Ninho da Manta | Viewpoint | Santana (Pico do Areeiro)
Briefly
Located near the beginning of the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro, this viewpoint offers one of the most breathtaking views of Madeira’s Central Mountain Range. It is named “Buzzard’s Nest” (Ninho da Manta) after the birds of prey frequently seen soaring above the deep valley of Fajã da Nogueira below.
Basic Information
Location: Miradouro do Ninho da Manta
Access: Short hike (10-15 min) from the Pico do Areeiro parking lot via PR1.
Time: 30–45 minutes (including the walk).
Difficulty: Easy (steep stone steps).
Parking: Pico do Areeiro Main Parking
Best season: All year round (Sunrise is world-famous).
How to Get There
Drive to the summit of Pico do Areeiro. Start walking on the PR1 trail (Vereda do Areeiro). After about 500 meters, you will find the wooden and stone platform on the right side of the path.
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Important to Know
- Altitude: You are at over 1800m. Even if it’s hot on the coast, it can be freezing and windy here; bring a jacket.
- Vertigo: The viewpoint juts out over a massive drop. It is fenced and safe, but very high.
- Sunrise Tip: This is the most iconic spot for sunrise photography above the clouds. Arrive at least 45 minutes before dawn.
Similar Viewpoints
- Pico Ruivo Viewpoint: The highest point of the island, reached via the same mountain range.
- Miradouro da Eira do Serrado: For a similar dramatic look into a deep mountain valley.
- Pico do Areeiro: The main peak area just a short walk away.
Visited Ninho da Manta? Share your photos and your thoughts in the comments! 