THE HOTSPOT
Like Hawaii Yellowstone or Iceland, Madeira Island has it’s origins in a volcanic event know as an Hotspot.
However, the one we present to you today is a completely different one. It’s an outdoor activity an leisure hotspot.
The area we’re referring to is Ponta de São Lourenço, on the far-east end of the island. One of the many features that make it so unique it’s undoubtedly it’s natural value, being as it is a Special Conservation Zone, included in the Natura 2000 Network.
Here you can see a completely different landscape from anywhere else in the island (which also resembles a lot to the adjacent island of Porto Santo) no big plants can be found here, so that translates into a completely different type of green, one main feature is the presence of the ocean everywhere you look and the possibility to see the Desertas islands, and Porto Santo.
Even if there aren’t any big plants in sight, the natural value is still all there, with it’s several endemic species of fauna and flora. Besides that we have all the geological features present there…
Now that we’ve explained it a bit, let us show of things to do here:
Hiking: There’s a great and accessible hiking route (PR8) with stunning views that’ll take to the edge of the island. It’s simply a must do if you intend to go there. More info here
Coasteering: Due to the impressive coastline with it’s geological features, clear and tempered waters, this is unquestionably the best place to do it. If you’re lucky enough you might also see the world’s most rarest seal, the monk seal ( Monachus monachus), if you like adventure, then this is definitely your activity. For more info one Coasteering click here
Climbing: An astonishing scenery with the ocean by your feet, this is what you can expect when you’re climbing in this area. More info and bookings here
Kayaking: With Madeira on one side and the desertas island, you can cruise all the way from Machico to Ponta de São Lourenço, visiting bay’s, caves and exclusive beach’s.
Boat Trips: Wild life watching (whales, dolphins, turtles, etc), accessing the north side, returning from the hike or simply to go to the light house at the end of the island, are also the highlights of this area.
Bouldering: We’ve just written an article about the bouldering scene in Madeira island, and that article highlights the Ponta de Sao Lourenço, so the best thing is to check it out here!
Camping: In this area it’s also possible to camp out. It’s also included on one of our exclusive packages that’ll bee launched soon, but if you want to know more about it in first hand just send us an email 😉
Nature interpretation tours: On tours like this you get to know all the aspects from this area, either it being the geological features, the fauna, flora.
Other activities: Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Stand up Paddle, Trail Running, Off road