Through the Madeira Mountains!

We took our first drive cutting our way through the middle of the island and it was spectacular. Here are some of our favorite things to do when exploring this part of Madeira.

The Route From Funchal

We began heading out of the city on ER101 passing the numerous banana groves and rolling towns that dot the southern coast.

Then we turned inward on ER104 and began working our way into the mountains where it turned super green and vertical! These inland areas are very prone to clouds that move around quickly and often hang around the highest peaks so we can get weather that changes quickly. Be sure to take the smaller local road ER228 so that you can see some of the amazing viewpoints along this stretch as you get some super pretty views that you miss on staying on the main road.

Stop At Miradouros (Viewpoints)

Along ER228 it had a very tropical rain forest kind of feeling with an amazing variety of green things growing everywhere and we kept stopping whenever we could. Two of our favorite places to do this were here and here. One thing I love is how often you hear roosters in these gorgeous mountain villages.

Pass Through Beautiful Mountain Towns

It was so beautiful to pass through these valleys and villages and see the vineyards, gardens, wildflowers and orchards. As we got closer to reaching the Northern coastline the sky got brighter and we began to see glimpses of the water.

Enjoy São Vicente

We reached this small coastal town and stopped to have lunch on the balcony at Restaurante Caravela. While we ate and watched the big waves, the clouds came rolling in. It didn't take long for them to move through and the sun came back out shining on that blue water.

Head Northeast on ER101

We continued driving up the coastline stopping a few times at viewpoints to enjoy this new part of the island until we realized it was time to turn around and head back home. Can't wait to return and see the rest of this part of the island!