Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço – Natural Reserve

If you’re planning to visit Madeira and looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, the Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço – Natural Reserve tour is a solid option. Although I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and overall rating suggest it offers a fantastic way to see a lesser-known but striking part of the island.

What I love about this experience is how it combines breathtaking scenery with a manageable hike—perfect for those who want to enjoy Madeira’s rugged coastline without the more technical challenges of other trails. Plus, the chance to spot protected seabirds and enjoy spectacular ocean views is a real highlight.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather—winds here can be quite strong, and the trail is exposed, so packing the right gear is essential. Also, the tour is about 6 hours long, which might be too much for some travelers with limited mobility or tighter schedules.

All in all, this tour suits nature lovers, keen walkers, or anyone eager to see Madeira’s eastern coast from a different perspective. It’s especially appealing if you want a mix of outdoor activity and scenic sightseeing in one go.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views of Ponta de São Lourenço, Deserted Islands, and Porto Santo
• Guided walk led by a knowledgeable mountain guide ensuring safety and insights
• Protected seabird sightings including species like Cory’s shearwater and Madeiran storm-petrel
• Moderate difficulty walk of about 6 km, suitable for most fit travelers
• Natural reserve status means scenic flora like Everlasting and Ice Flower
• Includes transportation from and back to your accommodation, making logistics easy

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Ponta de São Lourenço Tour All About?

This full-day excursion offers a well-rounded look at Madeira’s easternmost tip, a volcanic peninsula with dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean vistas. Starting with a hotel pickup, your day begins with a scenic drive through Madeira, giving you a taste of local scenery even before the hike kicks off.

Once you arrive, the adventure truly begins. The walk along the eastern coast of Madeira is about 6 km, with a gentle elevation gain of around 100 meters. The trail is described as easy-moderate, but keep in mind that the terrain can be exposed to wind and sun, so suitable gear is essential.

The Trail and Natural Beauty

The highlight of the tour is the trail itself. It’s a long, thin volcanic landform, offering impressive views on both sides. On one side, you’ll see the rugged coastlines and clear waters, while the other reveals the barren, rocky landscape with unique vegetation. You’ll pass through areas with plants like the Ice Flower (Mezembryanthemum crystallinum) and Everlasting (Helichrysum devium Johns)—endemic species that thrive in this harsh environment.

Because it’s designated as a partial natural reserve and part of the Natura 2000 network, the area is protected and home to several species of seabirds. Birdwatchers will be excited to scan the skies for Cory’s shearwater, the Madeiran storm-petrel, and other protected species such as the Bulwers petrel and common tern.

The Guides and the Experience

Guided by a local expert, you’ll get plenty of interesting tidbits about Madeira’s flora, fauna, and geological history. According to reviews, guides like Marta and Ruben bring enthusiasm and knowledge to the walk, making the experience both educational and engaging. One reviewer mentioned Ruben as a “great and tentative guide,” highlighting how much guides can enhance the trip.

Scenic Views and Photo Stops

Weather permitting, you’ll have fantastic views of the Deserted Islands to the south and the Porto Santo island to the north. These vistas are why many travelers say this tour is worth the price—around $52 per person—given the stunning scenery and the chance to see both northern and southern coastlines in one walk.

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Casa do Sardinha: A Charming Rest Stop

At the trail’s end, you reach Casa do Sardinha, a small, charming spot where you can rest and take in the surroundings. It’s a good place for photos and a breather before heading back. After a short break, you’ll retrace your steps, enjoying the same scenic trail in reverse.

The Logistics: What to Expect Day By Day

Pickup and Transportation
The tour starts with a pickup from over 40 different hotel locations, making it quite convenient. The driver takes you through scenic roads to the trailhead, with an optional refreshment stop that isn’t guaranteed but adds a local flavor to the journey.

Hiking Details
The walk typically lasts around 3.5 hours, with a total duration of about 6 hours including breaks and transportation. It’s considered moderate in difficulty—a good level for most hikers, but not suitable for those with severe health issues or mobility limitations. Proper footwear, like hiking shoes, and sun protection are a must.

Food and Drinks
While you can buy refreshments at local cafes along the way, it’s wise to bring your own water and snacks. The tour doesn’t include food, and there’s a small mandatory fee of €3 for trail maintenance, paid directly to your guide.

Weather and Safety
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Windy conditions are common, especially along exposed sections, so packing rain gear and windbreakers is advisable. The guides emphasize safety, but travelers should be aware of the exposed nature of the trail.

The Reviews Say It All

Multiple reviewers have raved about this tour—rating it 4.9 out of 5 based on 75 reviews. Giles called it “one of the best walks on Madeira” with “fantastic views,” appreciating that despite being busy, there’s enough space to enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded. Marta mentioned how the guides made the experience special, with Ruben sharing insights about Madeira’s endemic species.

Stella pointed out how impressive the landscape is, noting that good hiking boots are essential given the windy conditions. She also appreciated the organized nature of the trip, although she mentioned being back around 2 PM, which might surprisingly leave some travelers with the afternoon free.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a scenic walk off the beaten path. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views. However, it’s not suited for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues, given the hike’s moderate difficulty and exposed terrain.

If you’re after a relaxing beach day or a less physically demanding activity, this might not be the best fit. But if fresh air, stunning scenery, and learning about Madeira’s unique environment appeal to you, this is a fantastic choice.

Final Thoughts

Walking along Ponta de São Lourenço is a truly rewarding experience—a chance to witness Madeira’s volcanic origins and wild coastlines up close. The guided element adds value, giving you insights about the endemic plants and seabirds that call this area home. The scenery is spectacular, whether it’s the rugged cliffs, the ocean views, or the distant islands.

The tour offers excellent value for money considering the transportation, guide, and the chance to explore a protected natural area. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with a fair bit of walking in exposed terrain.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the winds and windswept landscapes are part of what make this hike special. Prepare properly, listen to your guide, and you’ll likely come away with a new appreciation for Madeira’s rugged beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 8 due to the length and difficulty of the hike, as well as exposure to wind and uneven terrain.

What should I bring on the hike?
Comfortable shoes, hiking shoes recommended, sunscreen, rain gear, and plenty of water and snacks. Dress in layers for wind and sun protection.

Can I buy food and drinks along the way?
There’s no guarantee of food or drinks being available along the trail, so bringing your own is wise. There are cafes at the start/end points.

What is the duration of the hike?
The walk itself takes about 3.5 hours, with the entire tour lasting around 6 hours including transportation, breaks, and sightseeing.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish, aiming to accommodate travelers from different backgrounds.

What about the weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. Be prepared for wind, sun, or rain, and dress accordingly. The landscape is exposed, so wind protection is advised.

If you’re craving a scenic, active day that combines Madeira’s rugged coastline with wildlife and stunning vistas, this tour hits the spot. Just remember to pack properly, go prepared for wind, and enjoy the wild beauty of Ponta de São Lourenço.

You can check availability for your dates here: