Ponta de São Lourenço

Ponta de São Lourenço

Ponta de São Lourenço is the easternmost point of Madeira Island, a rugged and scenic headland that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Located approximately 10 km east of the town of Caniçal, this natural wonder is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the island's unique geology and diverse flora and fauna. From a geological perspective, Ponta de São Lourenço is a remarkable site, featuring a unique combination of volcanic and sedimentary rocks that provide valuable insights into the island's formation. The headland's dramatic landscape is characterized by towering cliffs, hidden coves, and secluded beaches, which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion and weathering. The highest point of the headland is Pico do Furado. There is a path that takes about an hour to walk from the entrance of the headland to the top. The geology of the promontory is made up of pyroclastic rocks as well as basalt dykes and some eroded coastlines. It is about 100,000 years old, dating back to the late Pleistocene. The headland's unique microclimate, which is influenced by the trade winds and the Gulf Stream, supports a diverse array of flora, including succulents, euphorbias, and wildflowers. In addition, Ponta de São Lourenço has been recognized by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area for its seabird colonies, including the largest colony of Caspian Gulls in Madeira, together with the islets of Ilhéuda Cevada and Ilhéu do Farol at the eastern end.