Levada Walks
Author: Julia
In this article you will learn more about the varied levada walks in Madeira and get useful tips and tricks for your adventure. I'll take you on a journey through the stunning nature of the island and show you why the levada walks are an unforgettable experience. Before coming to Madeira for the first time, I had never heard of "levadas", the paths along irrigation channels. I love to hike far - without much uphill and downhill. That's why these hiking trails have done it to me!
Everything is possible!
The paths along the "levadas" offer hikes of different levels of difficulty. Whether it is just a short walk or a full day tour, there is something for everyone. Some trails can be a little more adventurous, with long tunnels, narrow paths and steep rock faces, and the focus is always on nature. There are trails to mystical waterfalls through deep gorges, almost always with tremendous views, and through fabulous forests. Most of the hiking trails are wide and safe and suitable for both children and senior citizens. In addition, there are many circular routes or you march back the same way, now from a new angle.
Although most routes are straightforward along the irrigation canal, I recommend the MAPS.ME app or a good walking map. Since Madeira is a walking island, you will almost always find other walkers happy to help you. A guidebook in the "Villa Céu e Mar" informs you about all the "levada hikes" in Madeira.
Unspoilt nature along the "Levada Prazeres-Raposeira"
Level of difficulty: easy
The hike starts in Prazeres, only a few minutes by car from "Villa Céu e Mar". It is possible to walk your discovery tour along the "Levada" in both directions, which is marked on Google Maps with "Levada Prazeres-Raposeira".
Heading south, the path leads you through a pine and eucalyptus forest. Enjoy the peace and beauty of nature. Follow the scent of the eucalyptus and walk along the "levada", which always runs at the same altitude. Follow the levada as long as you feel like it or, as I did, have your fellow travellers pick you up at a suitable spot by car. Of course, you can also walk all the way to Calheta (but it's a very long way) and relax on the beach and enjoy the culinary delights in the bars and restaurants.
On the way north, an open landscape awaits you with short stretches in the forest and stunning views of the sea. Here and there you will pass through small towns where you can refresh yourself or enjoy a delicious "garoto". A "garoto" is an espresso with milk and my absolute favourite coffee drink in Madeira. If you are good on foot, you can walk in this direction to the lighthouse in Ponta do Pargo. But beware, this is an exceedingly long stretch!
These walks along the "levada" are flat and offer breathtaking views of the sea. Here it is easy to completely switch off - step by step a meditation.
Levada Nova- Pure adventure
Level of difficulty: medium
The "Levada Nova" in Porta do Sol is a little adventure! You can find the route on Google Maps: "Levada Nova - Ponta do Sol". The route can be hiked either as a circular walk or as an easy route and is ideal for all the adventurers out there. On one side you walk along a majestic rock face, while on the other side it is steeply downhill. Although there is a handrail, hikers with a fear of heights should avoid this hike. The spectacular views, however, make this tour absolutely unforgettable. We hiked this route in winter and walked through small waterfalls, so waterproof shoes are an advantage. The trail runs through a long tunnel, so a torch is recommended. This hike is therefore not suitable for children. This route is very popular and you will meet other hikers along the way.
Levada das 25 Fontes- Popular for a reason
Level of difficulty: easy - medium
The highland area is undoubtedly one of the most popular hiking areas on Madeira (Google Maps: PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes/Levada do Risco). Here you will find a variety of different hiking routes, which vary in difficulty and duration. As the name suggests, there are springs and stunning natural scenery at every turn.
Don't be put off by the popularity of this area (and the ever-full car park)! A hike here is definitely worthwhile and you will often meet few people on the many trails. In high season, however, you will sometimes encounter large groups of tourists on the Levada route. Therefore, I would recommend walking along the levada in the early morning or late afternoon.
Combine your hike with a visit to the fairy forest in the Fanal area in the northwest of the island. To discover this centuries-old laurel forest, start directly at the Posto Florestal forestry house. Behind the car park you will see green meadows with ferns, moss and a few old trees, occasionally joined by cows. There is a small place for a picnic. This meadow landscape is followed by the old forest.
Levada do Moinho Hike - like in the jungle
Level of difficulty: medium
The hike starts in the charming village of Achadas da Cruz in the northwest of the island (Google Maps: Levada do Moinho). Parking is available, but the starting point is not so easy to find. Follow the main road east of the village until you come to a staircase that leads through houses to the start of the "levada". It is advisable to have a hiking app or map with you to find the way. The beginning and some sections of the walk are a bit steeper. I had the feeling of walking through the jungle. The varied path lets you get completely lost in the flora and fauna. Take a deep breath, enjoy the tranquillity of nature and everyday life is far away. Remember to wear the right shoes in case of rain. The circular walk takes about 2 ½ hours. If you choose the circular route, the last part is along the road, which is not safe due to the curves and is therefore not suitable for children. A tip: In Achadas da Cruz there is a cable car with a spectacular view. For those less afraid of heights, visit the café for great refreshments.
I hope I have awakened your wanderlust! Madeira is known for its beautiful hikes, but there are also many other outdoor activities that will make you want to do more: Diving, canyoning, paragliding or watching dolphins and whales.
