Fanal Laurel Forest
Fanal Laurel Forest is a stunning natural reserve located in Madeira, Portugal. This ancient forest is a unique ecosystem that has been preserved for centuries, and it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike, as it offers a plethora of breathtaking views and photo opportunities. The dense canopy of trees creates a magical atmosphere, and the mist that often shrouds the forest adds to its mystical charm. Some of the best photography locations in Fanal Laurel Forest include the Levada do Paul da Serra, the Ribeira da Janela waterfall, and the Miradouro do Pico Ruivo.
Posto Florestal Fanal is an amazing place to photograph magnificent Laurel trees. You can find solitary or semi-solitary old trees of various shapes and sizes.
Photo Tips: Absolutely try to get there in a foggy weather, as it really makes the place mystical and helps you to create more interesting compositions. That said, it's definitely possible to make great photographs in a warm morning or evening sun.
You'll use either wide angle lens if you try to fill the frame with nicely twisted tree branches or normal lens to capture individual trees or small groups.
Getting there: There are several smaller parking spots next to the road around this place.
Another gnarled, mossy tree from Fanal forest.
The Fanal is part of the the "Laurisilva of Madeira" wich is a Unesco World Heritage site since the year 2000. It is an outstanding relict of a previously widespread laurel forest type.
The magic of the area only comes with the fog, which often rises the steep slopes from the northern coast and then envelopes the bizarre trees. It then seems to rain under the trees, but that's just the condensed fog dripping from the leaves. An absolutely magical experience, that can be over as quickly as it came. You just have to be lucky.
One more from mysterious Fanal!
Just came back from a fantastic trip to the island of Madeira with a pocket full of great material. Lets start with one of the most magic places of the island, the Fanal forest. We were so lucky to have this fog wich turns this place into pure magic!
Thanks to all Phoide contributors to Fanal Laurel Forest!
Most notably Walter Maurer and Jiri Hajek.