Drive Madeira’s eastern spine in a convertible: sea-scraped cliffs, laurel forests, traditional Santana houses and a summit at 1,818 m. This seven-hour loop combines coastal photos, short walks and local cuisine with the freedom of an open-top road trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The cabriolet top folds back and the Atlantic air moves through the cabin as the coast unfurls—sheer cliffs plunging into blue, terraced slopes blotted with eucalyptus and hydrangeas, and a road that climbs like a ribbon up the island's spine.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approximately 7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly driving with short paved or gravel walks at viewpoints
Wildlife
History
Madeira's eastern settlements grew around 15th-century Portuguese colonization, with coastal towns later becoming centers for sugar, wine and rum production.
Conservation
Laurisilva fragments are protected as UNESCO sites—stick to roads and marked paths to avoid trampling endemic plants and accelerating erosion.
Reserve your spot on the East Breathtaking Cabriolet Road Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start Early
Leave Funchal by 8:00 AM to avoid summit cloud cover and to secure parking at popular viewpoints.
Layer for the Summit
Temperatures at Pico do Arieiro can be 8–12°C cooler than the coast—bring a warm, windproof layer.
Watch the Road
Coastal and mountain sections have tight hairpins and occasional single-lane stretches—drive cautiously and yield where indicated.
Cash for Small Stops
Some rural cafes and craft stalls prefer cash for snacks or quick purchases—keep small bills on hand.
Windbreaker or light shell
Protects against gusts during open-top driving and cooler summit conditions.
spring
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Sun is strong on exposed coastal roads and at altitude—protect eyes and skin.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Useful for short coastal walks and uneven viewpoint paths like Ponta de São Lourenço.
Camera or binoculars
Capture coastal cliffs, seabirds and panoramic mountain views from miradouros.