Fanal Forest — Attraction in Porto Moniz

This mystical forest, shrouded in mist and adorned with ancient trees, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

As you venture into Fanal, you'll find yourself immersed in a fairytale-like setting. The forest is filled with majestic Laurissilva trees, which are endemic to Madeira and create a captivating canopy above you. The interplay of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, evoking a sense of wonder and magic.

One of the highlights of Fanal is its enchanting hiking trails. Follow the winding paths and discover hidden nooks, picturesque streams, and moss-covered rocks. Each step reveals a new marvel of nature, captivating your senses and inviting you to explore further.

The centerpiece of Fanal is the famous Fanal Picnic Area, a serene spot where you can relax and indulge in a picnic amidst the beauty of the forest. The fresh air, soothing sounds of nature, and the company of towering trees create an idyllic setting for a peaceful escape from the outside world.

For photography enthusiasts, Fanal is a dream come true. Capture the mystical atmosphere, play with the unique lighting conditions, and frame the ancient trees against the backdrop of the mist-covered landscape. Each snapshot is a testament to the ethereal beauty of this natural wonderland.

Fanal is a place where time slows down, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the natural world. Whether you're seeking solace, inspiration, or an unforgettable adventure, this mystical forest retreat offers an unparalleled experience that will stay with you long after you've left its...

If you're a fan of Tolkien, fantasy, or magical places in general, there's a very good chance you'll fall in love with this real-life Misty Mountain. But honestly, even if fantasy isn’t your thing, Fanal Forest is still worth your time — because it’s just that unique.

This place feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. Picture a thick, mystical fog swirling around ancient, twisted trees that look like they’ve been standing there for centuries — because they have. This primeval laurel forest, protected by UNESCO, is home to trees that are over 500 years old. Oh, and there are also cows.

The atmosphere is serene and awe-inspiring. In fact, there’s something strange and beautiful about the silence here. It’s the kind of place where you half-expect elves to step out from behind the trees. Unfortunately, those figures are just tourists. But personally, I didn’t see any problem with that — literally. The fog was so thick, I couldn’t see them. So don’t worry, your photos will likely be tourist-free if you have patience and right equipment.

To elabore further, dont forget to bring a water-repellent jacket or coat (the humidity is intense) and shoes you don’t mind getting muddy (and trust me, the mud here is very stubborn). Ooo, and if you’re a dwarf at heart and you like feasts, you may try to have a pickick in the misty forest. And most importantly, bring a sense of wonder. As the bards once sang: "Farewell we call to hearth and hall! Though wind may blow and rain may fall, We must away ere break of day. Far over wood and...

Really photogenic and natural area of outstanding beauty, on the ER209 which runs up into the mountains a short way out of Porto Moniz. The road is well maintained and two way so no issues with traffic. The forest area is some 10 miles in, with car parking on both sides of the road, and toilet facilities.

I was there at around 1230-1300 on Saturday, and it was perhaps busier than I had hoped, but that's my bad as I was on a motorcycle tour of the NW of the island. I'm guessing an early morning would be the best time to visit, particularly as there was minimal cloud when I was there, and from the pictures I have seen online, it is better photographed when it is more misty.

Nonetheless, it is a lovely spot, and with judicious positioning of the camera, you are able to photograph the trees without people in the background.

If coming from Funchal, a shorter route is via the ER209 at Carvalhal, off the ER222 coast road (not the main ER101), and at the crossroads at Paul de Serra, just follow the signs for Fanal.

There are numerous walks and trails available from both the main two car parks, and one slightly further up the valley by a few hundred yards, where there is...