The Balcões Viewpoint is located in Ribeiro Frio, on Madeira Island. This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views over the Ribeira da Metade valley, the island’s central mountain range, and, on clear days, allows sighting of the highest peaks, such as Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo, as well as the Penha D’Águia rock formation.

Access: Access to the viewpoint is via the Vereda dos Balcões (PR11), a trail approximately 1.5 km long (one way), considered easy, with an average duration of 1.5 hours for the round trip. The trail begins at Regional Road 103 in Ribeiro Frio and follows the Levada da Serra do Faial, offering a pleasant walk through the lush Laurissilva forest, classified as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

Visitor Tips:

Bird Watching: The viewpoint is an excellent spot for observing Madeira’s endemic birds, such as the chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs madeirensis) and the Madeira firecrest (Regulus madeirensis). Bringing binoculars is recommended to better appreciate the local birdlife.

Recommended Gear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and consider bringing a raincoat, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the region.
Safety: Although the trail is easily accessible, it’s advisable to stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edges of the viewpoint.