ÁGUIA PENHA
Read moreThe picturesque landscape between Faial and Porto da Cruz dominated by Penha d'Águia (Eagle Rock), a large green rock, is a bestseller in Madeira's postcards. A narrow road leads there, offering beautiful views over the valley. On the road (cul-de-sac) is the Galé restaurant and along the building is a popular levada for walkers. If you follow the direction "Guindaste", you will reach a mirador (superb view of the jagged coastline). For experienced walkers, the ascent of the Eagle Rock is a real challenge!
FOZ DA RIBEIRA DO FAIAL
Read moreA natural swimming pool has been set up at the bottom of the village, at the "Foz da Ribeira do Faial". If it is less attractive than that of Porto da Cruz, its environment is more striking: a tiny bay with black sand, closed by pebbles. We can try to find a curious geological phenomenon there: basaltic oranges, perfectly regular prisms formed from the cooling of a lava sink. Don't expect a show like the Giant Carriageway in Northern Ireland.