If you’re looking for sweeping views, fresh sea air, and a quiet spot to soak it all in, the Pico do Facho Viewpoint is well worth the climb. Located at an altitude of 280m above Machico on Madeira’s eastern coast, this scenic lookout offers one of the best panoramic experiences on the island. From its breezy peak, you can take in views that stretch from the runway of Cristiano Ronaldo Airport to the Desertas Islands and, on a clear day, even out to Ponta de São Lourenço.
The name Pico do Facho refers to the old fire signals (“facho” meaning torch or beacon) once used here to warn the island of pirate attacks. Today, the only thing that will steal your attention is the spectacular scenery. It’s a peaceful place that’s a little off the usual tourist trail, adding to its charm.
Whether you’re a photographer chasing that perfect shot, a hiker looking for a rewarding climb, or someone who just loves discovering viewpoints with a story, the Pico do Facho Viewpoint (or “Miradouro do Pico do Facho” in Portuguese) is a great stop to add to your Madeira itinerary.
What to do when visiting Pico do Facho Viewpoint
When you reach the Pico do Facho Viewpoint, take your time—this isn’t a spot to rush through. You’ll immediately notice just how open and wide the views are. On a clear day, you can look out over the whole bay of Machico, spot the cliffs that define Madeira’s coast, and even see as far as the Desertas Islands on the horizon.
One thing that surprises a lot of visitors is how good this viewpoint is for plane spotting. Madeira’s Cristiano Ronaldo Airport is just around the corner, and from the front-facing side of the viewpoint, you’ve got a clear line of sight to the runway. Planes appear to glide right past you as they approach the tarmac—it’s a rare perspective that even non-aviation fans find fascinating. Bring binoculars if you’re keen, or just enjoy the show with a coffee in hand from the occasional mobile vendor that sometimes sets up near the viewpoint.
As we mentioned above, if you’re feeling active, you can carry on along the coastal trail towards Caniçal and Ribeira Beach. It’s a peaceful walk, with fewer people and some brilliant photo opportunities. Along the way, you’ll find hidden vantage points, grazing goats, and plenty of spots to pause and admire the rolling greens against the deep blue sea. The stretch isn’t difficult, but it’s long enough to feel like a proper outing.
Back at the viewpoint itself, there are picnic tables nearby if you fancy a sit-down lunch. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to even more expansive views, especially looking inland towards the mountains of Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro, which often peek through the clouds.
So whether you’re hiking, relaxing, snapping photos, or watching planes glide by, the Pico do Facho Viewpoint offers a little bit of everything.
How to get to Pico do Facho Viewpoint
Reaching Pico do Facho Viewpoint is easy enough, but the route you choose can really shape the experience.
By car
By car, take the ER101 road out of Machico and follow signs to turn onto the Caminho do Pico do Facho. It leads straight to the top, but the road is narrow and winding—typical of Madeira’s mountain drives. Parking is very limited, so you may have to turn back or squeeze in where you can.
On foot
If you’ve got time and don’t mind a climb, hiking is far more rewarding. A popular route (around 4km) starts near Snack Bar Levada Nova and follows a quiet uphill road before becoming a more rugged trail. It’s about a kilometre up, with increasingly scenic views as you go.
A steeper, more peaceful alternative begins from central Machico, cutting across grassy slopes. It’s actually the final stretch of the Madeira Island Ultra Trail and offers a more natural, traffic-free experience.
Once at the base of the viewpoint, climb the final stairs or continue along a cliffside path towards Caniçal or Ribeira Beach, with panoramic views of the Atlantic and Desertas Islands.
So, while you can drive, if you’re able, we highly recommend the hike—it’s well worth the effort.
Find out more about the best hiking trails in Madeira.
Tips to make the most of your visit to Pico do Facho
Timing is everything here. The viewpoint is stunning at any time of day, but if you can catch the sunrise or sunset, it’s even more special. Early mornings tend to be quieter and often clearer, while the golden light in the late afternoon adds an extra glow to the landscape.
Weather-wise, Madeira’s east tends to be sunnier and drier, but it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you go. Bring a light jacket even in summer—it can get breezy at the top, especially in the evening.
If you’re visiting in summer or on a weekend, arrive early to avoid the crowds. The car park is small, and while it rarely gets overrun, it can fill up during holidays or local events.
Don’t forget water and sunscreen. While the walk isn’t long, it can feel exposed under the midday sun, so aim for earlier or later in the day if you’re walking up.
And finally, take your time. It’s the kind of place where you don’t want to rush. Sit for a while and soak in the island from above.
Why visit Pico do Facho Viewpoint
The Pico do Facho Viewpoint is one of those Madeira spots that locals know and love. It doesn’t shout for attention like some of the island’s bigger attractions, but it rewards anyone who makes the effort to go. The views are uninterrupted, the vibe is peaceful, and it offers a real sense of Madeira’s natural drama.
If you’re staying in or near Machico, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary. And even if you’re based elsewhere, it’s absolutely worth the detour.
To make the most of your time on the island, book your stay with Atlantic Holiday. Whether you’re after a coastal apartment in Machico, a hillside villa with a view, or a comfortable base for hiking adventures, there are plenty of great options to suit every type of traveller.
