Terreiro da Luta and Our Lady of Peace
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Funchal and the coast from this spiritual sanctuary, home to the iconic Our Lady of Peace statue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Terreiro da Luta and Our Lady of Peace
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Funchal and the coast from this spiritual sanctuary, home to the iconic Our Lady of Peace statue.
"A Funchal highlight! Panoramic city and coastal views, a breathtaking spectacle."
🎯 Beat the Ticket Queues
Long queues for the viewing balcony are common. Visit early or late to minimize wait times for tickets.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking to take in the views and explore the sanctuary.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Funchal Vista
Viewing Balcony
Breathtaking, sweeping views of Funchal city and the coastline. A photographer's dream, especially at sunset.
Our Lady of Peace Statue
Sanctuary Grounds
An iconic and spiritually significant statue, a focal point for reflection and admiration.
Zeus the Parrot's Cafe
Near the Sanctuary
A charming refreshment stop with great prices on drinks and a friendly parrot named Zeus.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Combine with Monte Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Ticket Queues
Long queues for the viewing balcony are common. Visit early or late to minimize wait times for tickets.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking to take in the views and explore the sanctuary.
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The panoramic views are spectacular at sunset, making it a prime time for photography.
🤫 Respectful Visits
This is a spiritual place. Be mindful of locals in prayer and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Ticket Queues
Long queues for the viewing balcony are common. Visit early or late to minimize wait times for tickets.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking to take in the views and explore the sanctuary.
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The panoramic views are spectacular at sunset, making it a prime time for photography.
🤫 Respectful Visits
This is a spiritual place. Be mindful of locals in prayer and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🥤 Refreshments Available
There's a small cafe nearby with good prices on drinks and a famous parrot named Zeus.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning panoramic views of Funchal and the coastline, calling it a 'breathtaking spectacle' and a 'truly memorable view'. The spiritual sanctuary and the iconic Our Lady statue are also highly praised. However, some find the viewing balcony can be very crowded with long ticket queues, and the souvenir shop's offerings are considered odd by some.
"Beautiful View and Perfect for Relaxing”
The view here is amazing, and it’s such a great spot to unwind and relax. The peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place to spend some quiet time. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy a serene setting"
jackey maharjan
"A Funchal highlight! Panoramic city and coastal views, a breathtaking spectacle. Iconic Our Lady statue nearby. Perfect for photos, especially at sunset. A must-visit for unforgettable scenery. Easy access, offering a stunning vista. A truly memorable view, showcasing Madeira's beauty. It is a very impressive viewpoint."
Ricardo Gonçalves
"Stopped here as part of a day trip. Views are spectacular. Very crowded, long queues to buy tickets for the viewing balcony. Souvenir shop selling items not really applicable to madeira, ie boomerangs, quite ridiculous in my opinion."
Genine Riddell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to Terreiro da Luta, with easy parking available. It's also a short distance from Monte, making it easy to combine with visits to Monte Palace Tropical Garden or the toboggan rides. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also options from Funchal.
While it's about 2km from Monte, walking might be steep. Driving or taking transport is generally more convenient for most visitors.
Many visitors opt for a rental car for flexibility. Alternatively, guided tours often include both locations, or you can use a combination of taxis and public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there are queues to buy tickets for the viewing balcony. It's advisable to purchase them to access the best vantage points.
Specific opening hours can vary, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information.
The sanctuary itself is a spiritual site and typically free to enter. However, access to specific viewing platforms or areas might require a ticket.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly at the ticket office if you believe you might qualify for any concessions.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers stunning golden hour light for capturing the panoramic city and coastal views. Early mornings can also provide beautiful light with fewer people.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, be respectful of the spiritual nature of the sanctuary and avoid intrusive photography of individuals in prayer.
Expect wide-angle shots of Funchal, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains. The Our Lady of Peace statue also makes for a striking subject.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small refreshment stop near the sanctuary with a parrot named Zeus, offering drinks and snacks at reasonable prices.
Picnicking is generally acceptable in designated areas, but it's always good practice to check for any specific rules regarding outside food and beverages.
For more substantial meals, you would likely need to head back towards Monte or Funchal, which offer a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the viewing balcony can get crowded, consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the experience more comfortable for everyone. The drive up is scenic, and it's a great spot for kids to appreciate the vastness of the landscape. Pack snacks and drinks, though the cafe offers affordable options.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for potential crowds at the viewing balcony, which might require some patience to get the perfect shot. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to fully capture the expansive scenery. The drive up offers its own scenic opportunities, so keep your camera ready.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Visiting during the early morning or on a weekday can help you avoid crowds and truly soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The nearby cafe with Zeus the parrot offers a friendly, low-key spot to relax with a drink.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Our Lady of Peace
This site offers a blend of natural beauty and religious devotion. The presence of the iconic statue of Our Lady of Peace is a central element, drawing visitors seeking both scenic views and a moment of reflection. It's a place where the serene atmosphere can be deeply felt, especially outside of peak visiting hours.
While the views are a major draw, the spiritual aspect of the sanctuary is equally important. Visitors often comment on the peacefulness and the opportunity for quiet contemplation, making it more than just a viewpoint.
Capturing the Iconic Views
Many visitors recommend visiting during sunset for the most dramatic and photogenic light. The 'golden hour' transforms the landscape, offering unforgettable scenery perfect for photography.
Beyond the sweeping landscapes, the Our Lady statue nearby also presents a compelling photographic subject, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the visual experience.
Practicalities for a Smooth Visit
For refreshments, there's a convenient little cafe near the sanctuary. It's known for its great prices on beer and box wine, and notably, a parrot named Zeus.
Combining your visit with nearby attractions like Monte is a common and recommended strategy. The proximity makes it an efficient way to experience multiple Funchal-area highlights in a single outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit