Fanal Forest — Madeira's Most Atmospheric Ancient Woodland

Fanal is a high plateau forest in northwest Madeira, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Laurisilva of Madeira. Ancient til trees (Ocotea foetens), some over 500 years old, stand draped in mosses and ferns on a misty highland plateau at around 1,150 m altitude. The effect is otherworldly — especially when Atlantic mist rolls through the canopy, which it does regularly throughout the year.

Things to Do at Fanal Forest

• Walk among the ancient til trees — the PR13 forest circuit (2–3 hours) loops through the heart of the woodland
• Photography at dawn when mist fills the plateau and soft light filters through the ancient canopy
• Spot Madeira laurel pigeons (Columba trocaz) — large endemic birds that feed in the treetops
• Walk the Levada do Fanal (8 km) through pristine laurisilva to the Paul da Serra plateau
• Combine with Porto Moniz natural rock pools on the same day (30 min drive)
• Picnic in the forest clearing — Fanal has a small picnic area with benches and a fire pit

Where to Stay near Fanal

• Porto Moniz Natural Pools Hotel — Directly above the volcanic pools, 30 min from Fanal
• Savoy Saccharum Resort — Luxury spa hotel in Calheta, 40 min from Fanal
• Estalagem da Ponta do Sol — Clifftop boutique hotel on the south coast, 45 min from Fanal
• Quinta do Furão — North coast vineyard estate, 1 hour from Fanal

Practical Information

Fanal is 45 km from Funchal (1 hour by car). There is no public transport to Fanal — a hire car or organised tour is essential. Temperatures are cool (12–16°C) even in summer; always bring a waterproof jacket and warm layer. Mist and cloud are frequent and add to the atmosphere rather than detracting from it.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Fanal Forest?

Fanal is magical year-round but especially atmospheric from October to April when low cloud and mist regularly fill the plateau. Spring (March–May) brings lush green moss and vibrant ferns. Summer mornings before 10 AM often have mist before it clears to sunshine.

Is Fanal Forest suitable for families with children?

Yes. The forest clearing at Fanal is flat and the main paths are easy walking. Children love exploring among the huge ancient trees. The walk to the picnic area is less than 1 km from the car park on a wide, well-maintained path.

Is Fanal Forest part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes. Fanal is within the Laurisilva of Madeira, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. It is one of the largest surviving areas of primary laurel forest in the world — a relic of the subtropical forests that once covered southern Europe before the Ice Age.