Situated on Madeira’s third highest peak, Juncal viewpoint (Miradouro do Juncal) is the best sunrise spot in Madeira. Here’s a complete guide.
How To Get To Juncal Viewpoint At Pico Do Arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is part of the dramatic mountain scenery of the interior of Madeira and not far from the capital city of Funchal.
By Car:
From Funchal, you can drive the 19km (12 miles) to the main viewpoint at Pico do Arieiro. Take the ER103 from Funchal and Pico do Arieiro will be signposted.
This will take approximately 30-40 minutes and you will wind your way through the beautiful Ribeiro Frio Park on the way.
You will find free parking at the main Pico do Arieiro viewpoint and the Juncal viewpoint is only a 2 minute walk from here.
By Tour:
There is no public transport to get to this destination, so if you have not got a car you could get a taxi, especially if there is a group of you which would keep the cost down, or join one of the tours.
There are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
One of the more reasonably priced day tours, that takes in Pico Do Arieiro, is Madeira: Best of the East Tour from Funchal.
Juncal Viewpoint Entrance Fee
It is free to visit this viewpoint.
Juncal Viewpoint Opening Times
Open every day, all year round.
Best Time To Visit Juncal Viewpoint + Tips
It’s one of the best viewpoints in Madeira. So as with any popular tourist attraction it can get quite busy, therefore early or late in the day are usually the less crowded times. (Apart from sunrise!)
Madeira is a year round destination with its sub-tropical climate. However, this viewpoint will definitely be busier during the summer months when more tourists visit the island.
It can get very hot in the afternoon in the summer months and there is no shade in this area so be prepared.
Equally, early mornings during the winter months at Juncal viewpoint, at over 1800m, will be pretty chilly so dress appropriately.
I would definitely recommend trying to get to Juncal viewpoint for sunrise as this is when the lighting and scenery is at its most breathtaking.
Sunrise is not until about 7.30am in the summer in Madeira, so it really is doable!
Make sure you don’t forget your camera as you could get some really unique photos from above the clouds.
What To Pack
What To Expect At Juncal Viewpoint
Juncal Viewpoint At Sunrise
Views from the main viewpoint are amazing but I would definitely recommend taking the short walk to the Juncal viewpoint as they are even better from here!
On a clear day, from Juncal viewpoint (Miradouro do Juncal) you will have stunning panoramic views across the island’s central mountain range with its jagged peaks and lush green valleys as well as views of the ocean to both sides.
Also, this viewpoint is famous as being the best sunrise spot in Madeira. So much so that, if the weather is good, many tourists will flock here to stand above a blanket of clouds to watch the first rays of sunlight come up on the horizon.
Visiting Juncal viewpoint at Pico Do Arieiro was definitely one of my favourite things to do in Madeira.
The Main Viewpoint At Pico Do Arieiro
Pico de Arieiro is the most accessible of Madeira’s mountain peaks as it has a road taking you up to the summit where parking and facilities are available.
Thus, along with the stunning views, this makes it one of the top tourist attractions in Madeira.
Once parked at the main Pico de Arieiro viewing area you will see the large dome of the observatory as well as a restaurant, souvenir shop and toilet facilities.
There are steps up to the main viewpoint and also a stairlift for those unable to climb these stairs.
In addition, this is also the starting point for one of the hikes to the island’s highest point of Pico Ruivo at 1,862 metres.
Where To Stay In Madrid
Luxury – The Vine Hotel
Recently awarded as Europe’s Leading Design Hotel, the luxurious Vine Hotel is located in Funchal.
It offers a fusion restaurant with stunning views, a Wine Therapy Spa, access to the fitness centre and a rooftop infinity pool.
Each room features an LCD TV with in-room movies, free WiFi and a laptop-size safe.
The roof terrace sports a heated infinity pool, massage facilities as well as a 20 yard hot tub, with views of Fort São João and the mountains.
Mid-Budget – Hotel Baia Azul
The newly renovated 4-star Hotel Baía Azul is ideally situated a 4-minute walk from Funchal’s beachfront.
It offers 3 swimming pools, 3 restaurants, a Spa and a sun deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the gardens.
The hotel has a total of 215 bedrooms with sea-inspired decor. All rooms come with an en suite bathroom, bath amenities and a hairdryer.
Not only that, but a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar, a kettle and a safe deposit box too.
Free WiFi access is provided in all rooms and common areas.
Budget – Funchal Apartments – City View
Funchal Apartments – City View is venue is set in Se district, around a 10 minute walk from Funchal center, and features a terrace with the cathedral view.
The property includes free WiFi, plus express check-in and check-out.
There is also a shared kitchen, ATM and currency exchange for guests.
All rooms include a wardrobe, a desk and a shared bathroom.
For more places to stay in Madeira, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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