The Miradouro do Farol da Ponta do Pargo is a unique place with a breathtaking view. For attractions in Madeira, read Things To Do Madeira. For a guide to Funchal, check out Unusual Things To Do In Funchal.
Framed by the turquoise-blue sea and the surrounding rock formations, it is an observation point that feeds the soul. The surrounding landscape is full of points of interest, such as the fascinating site of Achadas da Cruz.
- Coordinates: 32.813928, -17.262673
Getting here is easy, but one should be careful as we approach the majestic cliffs surrounding the area. Parking is free.
Address
Ponta da Vigia, Ponta do Pargo
Map
Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse
The Ponta do Pargo lighthouse stands tall and watchful over the ocean, perched atop the cliff. Built-in 1922, it boasts a small tower 14 meters high situated at an altitude of 312 meters.
It is an unmistakable landmark on the coast during the day, serving as a sentinel of the coastline, warning travellers of the dangers of the ocean and guiding them to a safe harbour.
As we climb to the top, a sensory experience is triggered. The windows open, and the sunlight brilliantly shines through the crystal of the lighthouse.
Lighthouse Museum
In addition to the imposing cliffs that house the lighthouse, there is also the opportunity to visit a museum that opened its doors this millennium (2001). The entrance, located on the side, features the history of all the lighthouses on the island.
Opening Hour:
The museum is open from Monday to Friday, from 09:30 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 16:30.
Phone:
291 882 125
At the museum exhibition, we can find items related to the lighthouses of Madeira, including photographs and historical documents.
Initially, the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse was equipped with an oil-powered light source and later electrified with rotating engines.
Portugal inaugurated its first lighthouse in the 16th century at Cape St. Vincent. There are currently eight lighthouses in the Madeira archipelago.
The oldest lighthouse was built during the Ptolemaic Kingdom between 280 and 247 BC. Considered one of the seven wonders of the world.
This lighthouse, which stood on the island of Pharos facing Alexandria, gave rise to the term Farol (lighthouse) in Portuguese.
Things to do nearby:
The lovers of incredible views have a definite destination on the west coast of Madeira. The Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse competes with other stunning lookouts, such as the nearby Fio Viewpoint, the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, the Garganta Funda Waterfall and the Véu da Noiva Viewpoint.
The plateau of Paúl da Serra, at an altitude of 1500 metres, offers fabulous panoramas. The Ponta do Sol Beach, the Calheta Beach and the Cascata dos Anjos Waterfall are must-see stops on the way to Funchal.
