Situated within the mountainous interior of the island roughly halfway between the northern and southern coasts.
It is a popular year round tourist attraction with the summit accessible by road directly from Funchal.
On a clear day it is possible to see the neighboring island of Porto Santo, 48 km (30 mi) to the northeast.
The peak has in recent times become popular with cyclists making the ascent from Funchal.
There is easy road access to the summit, with a large car park, a restaurant and souvenir shop.