The Chapel Viewpoint at Cabo in Madeira
The viewpoint near the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte in Cabo is one of the least known in Madeira.
From the exposed viewing platform on the headland you can gaze along the rugged western coastline.
The starkness of the view is breathtaking and the fact that there will most likely be no other people in sight will add to the atmosphere of beautiful isolation.
The walk to the headland is short in itself, but you can incorporate it into various options of the nearby levada walk.
Or, maybe, you just want to stop off at the point on your journey to Port Moniz?
Either way, try to make sure that you don't miss this little known miradouro, the views will not disappoint.
Capela Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte
The Capela Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte is a simple building with its origins dating from the 17th century.
It is much like many other chapels to be found in Madeira. This one is dedicated to Our Lady of the Good Death.
It has a three arched porch, where additional seating is provided. Inside the Annunciation is depicted in ornate artwork.
Alongside the chapel there is ample parking space and you are likely to find cattle grazing in the surrounding fields.
To the front is a small, walled square with an entrance that leads down to the track that takes you to the viewpoint.
The Viewpoint or Miradouro
The viewpoint is reached at the end of a rough, concrete track. There are open fields to either side of the pathway, and you are likely to pass the odd cow or two - usually tethered to stop them wandering off the edge of the cliff.
At the end is your goal, or, as the locals like to refer to such vantage points, the miradouro.
The viewing platform is not much in itself. It comprises of a small area surrounded by metal fencing.
However, the beauty is to be had in the views that can be gained from here.
As you arrive, you suddenly realise that you are now standing at the top of a sheer, coastal drop.To either side of you, the coastline gives way to the sea shore far below. Further in the distance, the rugged, volcanic coastal landscape rises majestically.
The platform is exposed to the weather. This, coupled with it's remoteness, and the fact that few tourist venture this way, creates a feeling of desolation. If you are so incline, you can imagine just how the first settlers in Madeira must have felt as they stood on the cliff tops and looked out to sea.
The walk from the chapel to the miradouro and back should take you no more than 15 minutes. There is only a gentle incline on the return journey and there are no unprotected sheep drops. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy a sense of adventure, but don't wish to undertake a fully fledged hike or levada walk.
Nearby Levada Walks
If you are feeling energetic, you can incorporate your visit to the Capela Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte miradouro into a levada walk. There are two main options.
When travelling by car, park by the Restaurante A Carreta on the ER101 (see road directions below).
Walk on passed the restaurant, after a few minutes, you will see a dirt track leading off up a slope to your right. Turn up here and you soon join up with the Levada Nova. Turn left along here, heading in a westerly direction.
Another few minutes walk through the surrounding forest brings you to a water tank at the end of the levada channel. Turn left and walk down a steep road into Cabo, it's chapel and the viewpoint.
For the return journey it is best to retrace your steps. The round trip should take you about 40 minutes.
Another option is to undertake the circular walk from Ponta do Pargo to Cabo and back again. This option will take you around 4 or more hours and you should prepare accordingly.
The Chapel Viewpoint at Cabo Photos
Concrete path from the chapel to the miradouro
Desolate coastline views from the viewpoint
Surrounding cattle
Cabo Miradouro Video
This video gives a 2 minute introduction to the viewing platform just down from the Chapel Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte in Cabo, Western Madeira. It shows you the path to the belvedere and then delights in some of the panoramic views to be seen from the elevated headland.
Road Directions
By Car
Cabo is situated just off the ER101, Madeira's main road in the south.
From Funchal, you want to join the motorway - via Rapida - heading west toward Ribeira Brava.
At Ribeira Brava, keep on the ER101 and follow the signs to Ponta do Sol and Calheta.
If you want to break your journey with a stop, Calheta is a good choice. It is a substantial coastal town with plenty of facilities and an imported, golden sand beach.
Passed Calheta, remain on the ER101 and head toward Ponta do Pargo. The road here is very winding.
About 2km after passing Ponta do Pargo keep a lookout for the small Restaurante A Carreta on your right.The turning to Cabo is on your left, down a minor road, not long after you pass the restaurant.
Follow the road down to the Capela of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte. You can park the car in the carpark next to the chapel.
If you reach Achadas da Cruz, you have missed the turning to the chapel.
By Bus
The Rodoeste bus company serves the area. Service lines 80 and 142 are possibilities but, they are infrequent and limited. You should check the timetable carefully before embarking on your journey.
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