Bica da Cana: a viewpoint above the Paúl da Serra

Elevation: 60 m / Lenght: 1,5 km / Time: 1 hr
Visit rate: 3/5 / Rating: 3/5

The Bica da Cana viewpoint offers beautiful views into the island's interior, including São Vicente, the highest peaks Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro, and especially the vast Paúl da Serra plateau, where Madeira's wind turbines are located. It is the largest and only extensive plateau on the island, sitting at an altitude of around 1,500 meters. Virtually all of the island's wind energy is generated here. In good weather, you can see both the northern and southern coasts from the viewpoint at the same time, which is quite a rare sight. 

Driving along the long, straight road across the plateau, where cows often wander freely, is an experience in itself. The open, windy, and at times rugged landscape feels more like Iceland than Madeira. Around 8:30 in the morning, it can easily be as cold as 4°C, while by around 3 p.m. it can turn warm enough for just a shirt if there's no wind. You really never know how to dress, which is pretty much the case across all of Madeira.

Near the plateau, you'll find the 25 Fontes and Levada do Risco trails, both covered in separate articles. Another well-known spot in the area is Fanal Forest, an ancient laurel forest, which was the only major place on the island we didn't actually visit, we just drove past it. It consists of a few fenced off trees, muddy paths, and requires advance booking to enter. It simply didn't feel like a must see for us, but if misty, atmospheric trees are your thing, then it might be worth a visit.

Week on Madeira for 2 (7 nights)                                                                                               Flights (Smartwings): 820,-                                                                                                               Car rental (Sixt): 370,-                                                                                                   Accommodation (Booking): 570,-                                                                                           Spending: 610,-                                                                                                                               Total: 2 370,- EUR