Top 10 Levadas & Hiking Trails in Madeira, Portugal

Exploring Paradise: Top 10 Levadas & Hiking Trails in Madeira, Portugal

 

With its many gorgeous mountains and waterfalls, it’s no surprise that Madeira has long been referred to as a “hiker’s paradise”. Many of these trails follow the old irrigation canals called “levadas” that were used to bring water from the north side of the island to the south. Although still used today, many of these canals are also widely used for walking. No matter your preference or experience level, there are many different types of trails all over Madeira. Beginners or those looking for a more leisurely nature walk should stick to the south side of the island, while those looking for a more exhilarating trekking experience should head north to the mountainous side of the island.

 

Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Madeira Island's Pico do Arieiro Hiking Trail

1. Vereda do Areeiro - Pico Ruivo

Distance: VN 7,4km and VS 8,7km

Degree of difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 3:30h

Start/End: Pico do Areeiro/ Pico Ruivo

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude:18572 m /1491 m

The Vereda do Areeiro - Pico Ruivo is one of Madeira's most renowned hiking trails, offering breathtaking vistas of the island's dramatic landscapes. This challenging trail takes you from Areeiro to the highest peak, Pico Ruivo, providing stunning panoramic views of mountains, valleys, and the rugged coastline.

 

For avid hikers and nature enthusiasts, Madeira Island's Pico Ruivo is an absolute must-visit destination.

2. Vereda dos Balcões

Distance: 1,5 Km (+ 1,5 Km return)

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Duration: 1:30h

Start/End: E.R. 103 (Ribeiro Frio) / E.R. 103 (Ribeiro Frio)

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 880m / 870 m

This relatively easy and family-friendly trail leads to a viewpoint known as "Balcões," where visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the Ribeira Frio valley and its lush forests. The trail is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and takes you through the island's enchanting Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

 

If you're looking for a more leisurely hiking experience, the Vereda dos Balcões hiking trail in Madeira Island is a perfect choice

3. Levada do Alecrim

Distance: 3.5 km (+ 3,5 km return)

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Duration: 1,5 hours

Start/End: Rabaçal Shelter / Nascente da Levada do Alecrim

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 1339 m / 1256 m

Levada do Alecrim is an easy 2.5-hour hike offering panoramic views of the Rabaçal Valley and Ribeira da Janela. The highlight is the Levada do Alecrim spring, supplying the Calheta Hydroelectric Power Plant and featuring the 'Dona Beja' lake, which feeds the stunning Lagoa do Vento waterfall, perfect for a refreshing stop.

 

The Levada do Alecrim trail is perfect for those who want to experience Madeira Island's natural beauty in a unique and memorable way

4. Levada do Caldeirão Verde

Distance: 8,7 km (+ 8,7 Km return)

Degree of difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 6:30 hours

Start/End: Queimadas Forestry Park / Caldeirão do Inferno

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 1020 m / 872 m

The beginning of Levada do Caldeirão Verde, a 6.5-hour hike, is remarkable. The Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas, resembling traditional Casas de Santana, captivates with its triangular shape and thatched roof. As you proceed, the Levada do Caldeirão Verde terrace showcases the exotic beauty of nature. Amidst the Laurissilva forest, this historic 18th-century levada channels abundant water to Faial parish's farmlands, highlighting the island's rich heritage.

 

The Levada do Caldeirão hiking trail in Madeira Island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life

5. Vereda do Fanal

Distance: 10.8 Km

Degree of difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 4 hours

Start/End: E.R. 209 Assobiadores / E.R. 209 Fanal

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 1420 m / 1130 m

The Vereda do Fanal, a moderately challenging trail, leads to Fanal, home to a small volcanic crater designated as a Rest and Quiet Reserve by the Madeira Natural Park. This serene location offers relaxation and stunning views from natural viewpoints. The area is surrounded by ancient Til (Ocotea foetens) woods, some of which have graced the landscape since before the island's discovery, creating a unique and tranquil atmosphere.

 

The Vereda do Fanal hiking trail in Madeira Island is a hidden gem for those seeking to explore the island's enchanting Laurissilva forest

6. Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço 

Distance: 3 Km (+ 3 Km return)

Degree of difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 2h30 hours

Start/End: E.R. 109 (Baía d’Abra - Caniçal) / Casa do Sardinha

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 126 m / 23 m

Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço offers a pleasant hike despite its undulating terrain. This volcanic peninsula consists mainly of basalt, with limestone sediment formations. At its end, you'll find two islets: Desembarcadouro Islet and Farol Islet. The semi-arid climate and exposure to northern winds result in sparse vegetation and no trees, a stark contrast to the rest of the island. It's a Partial Nature Reserve heritage site, boasting rare plants and diverse fauna.

 

The Ponta de São Lourenço hiking trail in Madeira is a thrilling adventure that takes you to the rugged easternmost point of the island

7. Levada das 25 Fontes

Distance: 4,6 Km (+ 4,6 Km return)

Degree of difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 3h

Start/End: Casa de Abrigo do Rabaçal / 25 Fontes

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 1288 m / 964m

Levada das 25 Fontes offers a tranquil hike amidst stunning natural beauty. It leads to Lagoa das 25 Fontes, formed by waters flowing from Paul da Serra through 25 springs. The landscape is truly unique, providing an opportunity for contemplation and appreciation of nature's intricate outlines.

 

The Levada das 25 Fontes hiking trail is a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

8. Vereda das Queimadas

Distance: 2,1Km

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Duration: 45 minutes

Start/End: Queimadas / Pico das Pedras

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 890 m / 870 m

The "A path for all" trail is carefully crafted to allow everyone to connect with Madeira's lush nature. It serves as the starting point for the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, offering accessibility and a gateway to the island's natural beauty.

 

The Vereda Das Queimadas trail is a fantastic hiking experience steeped in history and natural beauty

9. Vereda do Pico Branco e Terra Chã (Porto Santo Island)

Distance: 2,7 km

Degree of difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 1:30h

Start/End: ER 120 / Terra Chã

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 450 m / 184 m

The Vereda do Pico Branco e Terra Chã trail, initially created for cargo mules, starts at regional road ER 120, leading to the island's second-highest point, Pico Branco. During the hike, you'll encounter the impressive prismatic geological formation known as Rocha Quebrada, through which the trail was ingeniously carved.

 

If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike in Porto Santo, Portugal, the Pico Branco and Terra Chã trail is the perfect choice

10.  Vereda do Pico do Castelo (Porto Santo Island)

Distance: 3,2 Km /4,6 km

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Start/End: Moledo / Canhão Viewpoint

Duration: 1,30hr/2,15hr

Max. Altitude/Min. Altitude: 435 m / 225 m

Vereda do Pico do Castelo, starting at Moledo, offers two routes along the forest road, one on the northern side of Pico do Facho and the other, the island's longest trail, on the southern side. The hike introduces hikers to exotic species like Aleppo pine and indigenous flora like the dragon tree (Dracaena draco). This enriching experience provides a close connection with the diverse flora of the region. On the way to Pico do Castelo, historically a fort protecting against pirate attacks, you can explore the Canhão Viewpoint, adding to the adventure

 

The Pico do Castelo hike in Porto Santo, Portugal is one of the island's most scenic adventures

If you have fallen in love with Madeira, take a look at our hassle-free packages that allow you to plan your dream trip to this beautiful destination. Our team of local experts has thoughtfully designed all our packages, ensuring that you don't have to worry about any arrangements. Simply sit back, unwind, and make the most of your vacation!

 

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