Scenic Views of Madeira Photo Gallery

Portela is some 670 metres in altitude. It is often shrouded in cloud, even on the sunniest of days. However, it is well worth visiting for the walk down to Porto da Cruz. The trail follows an old trading track and offers splendid views of Eagle Rock and the bay at Porto da Cruz. As long as you don't mind walking down steep slopes, the trail is perfectly safe, with no sheer drops, and is one of the easier walks on Madeira. You may start the walk in the dank surrounds of Portela but, on all except the bleakest of days, Porto da Cruz will be awaiting you basking in sunshine. And, when you arrive, you can enjoy refreshments at the sea front cafe.

This tourist video perfectly portrays the dank and cloud-shrouded atmosphere that is likely to welcome you as you arrive in Portela. To find the old trading trail, walk up beyond the cafe/bar to where traders have their goods on display alongside the wall that overlooks the valley. As you look out towards the vistas below, walk along the road to your right. You will find a signpost that leads you on to the first part of the trail, downward to Porto da Cruz. The start of the trail is formed with old cobblestones and it double backs on itself. This is the steepest part of the trail and you need to be step carefully, especially if the conditions underfoot are wet and slippery.