We visited this part of Madeira twice and just loved it so much. It's totally different than the rest of the island and filled with green pastures, cows, farms and very small villages. Here are three of the best and prettiest activities to do:
Get in a coastal hike!
The one we did with Kim was called Verada do Pesqueiro near Ponta do Pargo. We parked on a rural road and walked down a rocky road past cows to reach our trailhead right on the edge of the slopes.
It was a steady zig-zag of switchbacks as we climbed our way down and we decided to stop at the halfway point as we considered the climb back up! The views were just beautiful the entire time as we walked past prickly pear cactus mixed in with tropical vegetation and that blue, blue water.
Next was a quick stop to grab a pick me up at the Gato Legal Coffee Roastery.
See stunning views (or a sunset) around a lighthouse
Then we headed to the Farol da Ponta do Pargo. We had fun wandering all around the perimeter of this adorable lighthouse (which was built in 1922 but isn't open to the public) and soaking up the views in both directions (and yes, more cows).
Kim and I had the most incredible opportunity to watch two kestrels chasing each other. They did this several times and it looked like they were dancing with each other as they twirled around in the sky. It was mesmerizing!
The second time we came here was with Brian & Amanda and we timed it just right to see the sun go down which made for some gorgeous lighting with stormy clouds. This is a great spot for for sunset watching.
Be amazed by green pastures and panoramic views
Then we drove to the stunning Miradouro de Boa Morte where we parked next to a small white church. It's hard to describe the beauty of the bright green grass, cows grazing in the fields, birds, wind blowing and the views of the coastline in both directions. Suffice it to say we felt like we had been been transported to Ireland! These images are from both times we came and we absolutely loved it.
It was really incredible to look down and watch the kestrels as they hovered below us in the wind above the crashing waves.
So if you want a completely different experience pack your windbreaker and head out for the day to this gorgeous part of the island.
You won't regret it.
November/December 2022
So magical!! I miss the cows and kestrels. 🥰