Attraction Guide: Cabo Girão viewpoint, Câmara de Lobos, Portugal

Cabo Girão viewpoint Guide

Cabo Girão: Europe's Highest Sea Cliff Skywalk Guide

Prepare to be amazed at Cabo Girão, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs, located on the beautiful island of Madeira, Portugal. This dramatic promontory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the charming towns of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal, and the stunning coastline. The highlight of Cabo Girão is its suspended glass platform, a skywalk that extends out over the cliff edge, providing an unforgettable and slightly nerve-wracking experience. Cabo Girão has been a significant landmark for centuries, serving as a navigational point for sailors and a strategic location for defense. Its name, meaning "Cape Turn," is believed to refer to the point where ships would turn to head towards Funchal. The area has also been historically important for agriculture, with terraced fields clinging to the steep slopes below the cliff. These fields, known as "fajãs," are a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the local farmers. The main activity at Cabo Girão is, of course, enjoying the spectacular views from the viewpoint and the skywalk. Capture stunning photos of the surrounding landscape and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. For the adventurous, paragliding and base jumping are popular activities, offering a unique perspective of the cliff and the coastline. While there aren't restaurants directly at the viewpoint, nearby Câmara de Lobos is famous for its "poncha," a traditional Madeiran drink made with rum, honey, lemon juice, and other fruit juices.

Transportation

You can reach Cabo Girão by car, taxi, or bus. Several bus lines connect Funchal and Câmara de Lobos to Cabo Girão. For example, bus number 109 from Funchal will take you there. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.