Pico do Facho

Porto Santo's highest point, with the whole island laid out below.

View over Porto Santo's beach and hills from the Pico do Facho summit
Photo: Vitor Oliveira from Torres Vedras, PORTUGAL · CC BY-SA 2.0

At 517 m, the old signal peak gives a full view of the island's beach, dunes and volcanic hills, and across to Madeira on a clear day.

Getting up

A narrow paved road climbs almost to the summit, with a short walk at the end. Historically, fires were lit here to warn of approaching pirate ships — facho means torch.

Late afternoon gives the best light along the beach.

Local tips

  • Hire a car or buggy for the day — buses do not come up here.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Catamaran sailing along the Madeira coast at sunset
    3 hours Funchal Marina

    Sunset Catamaran Cruise

    Sail the south coast at golden hour from Funchal marina — a relaxed catamaran cruise with a swim stop and the chance of dolphins along the way.

  • Sunrise, Sunset & Moonlight private Sailing Cruises in Madeira in Madeira
    3 hours Madeira 5.0(12)

    Sunrise, Sunset & Moonlight private Sailing Cruises in Madeira

    Since 2001, we've been cruising the waters of Madeira and Porto Santo in all sorts of nifty vessels, from dinghies to windsurfing boards and catamarans.

  • The East Tour-Pico do Areeiro,Santana & Pico do Facho Small Group in Madeira
    7 hours Santana 4.9(264)

    The East Tour-Pico do Areeiro,Santana & Pico do Facho Small Group

    One of the most ancient trips the island has to offer, taking you through historic places and imposing landmarks.

  • West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups in Madeira
    7 hours Porto Moniz 4.9(372)

    West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups

    Visit some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer, this is one of the most complete tours you can do. From the Southern coast, through the centre plateau arriving to the northern coast. This tour stops in.

  • Fanal e Porto Moniz: O Lado Icónico in Madeira
    7 hours Porto Moniz 4.8(103)

    Fanal e Porto Moniz: O Lado Icónico

    Discover Madeira’s most iconic side on a journey through the island’s most spectacular viewpoints, featuring the magical Fanal Forest and the famous Porto Moniz natural pools.

  • Arieiro Peak, Santo Serra, Cristo Rei in Open Roof 4x4 Experience in Madeira
    4.5 hours Madeira 4.9(132)

    Arieiro Peak, Santo Serra, Cristo Rei in Open Roof 4x4 Experience

    Step into the wonderful world of Madeira as our journey starts at Largo do Miranda, where you have beautiful views over Funchal and Desertas islands.

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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