Ponta de São Lourenço

The place

A bare volcanic peninsula reaching east into the Atlantic — red and ochre cliffs, no trees, sea on both sides. It looks nothing like the rest of Madeira, which is exactly why you go.

When to come

Early morning or the last two hours of light. In the middle of a summer day there is no shade at all.

Worth knowing

• Zero shade on the whole route — sun protection and real water
• Very exposed to wind; on windy days it is unpleasant and can be unsafe
• Car park at Baía d’Abra fills by mid-morning
• Cliff edges are unfenced and the rock is crumbly
• Booking required via the SIMplifica portal, 4.50 euros for adults, free 12 and under
• 4 km one-way (8 km return), about 2h30
• Max altitude 126 m, min 23 m - exposed, little shade