Miradouro da Eira da Achada is one of those hidden gems in Madeira that often gets overlooked, but it definitely shouldn’t be. We stopped here on the way to Fanal Forest after spending the morning at the Porto Moniz Natural Pools and Piscinas Naturais.
This viewpoint is easily accessible, as it’s located right by the main road, with a small parking area just a few meters away.
It’s a quick stop, but the views are incredible—towering cliffs, the endless Atlantic Ocean, Seixal village, and on clear days, you can even spot the coastline stretching far to the east and west.
We arrived around 10 AM and had the whole place to ourselves. It’s not one of those crowded tourist spots, which makes the experience even more special. If you’re heading through the northwestern part of Madeira, this viewpoint is a must-visit.
Key Highlights
⭐️ Best time to visit: sunrise or sunset for the best light and ambience
⭐️ Entrance fee: none
⭐️ Parking: Free and just a few steps from the viewpoint
⭐️ Crowds: Often empty—even during peak hours
⭐️ Time needed: 10–15 minutes is enough for photos and enjoying the view
⭐️ Nearby places: Fanal Forest, Porto Moniz Natural Pools, Piscinas Naturais
⭐️ Drone flying: Allowed
Quick Overview
Miradouro da Eira da Achada is one of the easiest and most underrated viewpoints in Madeira.
It’s located right next to the main road, so you don’t need to hike or plan much. There’s free parking just a few steps away, and we were completely alone when we visited around 10 AM—perfect for a peaceful stop.
The views over the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged northern coastline are breathtaking. There are two wooden swings, which make an amazing photo spot, and even paid toilets if you need a quick break.
You only need 10–15 minutes here, so it’s a great quick stop on the way to Fanal, especially if you’re coming from Porto Moniz.
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Where is Miradouro da Eira da Achada
The viewpoint is located on the northwestern coast of Madeira, just a short detour off the ER209 road. It’s only 15 minutes by car from Porto Moniz and about an hour’s drive from Funchal.
It’s located right next to the road, making it extremely easy to access, and is barely visited. We were completely alone.
Parking
Parking fee: free
There’s a small free parking area right next to the viewpoint. It only has a few spots, but that’s usually enough—this place doesn’t get crowded at all. If it happens to be full, you’ll find a few more spaces just a bit further down the road.
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Book now with Discover CarsWhat to expect
Total time needed: 10–20 minutes, including time for taking photos and enjoying the view.
This viewpoint offers stunning views over the rugged northwestern coast of Madeira and the village of Seixal tucked below. There are two viewing platforms, and both are worth visiting.
From the parking lot, it takes a couple of seconds to reach the first platform—just walk up a short set of stairs.
Here you’ll find a wooden frame with two swings perfectly placed in front of the view. They’re free to use and make a great spot for photos or videos with a dramatic coastal backdrop.
From this upper platform, you’ll already see the second viewpoint below. To get there, walk down another set of stairs.
The lower platform offers an clear view, with no railings or objects in front of you—perfect for capturing clean photos or zoomed-in shots of Seixal village.
If you have a telephoto lens or use your phone’s zoom, this is the place to use it. Just scroll down to see the photo example.
TIP: Since it’s in the northwest, the weather can be unpredictable. If it’s foggy or cloudy, don’t rush off—conditions change quickly.
TIP: Not so far away, there is another beautiful viewpoint – Miradouro da Garganta Funda.
Facilities
There are only paid toilets at the viewpoint, and nothing else. The village of Achadas da Cruz is very small, so don’t expect any restaurants or cafés nearby.
If you’re hungry, your best option is to head to Porto Moniz, just 15 minutes away, where you’ll find plenty of great food spots with ocean views.
TIP: If you’re coming from Miradouro da Eira da Achada to Funchal, then the scenic Levada das 25 Fontes hike is a great stop along the way.
Other viewpoints nearby
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva – One of the most iconic viewpoints on the north coast with a waterfall view. It’s only a 10-minute drive away and definitely worth a stop.
Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz – A short drive west takes you to this famous cable car. The ride down to the coastline is steep and scenic, with incredible views from the top.
TIP: Craving some beach time? Head to Praia do Garajau – one of the best beaches on Madeira for a relaxing swim and epic views.
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Final thoughts
Miradouro da Eira da Achada might not be on every Madeira itinerary, but it definitely deserves a quick stop. It’s peaceful, easy to access, and the views over the rugged coastline are beautiful, especially in the morning light when you’ll likely have it all to yourself.
If you’re heading to Fanal or exploring the north coast, don’t skip this spot.
Let us know in the comments if our guide helped you or share your experience—we’d love to hear how your visit went!
