Miradouro da Encumeada: viewpoint in Madeira
At 1,007 m above sea level, Miradouro da Encumeada is a viewpoint in São Vicente.
Pass viewpoint at 1007 m linking the north and south coasts, on clear days you can see both seas at once.
Share this venue
About Miradouro da Encumeada
Miradouro da Encumeada is one of Madeira's signature miradouros
At 1007 m, Miradouro da Encumeada sits above the usual cloud line: mornings here often start with a sea of white filling the valleys below. The Atlantic weather moves fast at this altitude, so the view can flip from zero visibility to panorama in minutes. Dress for wind and carry a jacket even in summer.
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
São Vicente, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.75440, -17.01190
Visitor reviews
Honest first-person notes from people who have actually been to Miradouro da Encumeada. Reviews are moderated before they appear, no account needed.
Loading reviews…
Frequently asked
Is Miradouro da Encumeada 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 Miradouro da Encumeada?
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 Miradouro da Encumeada
The nearest town, viewpoint and walk: the three things most visitors pair with Miradouro da Encumeada in a day.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Miradouro da Encumeada.
Plan the rest of your trip
The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.
The monthly Madeira letter
Once a month: what's on the island next month, trails that closed or reopened, ferry and cable car changes, and the new guides worth reading. Written by Mike, no sponsored posts, unsubscribe in one click.
Your address is used for this letter only. Never sold, never shared.