Fanal

"Located between the Seixal and Ribeira da Janela mountains, Fanal is a vast forested area that invites you to peacefully enjoy the best that Nature has to offer. This idyllic space is one of the most emblematic places in the municipality of Porto Moniz, housing a landscape heritage of great beauty. In Fanal, the spotlight is unquestionably given to the centuries-old tis (Ocotea foetens) forest — these specimens date back to a time before the discovery of the archipelago. They are part of the indigenous Laurissilva forest, which here is expressed in a state of conservation that impresses with its vivacity. Between viewpoints, a leisure space with a public barbecue and a winter lagoon born from an ancient crater, there are many natural corners of the Fanal Forest in Madeira where you can be amazed, have fun, walk or just relax (this area is, in fact, classified as a Rest and Silence Reserve by the Madeira Natural Park). Here you will also find hiking trails that offer the opportunity to contemplate this vast and rich forest cover. Therefore, you can start different paths and levadas in Fanal, such as PR13 - Vereda do Fanal or PR14 - Levada dos Cedros. Come and be surprised by the richness of Fanal."

"The Fanal Forest on Madeira is truly a magical place, often called as a fairytale forest. It’s located on a small plateau filled with damp green meadows, perfect for grazing cattle, and ancient trees of the original laurel forest. I recommend visiting and walking through this area as it has several hiking trails. Fanal is particularly popular among photographers. Situated at an altitude of around 1,100 meters, which is often above the clouds on Madeira, it offers magical scenery perfect for stunning photos."