Madeira: Ponta de São Lourenço Sunrise Hike & Picnic with Pickup

Summary

Sunrise hike on Madeira’s wild peninsula with local guide and seaside picnic

You’ll start before sunrise on Madeira’s eastern tip, hiking the Ponta de São Lourenço trail with a small group and local guide. Expect rocky paths, wild ocean views, and quiet moments as daylight breaks over the cliffs. After reaching Casa do Sardinha, relax with your picnic or take a swim if you’re brave — it’s all included with hotel pickup and drop-off.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so awake before dawn, but there we were — shuffling out of the van near Ponta de São Lourenço, still rubbing sleep from our eyes. Our guide, Tiago, handed out headlamps and grinned like he’d done this a hundred times (he probably has). The air was salty and cool, almost sharp. I remember thinking it smelled a bit like wet stone and seaweed — not unpleasant, just different from home. We started walking in that strange half-light where everything feels quieter than usual.

The trail is rocky — not hard if you’re used to walking, but you do have to watch your step. Tiago pointed out these tiny purple flowers growing between the stones; he called them “pride of Madeira,” which made me smile for some reason. Sometimes the wind picked up and you’d hear nothing but waves crashing far below. At one point I tried to say “bom dia” to another hiker passing by (Li laughed when I tried my Portuguese — fair enough). The sun came up behind us slowly, lighting up the cliffs in this weird orange-pink that looked almost fake. I still think about that view.

We reached Casa do Sardinha after a couple hours — honestly, my legs were ready for a break by then. There’s this little house where we unpacked our picnics (Tiago had reminded us to bring food), and some folks went for a swim. The water looked freezing but clear as glass; I dipped my toes in and chickened out. Sitting there with bread and cheese, watching the light shift over the Atlantic… it felt peaceful in a way I can’t quite explain.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike Ponta de São Lourenço trail

• Drive through the airport
• Walk Ponta de São Lourenço trail
• Visit Reception Center exhibition
• Relax and picnic at Casa do Sardinha
• Optional refreshing swim

Top questions

How long is the Ponta de São Lourenço sunrise hike?

The hike is about 8 km round trip and takes roughly 3-4 hours to complete.

Is hotel pickup included for this Madeira hike?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from Caniço and Funchal areas.

What should I bring for the sunrise hike?

You should bring water and food for your picnic at Casa do Sardinha; dress appropriately for weather.

Is swimming possible during the tour?

Yes, after hiking you can swim near Casa do Sardinha if you wish.

How difficult is the Ponta de São Lourenço trail?

The trail is moderately challenging due to rocky terrain and some steep sections; moderate fitness is recommended.

Are guides certified for this Madeira hiking tour?

Yes, your guide is certified and knowledgeable about local nature.

What’s the group size for this sunrise hike?

The group size is small — maximum 8 people per booking.

Are children allowed on this tour?

The minimum age is 8 years old for participants.

What’s included

Your day includes certified mountain guide service, hotel pickup and drop-off from Caniço or Funchal in an air-conditioned vehicle, all activities along the Ponta de São Lourenço trail with plenty of time at Casa do Sardinha for your own picnic or even a swim before heading back home together.