Madeira Island is a stunning destination that features breathtaking natural landscapes and lush green forests. One of the best ways to explore the island’s natural beauty is by hiking the well-known Levadas.
Levadas are narrow water channels that were built to distribute water from the mountains to the agricultural fields in the lower parts of the island. Nowadays, these levadas are used as hiking trails that offer visitors a unique and adventurous way to explore Madeira Island.
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Levadas in Madeira
What are the benefits of hiking Levadas?
Cardiovascular Health
Reduce Stress
Improve Mental Health
Top 10 Levadas
This is a challenging Levada that takes you through a beautiful forest and ends at the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall. In the heart of the Laurissilva forest, an 18th century ‘levada’ canal carries abundant water to nourish the agricultural lands of the parish of Faial.
The trail is about 9 km long, but the views are well worth it.
The trail is about 9 km long, but the views are well worth it.
Details
8,7 km
Moderate
6h30
This trail begins at Rabaçal and follows the Levada do Alecrim, which is located at an altitude of 1300 meters. It continues along this path until it reaches its spring at Ribeira do Lajeado.
Moreover, you will come across heather tunnels that provide an extraordinary ambiance, adding a touch of uniqueness to your walking adventure.
Moreover, you will come across heather tunnels that provide an extraordinary ambiance, adding a touch of uniqueness to your walking adventure.
Details
3,5 km
Easy
2h30
Beginning at Rabaçal, this is one of the most popular Levadas in Madeira Island.
The trail takes you through a lush green forest, where you can discover Lagoa das 25 Fontes. This lagoon is formed by the cascading waters originating from Paul da Serra, where they emerge gracefully through 25 natural springs in this very location.
The trail takes you through a lush green forest, where you can discover Lagoa das 25 Fontes. This lagoon is formed by the cascading waters originating from Paul da Serra, where they emerge gracefully through 25 natural springs in this very location.
Details
4,3 km
Moderate
3h00
Beginning at the Paúl da Serra plateau, this trail offers hikers the chance to cross a vast green area of the indigenous Laurissilva forest.
Vereda do Fanal ends at Fanal, where you will find a small volcanic crater classified as a Rest and Quiet Reserve by the Madeira Natural Park.
Vereda do Fanal ends at Fanal, where you will find a small volcanic crater classified as a Rest and Quiet Reserve by the Madeira Natural Park.
Details
10,8 km
Moderate
4h00
This trail goes mainly downhill as it winds its way through the landscape. It starts at regional road ER 209, situated in the forested area that offers views of the small town of Ribeira da Janela.
Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the agricultural region, characterized by its terraced fields ingeniously upheld by sturdy stone walls.
Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the agricultural region, characterized by its terraced fields ingeniously upheld by sturdy stone walls.
Details
2,7 km
Moderate
1h30
This trail starts at the Water Treatment Plant of Quebradas in São Jorge. Along the way, you’ll witness São Jorge and Santana’s agricultural landscapes and captivating vegetation tunnels.
The highlight of the walk awaits at Ribeiro Bonito, an isolated natural sanctuary embraced by the lush vegetation of the Laurissilva forest.
The highlight of the walk awaits at Ribeiro Bonito, an isolated natural sanctuary embraced by the lush vegetation of the Laurissilva forest.
Details
3,5 km
Easy
2h30
This trail leads to the highest point of the archipelago: Pico Ruivo, standing at 1862 meters.
Along Vereda do Pico Ruivo, you’ll pass by shelters designed for the ever-changing weather in the area. Prepare for the possibility of being surrounded by clouds or above them, creating unforgettable images.
Along Vereda do Pico Ruivo, you’ll pass by shelters designed for the ever-changing weather in the area. Prepare for the possibility of being surrounded by clouds or above them, creating unforgettable images.
Details
2,8 km
Moderate
1h30
The trail begins at Ribeiro Frio, offering views of the lush greenery of the Laurissilva forest.
Along Levada do Furado, hikers can admire the farmlands of Faial, São Roque do Faial, and Porto da Cruz, as well as the majestic Penha d’Águia rock formation. Don’t miss the chance to recharge at the Portela viewpoint towards the end of the trail.
Along Levada do Furado, hikers can admire the farmlands of Faial, São Roque do Faial, and Porto da Cruz, as well as the majestic Penha d’Águia rock formation. Don’t miss the chance to recharge at the Portela viewpoint towards the end of the trail.
Details
11 km
Moderate
5h00
This short trail unveils indigenous and endemic species. At the endpoint, the Balcões viewpoint provides a magnificent scenic view.
On the way back, you can visit Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, home to the Aquaculture Centre and a rainbow trout nursery.
On the way back, you can visit Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, home to the Aquaculture Centre and a rainbow trout nursery.
Details
1,5 km
Easy
1h30
In this trail, you’ll experience the island’s natural heritage up close. Along Levada dos Cedros, you can enjoy the peaceful Fanal area, classified as a Rest and Quiet Reserve in the Madeira Natural Park.
Here you can encounter a centuries-old Til forest, existing since the island’s discovery.
Here you can encounter a centuries-old Til forest, existing since the island’s discovery.
