PR 8 - Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

This 3.6 km moderate peninsula trail offers Madeira's most distinctive landscape: a semi-arid volcanic environment with low vegetation and seabird colonies. Located on the island's eastern end near Caniçal, the basalt-and-limestone peninsula benefits from a semi-arid climate and northern wind exposure, creating stark contrasts with Madeira's typically lush vegetation. The trail is classified as a Partial Nature Reserve, home to rare endemic plants and diverse fauna including one of the region's largest seabird colonies and protected species like shearwaters and Bulwer's petrels. Hikers may observe monk seals in their natural habitat and end their 2.5-hour walk at Cais do Sardinha for a well-deserved swim. A 1-euro donation per person supports trail maintenance.