Ponta de São Lourenço PR8 walk on the peninsula of Madeira

The PR8 walk on Madeira explores the rugged eastern peninsula of Ponta de São Lourenço, a protected nature reserve known for its dry, volcanic landscape that contrasts strongly with the green rest of the island.

The route starts at Baía d’Abra and runs approximately 7.5 km along a narrow ridge towards Cais do Sardinha. Along the way, you walk through an almost desert-like basalt landscape with spectacular cliffs, ocean views, and small islands off the coast. Important viewpoints such as Ponta do Rosto and Ponta do Castelo showcase the whimsical erosion forms of the peninsula, sometimes offering views as far as the distant horizon.

The hike is moderately difficult and is well marked, but there is little shade. It is one of the most iconic hikes in Madeira, especially due to the combination of ocean panoramas, volcanic rock formations, and unique flora and fauna.