The trail follows Ponta de S.Lourenço, the eastern-most peninsula of Madeira island, named after the caravel sailed by João Gonçalves de Zarco, one of the three discoverers of Madeira Island. This peninsula is volcanic in origin, and comprises two islets: Cevada, Desembarcadouros Islet, and the Ponta de S.Lourenço, Farol or Fora Islet. The peninsula is classified as a partial natural reserve and the Desembarcadouro Islet is a total natural reserve. All the land and sea by the north coast, up to a depth of 50 m, is part of the European network of important community sites- Natura 2000. The semi-arid climate and its exposure to North winds have sculpted the low vegetation and explain the lack of trees, which distinguish this area of the rest of the Island and is a veritable natural heritage. In the sea, you may be lucky enough to spot the world's rarest seal, known in Madeira as seal monks (Monachus monachus). On the horizon to the south you can see Ilhas Desertas (Deserted Islands) and to the North the Porto Santo Island. From the stone wall of Bay d'Abra the entire area belongs to the Regional Government, integrating the Madeira Natural Park.