Madeira is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers, and in this guide, I'm going to take you through the best levadas in Madeira.
Top 10 Levadas in Madeira
During my trip I explored the most impressive levadas of the island. What surprised me the most about the routes was the wild nature surrounding the environment and the good road maintenance. Here is a summary of the ones I liked the most.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Location: This iconic levada is located on the Queimadas Natural Park, in the northeast of the island.
Difficulty: Qualified as easy, is ideal for all levels of hikers.
Length: Approximately 12 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
Relevant Data: The Levada do Caldeirão Verde will lead you to through dense laurel forests and will reward you with the sight of a waterfall impressive at the end of the route. It is a relaxing walk and a real delight for nature lovers.
Levada das 25 Fontes: The most popular Levada in Madeira
Location: These two levadas share a beginning in the same place, in the Madeira Natural Park.
Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep sections and narrow passages.
Length: Approximately 11 kilometers for Levada das 25 Fontes.
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours for both lifts combined
Relevant Data: Both levadas offer a doubly fascinating experience. Levada das 25 Fontes takes you to a waterfall surrounded by exuberant vegetation, while Levada do Risco will surprise you with its panoramic view at the end of the route.
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Levada in Madeira: Da Ribeira da Janela
Location: The Levada da Ribeira da Janela is located on the north coast of Madeira, near the charming village of Porto Moniz.
Length: This levada has an approximate length of 23 kilometers (round trip).
Difficulty: The route is generally of low to moderate difficulty, suitable for most people, including beginners. This is because it is mostly a flat trail.
Estimated Time: The route along the Levada da Ribeira da Janela can take approximately 5-6 hoursdepending on your pace and the stops you make to enjoy the views.
Tunnels and Bridges: During the hike, you will cross tunnels carved in the volcanic rock and cross small bridges over the streams that flow along the levada.
Some sections such as tunnels can be narrow, so keep in mind that you will need a flashlight. The one on your cell phone may work, but I recommend you bring a headlamp.
Levada do Rei
Location: In the northwest of Madeira, in the São Jorge area.
Difficulty: Easy, ideal for beginners.
Length: Approximately 10 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
Relevant Data: The Levada do Rei will lead you through a magical forest of giant ferns. It is one of the most peaceful and relaxing levadas of Madeira, perfect for a quiet walk.
Levada do Caniçal
Location: In the east coast of Madeira, near Caniçal.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, with some technical parts.
Length: Approximately 10 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
Relevant Data: This levada offers a unique experience, since it passes by tunnels excavated in the volcanic rock. Prepare to explore the subway darkness before emerging into a world of natural beauty on the other side.
Levada do Paul da Serra
Location: In the Paul da Serra plateau, in the west of Madeira.
Difficulty: Easy, with a mostly flat terrain.
Length: Approximately 13 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
Relevant Data: This levada will take you through a unique mountain scenery, with wide views and pastures. It is an excellent option for those who wish to enjoy a panoramic hike without extreme challenges.
Levada Nova
Location: In the north coast of Madeira.
Difficulty: Easy, with flat land.
Length: Approximately 9 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
Levada in Madeira: do Caldeirão do Inferno
Location: Nearby Ribeira Funda.
Difficulty: Moderate, with rocky terrain.
Length: Approximately 16.5 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
Relevant Data: It takes to the impressive "Caldeirão do Inferno", it is literally a waterfall in a crater.
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Other Must-Have Trails in Madeira
These trails that I am going to introduce you to are different from the levadas in Madeira. They are more similar to mountain trails and probably will be the most popular trails on the island.
Vereda do Areeiro to Ruivo Route
Location: Starts at Pico do Arieiro and ends in Pico Ruivo.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, with steep sections and footbridges.
Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 5-6 hours
Relevant Data: This is one of the most exciting routes in Madeira, taking you from one of the highest peaks to the highest. Breathtaking panoramic views at every step. Discover here How is the route from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo?.
Ponta de São Lourenço Trail Route
Location: At the tip east of Madeira.
Difficulty: Moderate, with rocky and windy terrain.
Distance: Approximately 7.5 kilometers (round trip)
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
Relevant Data: This route will take you through a landscape with unique rock formations and breathtaking sea views.
My Experience: Levadas in Madeira
When you venture out on the trails and levadas in Madeira, carry a windbreaker and a raincoat with you. The climate on the island, especially in the mountains, can change quickly. You will be prepared for any weather surprises Madeira has in store for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to hike in Madeira?
The trails of Madeira are generally safe for hikers, but as with any outdoor adventure, it is important to be cautious. The island is known for its diverse and sometimes challenging natural environment. Be sure to bring a map detailed of the downloaded route, especially in levadas, where secondary routes and tunnels can be confusing.
Make sure you that it does not get dark while on the trail. This is specially relevant in the levadas, where dense vegetation and lack of light can make it easy to get lost.
Generally speaking, Madeira is a safe destination for hiking. The island is known for its hospitality and friendliness towards tourists, and the incidents of theft or altercations are extremely rare. Locals usually welcome hikers and are willing to offer assistance if needed.
What are levadas in Madeira?
Surely you must have wondered where the meaning of levada comes from. And why almost all the hiking trails in Madeira begin with this word.
Levadas are an ingenious water canal system that were built on the island during the XV and XVI centuries. Its main function was to carry water from the humid regions of northern Madeira to the drier areas of the south, where it was needed for agriculture.
These historic water channels, often carved into volcanic rock, are a testament to human ingenuity and their ability to adapt to the environment. Over the years, the levadas have become an important part of the network of unique trails that allow visitors to explore the most remote and beautiful corners of the island while following in the footsteps of its ancient builders. It is a historical and natural legacy that makes Madeira a truly special destination for hiking and adventure lovers.
