Red cliffs and blue water at Ponta de São Lourenço, the exposed coastal scenery of the peninsula walk.

Ponta de São Lourenço

702 from Funchal
Photo: Diego Delso · CC BY-SA 4.0 · cropped

The easternmost point of Madeira features dramatic volcanic rock formations and contrasts sharply with the island's green interior. The PR8 hiking trail offers spectacular coastal views across multicolored rock layers.

Getting there and back

Where to board

Route 702 runs east from Funchal through Machico and Caniçal to Baía d’Abra. Open the route page for its Funchal stop list and the timetable and source.

From the stop

Baía d’Abra is the end of the road: the PR8 trail starts at the car park where the bus turns. There is no village, shade or shop here.

The way back

Only route 702 returns from Baía d’Abra. The last departure sets the length of your hike: read it on the route page before you start, and allow for the walk back to the car park.

Good to know

  • Check the official trail status before setting out; the peninsula is exposed and windy, with no water on the trail.
Trail access and your return

Bus access does not establish whether a trail is accessible. Consult the official trail and reservation sources before setting out.

Choose the return transport before the walk; the route page carries the bus timetable and its source.

Visit Madeira — trail information
Travel Tip: Tickets bought from the driver are cash only. Prepare small euro coins or notes, keep a little extra in case the fare has changed, and reserve your return fare. More cash and ticket tips.

What to see at Ponta de São Lourenço

Hike the PR8 trail (4-5 hours return) for stunning views of vertical cliffs and hidden bays. Best visited in spring for wildflowers. Bring water and sun protection as the peninsula is exposed and arid.

Best time to visit

Spring (March-May) for wildflowers and moderate temperatures. Avoid midday heat in summer. The peninsula can be windy year-round. Clear days offer the best coastal views.

Keep the timetables with you

Madeira Bus is free to download: the free version covers journey planning on the SIGA network and offline timetables in English, Portuguese, German and French. The offline route map is a paid premium upgrade.