Ponta de São Lourenço Trail. Ponta de São Lourenço is a nature reserve located in Caniçal, on the eastern edge of the island of Madeira.
It is a windy place with spectacular landscapes that will stay in your memory for a long time.
We walked along the trail PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço from the parking lot to Cais do Sardinha and we loved it.
It was a morning well spent despite the physical effort.
PR8 – Ponta de São Lourenço Trail
PR 8 Vereda São Lourenço PR8 Vereda São Lourenço
The PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is a pedestrian route about three km long, to which you must add another three km for the return trip.
The trail is marked and is in good condition, although some places are difficult for those suffering from vertigo.
Our children accompanied us without any problem, including the youngest (eight years old).
We went through wooden walkways, dirt paths, stone stairs, and even went to a beach, so don’t forget to bring your bathing suit.
Going by boat to Cais do Sardinha
It is possible to swim at Cais do Sardinha, but there is a better beach for bathing a few meters away.
In any case, you can take a boat trip to Cais do Sardinha and, if I’m not mistaken, the ticket price per person is €5.
If you are tired, the boat will drop you off at a point closer to the car park, but you will always have to walk a good part of the way back.
Lunch at Casa do Sardinha
Casa do Sardinha is a bar that serves quick meals. It has a large terrace with shaded and sunny seating.
You can order soup, sandwiches, quiches, and fries. We chose the hamburger in bolo do caco, and it was delicious.
Please note that payment is required to use the restrooms.
How to get to Ponta de São Lourenço Trail
It is about 30 km from Funchal to Ponta de S. Lourenço but there is no convenient public transport.
Therefore, the best way to get there is by rental car. We rent a car in Hertz at the airport, and we recommend it.
Blog posts related to Things to do in Santana
Finally, are you thinking of visiting the island of Madeira? So, in that case, we take the liberty of suggesting that you read the following articles:
- Traveling to Madeira during the pandemic: cautions
- Quinta da Saraiva: accommodation tip in Madeira
- Cabo Girão skywalk over the highest Promontory in Europe
- Curral das Freiras: visit the central massif of Madeira and the best viewpoints
- Câmara de Lobos Things to do and see: the bay, the islet, the Churchill statue, and more!
- Ribeira Brava: making Madeira poncha in Serra D’Água
- Paul da Serra: visit the Biggest plateau in Madeira
- Madeira Natural Park: visit unique ecosystems in the world
- Madeira Laurissilva Forest: UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Porto Moniz: things to see and do on the North Coast of Madeira Island
- Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal: exotic passion fruit in Madeira
- Funchal Madeira: what to see, do, and tips for your itinerary
- Ponta de São Lourenço Trail: PR8, boat and lunch at Cais do Sardinha
- Machico Madeira: Whale Museum, Pico do Facho Viewpoint, and more
- Santana Madeira: see typical Madeiran houses
- Madeira Airport (FNC)
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