The Ponta do Sol Pier is a true treasure of Madeira island! Discover everything about Madeira Island Portugal. For a Guide to the island’s capital, read 10 Things To Do in Funchal.
Built by the Ponta do Sol Municipal Council between 1848 and 1850, designed by the engineer Tibério August Blanc.
Duke Maximiliano of Leuchtenberg was celebrated for having contributed a large part of the money towards its construction.
It is a highlight of the council next to Ponta do Sol Beach and a must-stop for visitors passing by. It is a viewpoint that extends into the sea, built on the rocks. We access via a stone bridge.
Map
- Coordinates: 32.678079, -17.104096
This is a well-known area for taking photos, which makes it even more fascinating. Looking closely, we can notice the old dungeon carved into the rocks, which has now been transformed into a peculiar restaurant.
Upon closer inspection, it is possible to see the old prison carved into the rock, now transformed into a restaurant, and the guardhouse in front. The contrast between the turquoise blue waters and the dark rocks is stunning.
We admire the view as the breeze refreshes our faces. Adventurous young swimmers take daring leaps from the highest part of the harbour infrastructure.
In addition to natural beauty, the Ponta do Sol Pier has a rich history. It was the second most important in Madeira. At that time, the means of communication between the villages and the island’s capital was by sea.
Things to do nearby:
Aside from the Ponta do Sol beach, there are many charming places to visit in the Ponta do Sol region.
A popular hike is the Levada do Moinho, which attracts many eager trekkers for a nature-immersed experience.
Along the trail, we can marvel at the profuse local flora and, at its conclusion, spring forms a small waterfall. Parking is available along the road a short distance above Ponta do Sol.
Another unmissable attraction in the region is the impressive Cascata dos Anjos in Ponta do Sol. It cascades with fervour down a sheer rock face close to the E.R.101 road, culminating majestically in the sea.
The water source that sustains it originates from a Levada. It is an incredible place to admire the force of nature.
If you seek a place to relax and bask in the sun, Calheta Beach is a true masterpiece. With sand imported from Morocco and protected by breakwaters, the waters are serene, providing a perfect environment for a beachside afternoon of repose.
Finally, an incredible experience that cannot be overlooked is the Fajã dos Padres Cable Car. It carries us to a small beach with pebbles next to a towering escarpment and affords a spellbinding sunset. It is a place that makes us feel as if we were transported centuries back, soothed by the sound of the waves.
