A Magical Morning Above the Clouds

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for experiences that can captivate both adults and children alike. The Pico Arieiro Sunrise experience in Funchal promised just that—a magical morning above the clouds, and it did not disappoint.

Our adventure began in the early hours of the morning, with Antonio, our guide, picking us up at 5:15 am. His 35-year-old jeep, lovingly maintained, added a touch of nostalgia to our journey. As we drove through the winding roads, the anticipation built up. The kids were bundled up in warm clothes, and I had packed a breakfast to keep us fueled for the morning ahead.

Upon reaching Pico do Arieiro, we embarked on a short 15-minute walk to the viewpoint. The air was crisp, and the wind was strong, but the excitement kept us warm. We found a perfect spot to settle down, laying out our blanket on the cold boulders. As we waited for the sun to rise, the sky was a canvas of stars, a sight that left us all in awe.

Witnessing Nature’s Splendor

The moment the sun began to peek over the horizon was nothing short of magical. Shades of orange and purple painted the sky, reflecting on the clouds below us. It was a breathtaking sight, one that I knew would be etched in our memories forever. The kids were mesmerized, their eyes wide with wonder as they watched the world awaken.

As the sun rose higher, the sea and green mountains emerged from the clouds, creating a stunning panorama. We took countless photos, capturing the beauty of the moment. It was a reminder of the simple joys of life and the wonders of nature that we often take for granted.

After the sunrise, we returned to the jeep, our hearts full and spirits lifted. Antonio’s knowledge of the area added depth to our experience, as he shared stories about the local wildlife and the history of the region. The kids were thrilled to spot sheep, goats, and cows along the way, adding an element of fun to our journey.

A Peaceful Walk Through Nature

Our next stop was the enchanting Levada de Balcoes. This peaceful walk was a stark contrast to the bustling city life we were used to. The sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves created a serene atmosphere, perfect for a family stroll.

The path was mostly flat, making it accessible for all ages. However, there were some steep downward steps towards the end, so I was glad to have my walking sticks with me. The kids, ever the adventurers, navigated the path with ease, their laughter echoing through the trees.

Our walk ended at a quaint cafe, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. We indulged in delicious Tarta de nata, a delightful treat that was a hit with the kids. Paired with a warm cup of coffee for me and hot chocolate for the little ones, it was the perfect way to end our morning adventure.

By 9:30 am, we were back in Funchal, our hearts full of memories and our minds buzzing with stories to share. The Pico Arieiro Sunrise experience was more than just a sunrise; it was a journey into the heart of nature, a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, and a perfect family adventure.