THE PR8 SAO LOURENCO MADEIRA: AN EASY AND BEAUTIFUL HIKE IN MADEIRA.
On our first day of trail hunting in Madeira, we tackled the PR8. A beauitful and rugged coastal hike along the Ponta de São Lourenço. A peninsular, which is a geologically outstanding area of Madeira.
This hike is one of the easiest in Madeira and we highly recommend it for a short, but sweet, couple of hours.
The PR8 São Lourenço Madeira: The Low Down
To get you started, here are some key facts about the PR8 in Madeira. We provide more detail in the post below.
THE LOW DOWN
Distance: 4.6 miles/ 7.4km
Difficulty: Easy
Average Time: 2 hrs 30 to 3 hours
Incline: 1,350ft
Start point: To the east of the island – here.
Route Type: Out & Back
Public Transport friendly: Yes
Top Tip: Arrive early if you want a parking spot near to the trail head, otherwise park further back along the road.
What is the PR8 Madeira?
There are lots of hikes to choose from in Madeira. The main hikes are all called “PR” and followed by a unique number. The PR8 is a coastal walk found to the East of the Madeira. The trail winds its way along a peninsular, specifically the Ponta de São Lourenço. This point (or ponta) was named so by the explorer Goncalves Zarco in 1419. Quite why he called it São Lourenço,I am not sure. But I do know that it is very beautiful.
Why walk the PR8 in Madeira?
If you’re looking for a relatively short hike, but with views that pack a punch, then this is a great one.
We opted to walk this hike on our first day in Madeira, having been urged by John’s parents who had visited the island before, to make sure we absolutely did this hike! We thought we ought to make good on this recommendation. But, we also chose this hike as it’s a shorter and easier hike, so a good option to ease ourselves in.
Ease of walking aside, this is an enthralling hike as it trails along a peninsular to the east of Madeira. As you drive from Funchal, you can see the land jutting out. It’s hard to believe that there could be a hiking trail leading all the way to the very end of the peninsular – quite literally, where the land meets the sea. As you weave your way along the trail, amidst the undulating terrain, the views either side are simply spectacular.
From interesting rock formations to the water crashing to the cliffs. Waves moving back and forth to reveal black sandy coves. In the summer, there are some swimming spots, where one could easily while away a few hours. This is a popular and busy hike, and there were moments when the crowds bothered us, as did the noisy drones being used by a few hikers! But amongst it all, we found solace and a quiet place for a picnic overlooking the ocean.
What to expect on the PR8/ São Lourenço hike?
This is an easy hike, in comparison with hikes across the island. However, there is some uneven terrain and parts of the walk require sure footedness.
The PR8 is one of the most popular routes on the island and it does get crowded, particularly in the middle of the day. We would not recommend this hike if you don’t like being amongst a crowd, or you’re looking for something “away from it all.”
💲Do note, there is now a small gestural 1 Euro fee to pay to access the walk as it is on a protected national park area. This can be paid online via a QR code. But, in case you don’t have signal on your phone, you can pay before (or after) you walk the PR8 on this link here.
Is the PR8 one of the easiest hikes in Madeira?
As far as hikes go in Madeira, the PR8 is one of the easiest routes you will find. It is a popular hike, walked by many tourists each day, many of whom do not hike regularly. You do need a relatively good level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes however.
Most the terrain is fairly even, with a few very small uneven sections. The route is also pretty safe. We saw many families walking, including some with babies in carriers too.
Ostensibly, the hike looks challenging due to the 1,350ft climb. However, the majority of the ascent is right at the end to reach the peak. This is the most challenging part of the hike as it is not only steep, but also very uneven. There are metal fences to help walkers climbing and descending, but they are a little worn away and a bit spikey to put your hands safely on, in some parts.
If you are not an experienced walker, or you are concerned about your fitness, then you can skip the end section easily. Just stop at the cafe, then return from there. You won’t miss out on too much!
The biggest challenge to walking the PR8/ Ponta de São Lourenço is the heat. There is no shade from the sun at all, so if you want to avoid the heat then do not walk the PR8 on a hot day. Alternatively, head out for sunrise or in early evening before dark to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Ponta de São Lourenço sunrise
As the peninsular is to the East of the island, you can expect spectacular sun rises. For this reason, many people choose to walk the PR8 at sunrise. We recommend parking around one hour before sun rise to get to a point at which you can see the sun coming up over the water.
Ponta de São Lourenço form Funchal
The trail head to reach Vereda de Ponta de São Lourenço is 14 miles from the centre of Funchal. There are a few transport options to get there.
Ponta de São Lourenço bus
The PR8 is one of the easiest hikes to get to in Madeira by public transport. Buses run from Funchal approximately once an hour to a bus stop very near to the trail head. The bus is operated by the bus operator SAM.
Check up to date times and bus stops on the bus operator website here.
Driving to Ponta de São Lourenço
The drive to the Vereda de São Lourenço takes around 35 minutes from Funchal centre. It is a straightforward drive, mainly on the highway. You can find the trail head for the PR8 here on Google Maps.
There is a car park at the trail head, but it gets extremely busy. You may get a space there, but if you see cars parked along the road on your way, this is a good indicator that the car park is full. We suggest pulling up as soon as you see a space.
Tours to Ponta de São Lourenço
There are tours to the Ponta de São Lourenço hike running daily in Madeira. Both private and group options are available. This includes transport and a guided hike experience.
GUIDED HIKING TOUR – PR8 PONTA DE SAO LOURENCO
✅ Transport to / from Funchal
✅ Guide for the hike
✅ Full day activity with time to relax during the hike
Top tips for hiking the PR8/ São Lourenço
Based on our experience of hiking the PR8 recently (March 2024), we have the following advice for anyone planning to walk the route:
- If you are driving, be prepared to park some way back from the trail head at peak times. You’ll notice other cars doing the same. Pull over when you see a space rather than driving to the end where it can be tricky to turn around.
- There is no shade on this walk – avoid the heat of the day if you are concerned about that.
- Wear appropriate walking clothing – jeans are not going to be comfortable (or leather trousers – unbelievably we saw one brave soul attempting it.)
- Wear appropriate walking shoes – trainers or hiking shoes. Sandals will not cut it.
- There are toilets – one at the start, one at the cafe at the end of the trail before it loops back. The cafe toilet costs 1 Euro and the one at the trail head 2.
- There is a cafe for refreshments, but you can also pack your own and enjoy a picnic with a view!
- In summer months, there is a beach that you could go down to and enjoy a lazy few hours.
- It is easy to navigate, especially when there are lots of people around. But, if you want to download the trail on a map, find it on All Trails.
- Finally, remember a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. We got through 1.5 litres each on the walk.
10 best hikes in Madeira
There is an abundance of trails in Madeira, from mountain hikes, to coastal and the famous Levada hikes.
You’ve probably heard of the Pico to Pico hike, the PR1. This is the most famous hike on Madeira, but there is so much more to see for avid hikers than the PR1.
If you want to find out about the 10 best hikes in Madeira, click here.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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