Hidden Gems of Madeira Island

Beyond the bustling center of Funchal, Madeira Island preserves historic manor houses and secluded religious sites. This collection includes the 15th-century São Lourenço Fortress and the Quinta das Cruzes museum, which houses extensive collections of antiques and paintings. Coastal highlights feature the volcanic cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço and the Rocha do Navio viewpoint. Architectural landmarks range from the Jesuit Igreja do Colégio with its panoramic tower to small 16th-century chapels like São Sebastião and the tile-adorned Santa Clara Monastery.

Richard Bartz / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Ponta de Sao Lourenco

Volcanic peninsula and protected nature reserve with hiking trails, unique flora and fauna, and panoramic coastal views.

Stephen Colebourne / CC BY 2.0

B

Funchal Cathedral

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sé, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Funchal,…

Jacqueline / CC-BY-SA

C

Miradouro Rocha do Navio

Coastal viewpoint in Santana overlooking a nature reserve and traditional agricultural plateaus. It provides access to the shore via a steep cable car.