ER 105 Scenic Route on Madeira
Exploring the ER 105 Scenic Route on Madeira
The ER 105 scenic route (formally called ER 110) on Madeira weaves a spellbinding path from the Paul da Serra plateau to the rugged northwestern edge. Roughly 30 km long, it’s more than a road—it’s a journey through highland mist, hidden viewpoints, and lush valleys.
1. The Paul da Serra Plateau
The route begins on the flat, windswept expanse of Paul da Serra, sitting around 1,500 m above sea level. It offers panoramic views and a rare calm among Madeira’s mountains. The open road here is easy to drive.
Fog is common, especially early morning—creating a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere such as frequently seen in Fanal, with its centuries-old laurel trees shaped by wind.
2. Lombo do Mouro – A Hidden Gem
Along the ER 105, you’ll reach Lombo do Mouro. This viewpoint isn’t crowded but offers impressive views of rolling green hills dotted with grazing cows. Heather sweeps the landscape year-round.
3. Wind Turbine Vista
Further along, you’ll encounter a wind farm nestled into the highlands. From here, panoramic vistas stretch across valleys and ridges. This offbeat section even earned a comparison to “Madeira’s Route 66.” This is how one official Madeira Tour Guide called it! Check it out and see if you agree?
4. Bica da Cana Viewpoint
As the road descends from the plateau, you arrive at Bica da Cana. It offers a crystalline view of deep valleys and mountain peaks like Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro.
5. Levada das 25 Fontes / Risco Trail
One of Madeira’s most iconic hikes begins near ER 105 at Rabaçal. The Levada das 25 Fontes leads to multiple spring fountains and the impressive Risco waterfall, all nestled within a verdant laurel forest canyon. Start very early to avoid crowds.
6. Casa do Elias – Overlook into the Gorge
Tucked off the main road is an abandoned house called Casa do Elias. It overlooks dramatic mountain ravines—a quiet, almost cinematic spot that’s still relatively undiscovered.
Local Tip from the Island
“You should definitely take this route; ‘beautiful’ is not even a word, to describe it.”
— A traveler praising ER 105 on Reddit (Reddit)
This captures the feeling of driving ER 105—its beauty defies easy description.
Quick Reference Table
| Stop Maps | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Paul da Serra Plateau | Wide open vistas, mist, unique flora |
| Lombo do Mouro | Hidden viewpoint, peaceful, rolling green hills |
| Wind Farm Vista | Dramatic scenic vista, “Madeira’s Route 66” feel |
| Bica da Cana | Sweeping mountain views of highest peaks |
| Levada das 25 Fontes | Valley hike, multiple falls, lush laurel forest |
| Casa do Elias | Abandoned house with gorgeous panorama |
| Coastal walk in Ribeira da Janela, Seixal or Sao Vicente | Oceanwalk, canyon views, touristy setting |
Why This Route Stands Out
- Diverse landscapes: From plateau mystique to highland forests and jagged coastline.
- Hidden stops: Find solitude and scenery away from the tourist masses.
- Accessible yet remote: Well-paved but with many offbeat escapes.
Travel Tips
- Start early if you want to make a detour to catch Fanal in mist and/or to hike before the heat or crowds arrive.
- Check road status, especially in winter—some sections may close due to rockfalls.
- Bring layers—weather shifts quickly between sunny plateau and foggy forest.
Final Thoughts
The ER 105 on Madeira is a road trip like no other. It offers dramatic views, moody forests, hiking trails, and hidden perspectives. Whether you’re chasing solitude or craving a cinematic island drive, this route delivers in spades.
The ER 105 is the new name of the old ER 110 road. Some maps may not have updated the name yet.
