Portugal
Cruising along Madeira's north coast
Let's explore Madeira's north coast via the beautiful ER101 packed between the dramatic cliffs and the rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Follow us along the most iconic viewpoints, take a dip in a tidal pool and watch the sunset from the far most tip of the island.
Crossing the mountains to the north coast
We're staying at the south coast, so we need to cross the mountains to get to the north side of the island. Madeira has many climates on one island and that is something you see at the top of these mountains. We start our day in the sun and literaly drove into the clouds. And watch the road, because cows are just chilling in the middle of the road.
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
A waterfall crashing down into the ocean. What more do we need to say?! Head over to this viewpoint and get an incredible view on one of the most beautiful points on the north coast.
Cascata da Ribeira da Pedra Branca
The main road along the coast is a modern highway with many new tunnels that replaced the old road that winded along the cliffs. At some parts you can still choose to ride these "Antigo Traçado da ER101". Just outside Seixal on your way to Ribeira da Janela you can take the exit and drive along the ocean to the Cascata da Ribeira da Pedra Branca. This waterfall falls directly into the ocean with a bridge in front of it. A magical place to take a short break.
Ilheus da Janela
A little bit further along the road is a little town called Ribeira da Janela. This place is famous for its two large rocks in front of the coast. Park your car at the bottom near the river and walk up the stairs into the cliff. After you walk through the arch you'll have a beautiful viewpoint on the famous rocks. Go down to the beach and build your own rock cairn.
Cooling down in a tidal pool
Continue your route to Porto Moniz to the "Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz". This tidal pool has the luxury of a public pool but the magic of a true tidal pool with waves rolling over the borders of the pool filling it up with fresh ocean water.
Sunset at Miradouro dos Pombais
Just outside Porto Moniz you'll find the far most northwest point of the island. One of the viewpoints here is called Miradouro dos Pombais. This easy to access viewpoint gives you a beautiful view on the bay with the famous fisher town of Achadas da Cruz down below.
