20 Instagram Gems: Capturing the Magic of Madeira Island
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago where nature paints a breathtaking masterpiece. Lush forests drape the volcanic mountains, their slopes bursting with exotic blooms in a kaleidoscope of colors. Wander through these fragrant gardens, a photographer's paradise, or delve into the cool embrace of the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with ancient trees and unique wildlife. Craving wanderlust-worthy photos to spice up your Instagram feed? Look no further than Madeira Island! This Portuguese gem boasts a jaw-dropping diversity of landscapes, all guaranteed to snag those double-taps. Madeira offers 20 Instagram-worthy hotspots that will have your followers wondering where you're vacationing in paradise. So, grab your camera, pack your sense of adventure, and explore the most photogenic corners of Madeira Island!
Here are the top 20 Instagram-worthy places in Madeira:
1. Cascata do Risco (Risco Waterfall), Madeira Island
Madeira Island's Cascata do Risco, or Risco Waterfall, is a must-see for any nature lover. Reaching over 100 meters tall, it's not just one cascading drop, but a collection of cascading streams tumbling down a moss-covered cliff. This creates a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty. You can find it along the PR 6.1 Levada do Risco trail, an easy hike suitable for the whole family.
Discover the beauty of this waterfall firsthand, and reserve your place immediately!
2. Miradouro e Cascata do Véu da Noiva (Véu da Noiva Viewpoint and Waterfall), Madeira Island
The Miradouro do Véu da Noiva (Véu da Noiva Viewpoint) is a must-see for any visitor to Madeira Island. The viewpoint is located on the north coast of the island, near the town of Seixal. It offers stunning views of the Véu da Noiva Waterfall, which plunges over 100 meters into the Atlantic Ocean.
The waterfall is named after it resembles a bridal veil. The water cascades down a cliff face, creating a long, flowing veil of water. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, which makes it even more beautiful.
Explore the magic of the Northwest of Madeira Island with our full-day tour!
3. Posto Florestal do Fanal (Fanal Forest), Madeira Island
The Posto Florestal do Fanal (Fanal Forest) is a must-see for any nature lover visiting Madeira Island. The forest is located in the northwest of the island and is home to a variety of endemic plants and animals. The most famous tree in the forest is the Ocotea foetens, or Til, which can grow to be over 50 meters tall.
4.. Miradouro da Beira da Quinta (Beira da Quinta Viewpoint), Madeira Island
The viewpoint is located on the north coast of the island, in the parish of São Jorge. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula, and the town of Santana. The viewpoint is named after the Quinta do Arco, a 17th-century estate that is located nearby.
5. Praia do Seixal (Seixal Beach), Madeira Island
Praia do Seixal, also known as Praia do Porto do Seixal or Seixal Beach, is a beautiful black sand beach located on the north coast of Madeira Island, Portugal. It's a small beach but known for its dramatic scenery.
6. Pico do Arieiro/ Pico Ruivo (Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo Hike) , Madeira Island
Pico do Arieiro is the third highest peak of Madeira at 1,818m (5,964ft) high, and from there, you get the most incredible panoramic views over the central mountains of the island.One of the island's most visually stunning hiking trails starts here and ends in Pico Ruivo, so if you’re not afraid of heights go for it. Sitting at an astonishing 1,862m (6,100ft) tall, Pico Ruivo is Madeira's highest peak.
Ready to experience this with your own eyes? Book your hike now!
7. Ponta de São Lourenço (Point of Saint Lawrence), Madeira
The Easternmost point of Madeira Island is said to have earned its name from one of the three discoverers of the island, who shouted "São Lourenço, that’s enough!" upon nearing the peninsula with his ship.
Ponta de São Lourenço is waiting for you! Book your hike here.
8. Cascata dos Anjos (Angels Waterfall), Madeira Island
Playfully referred to as "Madeira’s famous car wash", the Cascata dos Anjos is a beautiful waterfall cascading right into the middle of the street. Well worth the visit even if it is just to take the famous photo under the waterfall!
9. Jardim Tropical Monte Palace (Monte Palace Tropical Garden), Madeira Island
A beautiful tropical garden located in the heart of Funchal, with an area of 70,000m², the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to a huge collection of exotic plants and also to one of Portugal’s most important tile collections spread all over the garden describing moments of Portuguese historical significance.
10. Miradouro do Guindaste (Guindaste Viewpoint), Madeira Island
The viewpoint is named after the guindaste, a type of crane that was once used to load and unload ships in the nearby port. The viewpoint was built in the early 20th century and has since become a popular tourist destination.
The Miradouro do Guindaste is a great place to take photos, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There is a small café at the viewpoint where you can buy snacks and drinks. There is also a souvenir shop where you can buy gifts and mementos for your visit.
11. Casas de Santana (Santana Traditional Houses), Madeira Island
Nestled on Madeira's beautiful North coast in the municipality of Santana, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, you'll find the small village of Santana and its cute-as-a-button traditional houses. Built of natural stone and thatched with straw roofs, these small, colorful houses served as dwellings for local families for centuries.
Join a van tour and discover the wonders of Santana!
12. Ponta do Bode (Bode Viewpoint), Madeira Island
Ponta do Bode, also known as Caniçal Viewpoint, is a breathtaking spot on the northern slope of the parish of Caniçal, Madeira Island. It offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Fajã da Quebrada Nova, and the surrounding cliffs. This viewpoint is unique because it's located on a protected ecosite with dramatic red-colored rocks, giving it an almost Martian landscape.
13. Piscinas de Porto Moniz (Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools), Madeira Island
The Piscinas de Porto Moniz (Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools) are a must-see for any visitor to Madeira Island. The pools are located on the north coast of the island, in the municipality of Porto Moniz. They are formed by lava rock and are filled with crystal-clear ocean water. The pools are a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. There is a small fee to enter the pools, and there are changing rooms and showers available.
Hop on a van tour and uncover the secrets of Porto Moniz!
14. Levada do Caldeirão Verde (Caldeirão Verde Hiking Trail), Madeira Island
The Levada do Caldeirão Verde is a must-do hike for any visitor to Madeira Island. The hike is located in the northwest of the island and is known for its stunning scenery and its moderate difficulty. After about 4.5 kilometers, the trail reaches the Caldeirão Verde waterfall, which is the highlight of the hike. The waterfall is over 100 meters high and plunges into a deep pool.
Set off on the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk and immerse yourself in nature!
15. Jardim Botânico da Madeira (Botanical Garden of Funchal), Madeira Island
First opened in 1960, the beautiful Madeira Botanical Garden spans an area of 80,000m² and is home to a collection of over 2,000 exotic plants.
16. Cabo Girão (Cape Girão), Madeira Island
A popular lookout point located on Madeira's sunny south coast, the beautiful Cabo Girão boasts breathtaking views over Funchal, Câmara de Lobos and the Atlantic as far as the eye can see.
Discover More with One Ticket: Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, & Cabo Girão - Hop On, Hop Off Adventure!
17. Miradouro da Portela (Portela Viewpoint), Porto Santo Island
Porto Santo has earned the popular nickname "The Golden Island" for its extensive 9km (5.5mi) stretch of shoreline with soft, golden sands and warm, crystal clear waters. Not only is it relaxing for beach bums, but the sands of Porto Santo Beach are said to have naturally healing properties, scientifically proven to help in the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases. The minerals found in the sea water also help your body recover from stress and fatigue.
18. Cascata das Vinte e Cinco Fontes (25 Springs Waterfall), Madeira Island
The Cascata das Vinte e Cinco Fontes (25 Springs Waterfall) is a beautiful waterfall located in Rabaçal, Paul da Serra on Madeira Island. The waterfall is 30 meters high, consisting of a group of different water streams coming vertically down the mountainside.
Embark on a hike to the mesmerizing 25 Fontes Levada Walk, book it here!
19. Miradouro Eira do Serrado (Eira do Serrado Viewpoint), Madeira Island
The Miradouro Eira do Serrado (Eira do Serrado Viewpoint) is a must-see for any visitor to Madeira Island. The viewpoint is located on the north coast of the island, in the municipality of Câmara de Lobos. It offers stunning views of the Curral das Freiras, a small village nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains.
Join a Van Tour to explore the serene beauty of Curral das Freiras Valley!
20. Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela (Ribeira da Janela Islets), Madeira Island
Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela (Ribeira da Janela Islets) are a group of islets located off the coast of the village of Ribeira da Janela in the municipality of Porto Moniz on Madeira Island. The islets are composed of volcanic rock and are home to a variety of seabirds, including Cory's shearwaters, common terns, and black-backed gulls.
Madeira Island's natural beauty and unique charm offer endless possibilities for capturing stunning Instagram-worthy photos. From dramatic coastlines and lush forests to colorful flowers and charming villages, Madeira caters to every aesthetic. So, pack your camera, embrace your inner explorer, and get ready to fill your feed with captivating content that will spark wanderlust in your followers. With these 20 diverse locations as your guide, your Madeira Island adventure is sure to be a social media success!
If you have fallen in love with Madeira, take a look at our hassle-free packages that allow you to plan your dream trip to this beautiful destination. Our team of local experts has thoughtfully designed all our packages, ensuring that you don't have to worry about any arrangements. Simply sit back, unwind, and make the most of your vacation!