Ponta de São Lourenço
Author: Friedrich
The Ponta de São Lourenço is one of Madeira's most spectacular landscapes. The easternmost point of the island is characterised by inhospitable, yet fascinating nature. The peninsula stands in desert-like contrast to the yet evergreen mountain slopes of the central mountain range. A 3.5-hour hike of 6.5 km in total provides an insight into the uniqueness of the region, as well as a vivid opportunity to see Madeira's volcanic history first-hand.
It is very difficult to give an exact description of the hike, as the landscape changes with every step. However, you should be aware of the changeable weather: at Ponta de São Lourenço it is usually very windy. Clouds and pure sunshine alternate constantly, so you should have a rain jacket, sufficient headgear and enough sun protection with you. Due to the several-hour hike and the lack of drinking water at the Punta, sufficient water supplies are a must for the excursion. Although there is a kiosk at the start of the hike (the starting point is the roundabout at the park area), it is advisable to take enough water with you of your own accord.
The hiking trail initially leads through sandy hilly landscapes with sparse vegetation. Again and again you have to cross small hills. After each hill conquered, a unique panorama of the coastal landscape opens up. The route leads uphill and downhill, always with the Atlantic Ocean and its powerful surf in view, past rocky slopes and individual viewpoints (miradouros) that offer a view of the eroded lava coast. After time and many conquered climbs, the steepness of the landscape decreases and gentle sand hills form a distinctly inviting landscape. The vibrant red and orange colouring of the slopes is striking. Nestled in the gentle, desert-like mountain landscape is a small rest stop (Casa do Sardinha) for hikers. From here, an ascent to Pico do Furado is possible. The summit is the last accessible hiking destination of the Ponta de São Lourenço. From up there, the view sweeps over the Ilhéu do Farol. The coastal landscape is very rough and resembles that of Ireland or Scotland.
The Ponta de São Lourenço is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but also for families. The ascents and descents are sometimes quite steep, but only for a short time and reward you with unique views. The landscapes are so different and changeable. For a short time, one feels transported to the Maghreb, the South Seas or Ireland or Scotland. From the rest stop it is also possible to return to the car park by boat.
