9 hidden places in Madeira that not every tourist knows about
5 min read9 destinations
Madeira Islands · Portugal
The true magic of Madeira is often hidden far from its most popular attractions. It is in places like these that you can feel the island’s unhurried rhythm, enjoy its untouched nature, and discover a side of Madeira that is rarely shown on standard tourist postcards. If you have already seen the island’s main landmarks, be sure to add these locations to your itinerary — they will offer completely new travel experiences. Here are nine locations that deserve a spot on your Madeira itinerary.
Fanal Forest
Fanal Forest – The Mystical Laurel Forest of Madeira
Fanal is one of the most atmospheric places on the island, located on the Paul da Serra plateau. Ancient laurel trees grow here, many of them twisted by time and strong winds. The forest is often covered in thick mist, creating an almost magical, fairytale-like atmosphere.
Walking here feels like stepping into another world: soft light, silence, and very few people make this place truly unique. It is especially beautiful early in the morning or on cloudy days.
Why visit: It is one of the most photogenic and mystical places in Madeira, perfect for atmospheric walks and photography.
Porto do Seixal Beach
Praia do Seixal – Black Volcanic Beach
Praia do Seixal is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Madeira, featuring black volcanic sand and lush green cliffs surrounding it. The contrast between the ocean, mountains, and dark shoreline creates a truly striking landscape.
Here you can take a peaceful walk, go for a swim, or simply enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is also much less crowded than the southern resorts of the island.
Why visit: for its unique volcanic beach and one of the most photogenic coastlines in Madeira.
Água d’Alto Waterfall
Água d’Alto Waterfall – A Hidden Natural Spot
This waterfall is located deep in the northern part of the island and rarely appears on tourist itineraries. After rainfall, it becomes especially powerful and picturesque.
The surroundings are filled with dense greenery, humid air, and a strong sense of isolation from civilization. It can be reached via small trails, making the visit feel like a little adventure.
Why visit: for its secluded nature and a truly “wild” waterfall without tourist crowds.
Guindaste Viewpoint
Guindaste Viewpoint – Glass Views Over the Ocean
Guindaste is a viewpoint on the northeast coast of Madeira featuring transparent platforms above the Atlantic Ocean. From here, you can enjoy dramatic views of rugged cliffs and the endless ocean.
This spot is perfect for photography and for quietly watching the waves. Despite its impressive appearance, it is usually less crowded than the more popular viewpoints in the south of the island.
Why visit: for panoramic ocean views and the feeling of “floating” above the cliffs.
Things to do in Madeira
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Our Lady of Fátima Chapel
Our Lady of Fátima Chapel – Panorama of Funchal
This small chapel is located on the hills above Funchal, surrounded by silence and green slopes. From the nearby viewpoint, you can enjoy panoramic views of the island’s capital and the Atlantic Ocean.
The place remains relatively unknown to most tourists, making it easy to find peace and solitude. It is especially beautiful at sunset, when the city lights begin to glow.
Why visit: for its peaceful atmosphere and one of the best views over Funchal.
Levada do Moinho – Levada Nova Hiking Route
Levada do Moinho – A Hidden Hiking Trail
This trail is located in the southwest of Madeira and runs through green terraces, forests, and irrigation channels. The route combines tunnels, waterfalls, and open views over the valleys.
The levada is less popular than the island’s famous hiking routes, making it ideal for peaceful walks without tourist crowds. It is a great option for nature lovers and easy hiking enthusiasts.
Why visit: for a quiet trail with varied landscapes and very few tourists.
Lighthouse Viewpoint of Ponta do Pargo
Ponta do Pargo – Western Sunsets of Madeira
Ponta do Pargo is the westernmost point of the island, known for its sunsets and its lighthouse perched on a cliff. From here, you can enjoy endless views over the Atlantic Ocean.
In the evening, the place becomes especially atmospheric as the sun sinks below the horizon. There is a strong sense of silence and complete seclusion.
Why visit: to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets in Madeira.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde Trail
Caldeirão Verde – Green Canyon and Waterfall
Caldeirão Verde is one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Madeira. The trail passes through dense laurel forest, tunnels, and rocky corridors.
At the end of the route, a tall waterfall cascades into a green canyon basin. The atmosphere here feels like a tropical rainforest with high humidity and lush vegetation.
Why visit: for one of the most impressive waterfalls and a full immersion into the island’s wild nature.
Ponta do Rosto Viewpoint
Ponta do Rosto Viewpoint – The Eastern Edge of the Island
Ponta do Rosto is a unique natural peninsula that looks very different from the rest of Madeira. There is very little vegetation here, and the landscape is made up of red volcanic cliffs.
The scenery resembles a Martian surface, while strong winds create a true “edge of the world” feeling. It is one of the most unusual places on the island for hiking and photography.
Why visit: for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and a completely different side of Madeira.
These spots are scattered across the whole island, so give yourself two or three days and a rental car rather than rushing them. Fanal Forest is worth timing for early-morning fog, when the ancient laurels turn ghostly, and the Caldeirão Verde levada is a longer walk through rock tunnels, so pack a headtorch and grippy shoes. Group the northwest (Fanal, Seixal's natural pools, Ponta do Pargo) on one day, and the eastern points like Ponta do Rosto on another.
