The Eagle Rock near Faial on Madeira

Northern Madeira is characterised by dramatic cliffs, overgrown with evergreen laurel forests, and dominated by the rugged and craggy mountain massifs around Pico Ruivo or Pico do Arieiro. In the few places with easy access to the sea or less steep slopes, settlements have formed to cultivate the fertile soil on terraced fields – growing wine, vegetables, potatoes, corn, beans, or onions. Faial is overlooked by the steep flanks of the “Eagle Rock”, a landmark of the north coast.

The old coastal roads – narrow, winding, and adventurous – connect the villages along scenic routes. However, they are increasingly being supplemented by new expressways, which have been driven through the coastal rocks in long tunnels, allowing for faster connections.

More pictures in the Madeira Gallery