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Viewpoints · CalhetaReview

Farol da Ponta do Pargo: viewpoint in Madeira

At 312 m above sea level, Farol da Ponta do Pargo is a viewpoint in Calheta.

Lighthouse on the western tip of Madeira, perched on a 312 m cliff with classic sunset views.

Edited by Madeira Info Editorial·Last checked

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Elevation
312 m
Region
Calheta
Coordinates
32.8138, -17.2603

About Farol da Ponta do Pargo

Farol da Ponta do Pargo is one of Madeira's signature miradouros

Farol da Ponta do Pargo looks out over steep terrain rather than open ocean, so the foreground is as dramatic as the horizon. Light changes quickly in these valleys: early morning and late afternoon give the deepest shadows and the most colour.

What to know before you go

  • Bring a windproof layer, even on warm days the exposed clifftops are noticeably cooler.
  • First light and the last hour of the day are when the cliffs colour up, middle of the day is the harshest window.
  • Parking is small at most miradouros; arrive early or be prepared to wait briefly for a spot.
  • Stay behind the railings, the cliffs are higher than they look.

Best time to visit

Year-round, but May, June, September and October combine the most settled weather with the best light. Avoid windy days for clifftop viewpoints.

Location

Calheta, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps

32.81380, -17.26030

Visitor reviews

Honest first-person notes from people who have actually been to Farol da Ponta do Pargo. Reviews are moderated before they appear, no account needed.

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Frequently asked

Is Farol da Ponta do Pargo free to visit?

Access is free. Some neighbouring private terraces or cafés charge for seating, but the official viewing platform doesn't.

How long should I spend at Farol da Ponta do Pargo?

Allow at least half an hour. On a clear day it's tempting to stay through golden hour, so build that into your schedule.

Plan around Farol da Ponta do Pargo

The nearest town, viewpoint and walk: the three things most visitors pair with Farol da Ponta do Pargo in a day.

TownsPonta do Pargo578 m awayTrailsPonta do Pargo Coastal Walk (Boa Morte to the Lighthouse)0 m awayBeachesPaul do Mar6.9 km away

Nearby on Madeira

Other places within easy reach of Farol da Ponta do Pargo.

Trails
Ponta do Pargo Coastal Walk (Boa Morte to the Lighthouse)
0 m
Towns
Ponta do Pargo
578 m
Viewpoints
Miradouro da Garganta Funda
1.1 km
Trails
Vereda da Achadas da Cruz
2.1 km
Towns
Achadas da Cruz
6.4 km
Towns
Paul do Mar (Parish)
6.7 km

Plan the rest of your trip

The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.

GuideMadeira travel guideThe full island in one long read.Plans3, 5 & 7-day itinerariesReady-made road-trip plans.WeatherMonth-by-month climateAir, sea, rain and sun by month.TipsFirst-timer travel tipsCar hire, parishes, red flags.

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