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.

Hidden Gems of Madeira Island — Mapa

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.

Andy Hawkins / CC BY-SA 2.0

D

Sao Lourenco Fortress-Palace

An impressive colonial fortress from the 15th century served as a seat of military and governors.

Coeli / Public domain

E

Quinta Vigia Gardens

The official residence of the President of the Autonomous Region of Madeira. A part of the gardens are open to the public.

Hajotthu / CC BY 3.0

F

Igreja do Colégio

The church has beautifully decorated walls and ceiling. You can also climb the tower and admire the wonderful views.

Luke H. Gordon / CC BY 2.0

G

Santa Clara Church and Monastery

The chapel is characteristic for its traditional tiles and an impressive wooden ceiling.

D-Stanley / CC BY 2.0

H

Manor Estate of the Crosses Museum

Manor house surrounded by a garden full of exotic species. The museum collections encompass rich variety of antiques and paintings.

Unknown authorUnknown author / Public domain

I

Emperor's Gardens

Charles I or Karl I was Emperor of Austria, King of Hungary, King of Croatia, King of Bohemia, and the last of the monarchs belonging to…

J

Capela de São Sebastião

16th-century chapel in Ponta do Sol featuring Manueline architectural elements and a traditional whitewashed stone facade.

K

Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição

Small 17th-century chapel located in Funchal, known for its intricate gilded woodcarvings and period religious art.

L

Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte

18th-century chapel situated on the cliffs of Ribeira Brava, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.