5 Scenic Spots for Landscape Photography in Madeira
Madeira is a dream destination for landscape photography. From misty laurel forests to dramatic cliffs and lush waterfalls, this Portuguese island offers incredible diversity in a compact area. Whether you shoot long exposure, drone panoramas, or chase magical light at sunrise, landscape photography in Madeira is full of inspiration.
In this article, I share 5 of my favorite photography spots without revealing the exact coordinates, to preserve the spirit of exploration. For each location, I describe how I captured the photo, the gear I used (including my Nikon Z8 and DJI Mini 3 Pro), and my camera settings to help you plan your own adventure.
Sunset Above the Clouds at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira
Pico do Arieiro is one of the most iconic landmarks in Madeira. Perched at 1,818 meters, it offers panoramic views over the island’s jagged peaks and cloud inversions. It’s also the starting point of the famous PR1 hike to Pico Ruivo. I visited twice and witnessed two magical sunsets, with red and purple skies illuminating the rocky landscape.
How to get there
Pico do Arieiro is easy to reach by car. Drive to the viewpoint near the radar dome, where a parking lot is available. If it’s full, you might need to park about 600 meters below. Before heading up, check the weather forecast and live webcams, this peak is often covered in thick clouds.
I arrived well in advance to scout different compositions. I decided to include the hiking trail in the frame to guide the viewer’s eye into the scene. The dramatic clouds and warm sunset tones added depth and contrast to the final image.
Fanal forest is one of the most magical places in Madeira. Nestled in the Laurissilva forest, this ancient woodland is known for its twisted laurel trees and ever-changing fog. It’s a dream location for landscape photographers seeking a moody, fairytale atmosphere. I went there three times to capture various mood, from gentle mist to thick fog.
How to get there
Fanal Forest is located in the northwest of Madeira. You’ll find a parking lot close to the main entrance. As it’s a popular spot, I recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the day to enjoy the forest with fewer people around.
Fog was essential for this shot, but Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable. I used local webcams and the VIEWFINDR app to check conditions. After wandering for a while, I found this beautiful tree and framed it with space around the branches. My red dress added contrast and movement to the scene, especially with the wind catching the fabric.
Located at the island’s eastern tip, Ponta de São Lourenço is one of the best places in Madeira for sunrise photography. Its dramatic cliffs, sculpted by wind and sea, catch the first light of day in spectacular ways. I didn’t get the fiery sky I was hoping for, but after an hour of waiting, the scene transformed, light rays broke through the clouds and bathed the cliffs in golden light.
How to get there
The best place to photograph this coastline is from Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, which offers stunning views and is just a short walk from the car park. I recommend scouting the area early during your trip to find the composition that speaks to you.
I used the cracks in the foreground rocks to create natural leading lines and waited for the light to do the rest. When the rays finally appeared, they added depth and emotion to the otherwise rugged landscape. It was a reminder that sometimes, patience is the key to a powerful image.
Drone Panorama at Farol da Ponta do Pargo, Madeira
Located on the island’s remote northwestern tip, the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse offers sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. From above, the steep cliffs and isolated lighthouse create a dramatic contrast that’s perfect for drone photography. It’s one of the most scenic coastal spots on the island.
How to get there
Enter “Farol da Ponta do Pargo” in your GPS. The drive is straightforward, and a small car park is located right next to the lighthouse, making access very easy.
Before flying, I checked the wind conditions, it can get strong on the cliffs. I used my drone to capture a panoramic view by shooting 7 overlapping vertical images and merging them in Adobe Photoshop. The result highlights the scale and texture of the landscape from a unique aerial perspective.
My gear
✅ DJI Mini 3 Pro
Camera settings
7 vertical shots stitched into a panorama in Adobe Photoshop
Levada do Caldeirão Verde Waterfall, Madeira
Deep in the heart of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, the Caldeirão Verde waterfall is the reward at the end of a magical levada walk. Surrounded by lush vegetation and moss-covered cliffs, this emerald-hued waterfall is a paradise for nature and landscape photographers.
How to get there
The hike begins at Parque Florestal das Queimadas, near Santana. Follow the PR9 trail, which is well-marked and fairly flat, but includes several tunnels, don’t forget to bring a flashlight or headlamp.
I arrived around midday, and the sunlight hitting the pool turned the water a vivid emerald green. I chose to focus on the lower section of the waterfall to emphasize the contrast between the smooth water and the mossy rocks, using a long exposure to soften the flow.
Madeira is a true gem for landscape photographers, offering everything from dramatic cliffs to mystical forests. Whether you’re chasing the light at Pico do Arieiro or wandering through the fog of Fanal, each location has its own soul and atmosphere. I hope this guide helps you plan your visit and find inspiration for your own images.
And most of all, enjoy the moment. Happy shooting!
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