New Coastal Hiking Trail Opens in Porto Moniz

The northwest coast of Madeira has a spectacular new attraction for hikers and nature lovers. A newly completed 8-kilometer coastal trail now connects the charming town of Porto Moniz with the village of Seixal, offering some of the most dramatic ocean views anywhere on the island.

Unlike the island's famous levada walks, this coastal trail follows the rugged Atlantic shoreline, where volcanic cliffs plunge dramatically into the sea. Hikers will experience the raw power of the ocean, with waves crashing against ancient lava formations and sea spray filling the air.

The trail passes through several distinct landscapes: terraced vineyards clinging to steep hillsides, dense pockets of native vegetation, and exposed headlands with 360-degree panoramas. On clear days, the neighboring island of Porto Santo is visible on the eastern horizon.

One of the trail's highlights is access to Porto Moniz's famous natural swimming pools, formed by volcanic rock formations that have been shaped by the Atlantic over millennia. These pools offer safe swimming in crystal-clear seawater, surrounded by dramatic black lava rocks.

The trail is rated as moderate difficulty and takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as some sections can be slippery when wet. The trail is well-marked with signposts and information boards at key viewpoints.