Fanal Forest
Fanal
An ancient laurel forest on a plateau, where gnarled centuries-old trees appear through thick mist, earning it the name “magical forest.”
Fanal lies on a plateau about 1,100 m above sea level in northwest Madeira. Across the meadows stand hundreds of years old laurel trees (Til), their trunks twisted and their branches covered in moss. When fog drifts in, the scene is dreamlike, making it a mecca for photographers, and herds of free-roaming cattle often graze the grass. The woods are part of the Laurisilva of Madeira UNESCO World Heritage site. Entry is free. You can only reach it by car, about 20 minutes from Porto Moniz and about 1 hour from Funchal. The mountain roads have many bends, so drive slowly in fog.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Seixal Beach
- Véu da Noiva Viewpoint
- Levada das 25 Fontes & Risco (PR6)
- Porto Moniz Natural Pools
- Achadas da Cruz Cable Car
- Calheta Beach
- São Vicente Caves
- Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse