, let's stop at Ponta do Rosto. The point offers a breathtaking viewpoint with on one hand, the most eastern point of the island and on the other hand, the duality between the North and the South side of the island. You can usually observe the difference of weather between both!
Enjoy the show.

You are now going to do the Ponta de São Lourenço hike. It is a 7km long easy hike. It is pretty flat the entire way and there are numerous wonderful viewpoints where the colours and geology can be observed.
Leave your car at the parking lot and let's head towards the start of the hike.

This is the start of the hike. Breathtaking rock formations, crashing waves, every shade of colours is on the program. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, have some stops along the way to take pictures and soak in the beautiful environment.

Have a quick stop at this viewpoint before heading towards the last part of the hike, the peak at Ponta do Furado. If you feel tired, you can skip the last part and head towards Casa Sardinha directly.

It is now the hardest part of the hike. It is quite steep but short. The effort is worth it. Pico do Furado offer a panoramic view over the entire hike and the Southern coast further down.

After so much efforts, let's have a stop at Casa do Sardinha. It was built for Manuel Bettencourt Sardinha who, after having built the Cais de Abra in 1905, ordered it to be built in order to serve as a place of refuge and vacation.
They serve drinks and snack food like sandwiches, quiches, etc. Bring your own picnic if you would rather eat something different.
Opening hours:
Everyday: 11.00 - 18.00

Before heading back to the parking lot, let's have a swim in the warm water of Madeira and enjoy the rocky beach. After the stop, you will take the same path to go back to the parking. Be present to enjoy this landscape out of time.

You made it back from one of the most beautiful hikes in Madeira. Let's get back in the car to continue our escape. You are now heading to a café to have a well-deserved break.

It is time for a well-deserved break. Treat yourself with a hot drink. FYI, cafe have a special name in Madeira - A "chino" is a long black and a "bica" is an espresso. It is also a great opportunity to try the famous "pastéis de nata", a delicious custard pie.
Opening hours:
Everyday: 7.00 - 22.00
After the break, enjoy the scenic drive heading towards the next stop.

In Madeira, the North and South side are very different. The island is so diverse that it seems like a continent by itself. The North of the island is super green and usually, the weather is more whimsical. The Portela viewpoint offers an amazing sight of the Porta da Cruz area, one of the few beaches you can surf at in Madeira.

Welcome to Porto da Cruz. The Furna viewpoint offers another view over the city. On a sunny day, you will see people jumping in the water and enjoying the warm water. On a foggy day, enjoy the natural show of the waves getting into the beautiful cave. It's worth the detour.

You arrived at the magnificent Quinta Do Furao where you will spend the night at. Overlooking a rocky coastline and the Rocha do Navio Nature Reserve, this stylish hotel is a must-visit. The typical hotel offers elegant and comfortable rooms and the service is amazing. Park your car in the parking lot, proceed with check-in and drop your bags in your before heading to the restaurant for dinner.

The restaurant Quinta do Furao is well-known on the island. Not only the cuisine is fine and delicious but the setting is absolutely beautiful. Enjoy the incredible view, the attentive and caring staff and hearty and tasty dishes.
Opening hours:
Everyday: 12.30 - 21.30
Book a table

This is the end of another day full of memories. It’s time to rest. Tomorrow, you will experience one of the most exciting activity on the island which is the sunrise at the peak so get ready for it.