When the sun rises is does so for everyone, but not all have the privilege of watching it rise on this island. Ask any Madeiran what you can't really miss on a trip to Madeira and the answer will almost always be the same: watching the sunrise. The idyllic landscapes help to transform the beginning of another day into an unforgettable moment, be it at one of the highest points of the island (often with a show of clouds and photographs of those worth framing and hanging on the walls) or a lower viewpoint lower, right on the beach. The night before, check the exact time for the next morning's sunrise and set the alarm for two hours before, to ensure you will make it on time to settle in the best spot. If the weather is uncertain, there are webcams in the main points of the island that you can watch online, so as not to get out of bed in vain.
At 1,818 metres, it is one of the highest points on Madeira, and you can see as far as the coast from its impressive cliffs (try looking in this direction at sunset and capture images of the golden hues). There are paths from here to Pico Ruivo.
You’ll need a torch, comfortable shoes and several layers of clothing to beat the morning chill on this 45-minute walk to Madeira’s tallest peak, which stands 1,862 metres tall (the last 500 metres are tough going, but it’s worth the effort). On clear mornings, be ready for a show of colours ranging from very dark blue to bright orange.
Located on one of the slopes at the mouth of Ribeira do Faial in Santana county, it offers a beautiful view over the sea and has a small beach to the right, allowing you to see along the island’s northern coast, from Faial to Ponto de São Lourenço. You could stay at the very edge of the viewpoint or, if you are wearing suitable footwear that will prevent you from slipping, you can follow the rocky slope down closer to the shore. On cloudless days you can see as far as Porto Santo island.
The Bica da Cana viewpoint is 1,560 metres above sea level, making it a very good place from which to watch the sunrise, although many people underestimate its appeal in favour of taller peaks like Areeiro. If you’re already wide awake and don’t feel like going back to bed after the sun has risen, you can follow the 4.5 km trail to the Bica da Cana Pinnacle from here.
You get to decide which of nature’s phenomena is most beautiful when seen from here: sunrise or sunset. You will need to walk a bit to reach the highest point, where you will find the geodesic marker. There is no marked path, so you will have to find your own way.
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