If you are looking for the best Levada walks in Madeira, then you’ve come to the right place. Madeira is one of the top European destinations for outdoor walking adventures.
There is a plethora of flat and easy levada walks in Madeira. But just to be clear, what exactly are these Maderia Levadas?
The word Levada is a Portuguese word meaning a system of channels. Levadas are basically a series of paths that follow the route of irrigation channels and are usually surrounded by forest.
These Levada walks in Madeira are so beautiful they’ve become really popular. Now people venture to the island just to complete these rewarding walks.
Check out these 25 most beautiful Levadas in Madeira for your next island hiking holiday.
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25 Fountains Levada Walk, PR6
Also known as Levada das 25 Fontes, this is one of the most popular Madeira Levada walks. Unlike many of these walks, this one isn’t completely flat and there are some inclines along the way.
This walk starts and ends at the Rabaçal car park at road ER110. This Levada trail starts to descend through the forest where you will eventually find the thundering Risco waterfall.
There is also 25 fountains waterfall that’s mightily impressive after rainfall. You should bring your swimming gear, as you can have a refreshing dip in the waterfalls pool.
Unlike many of the easy Levada walks in Madeira this trail starts out with a few sets of stairs to reach the pool and waterfall.
Though they are not so steep, it is one of the more undulating walking trails in Madeira.
Whilst there are no facilities on the walk itself, there are toilets at the café at the beginning of the hike.
You’ll certainly need to come prepared with a torch because there’s a 2600-foot tunnel for you to go through!
As this is one of the most popular Madeira Levada walks, there is the opportunity to take a guided tour. An experienced local guide will lead you on this hike through the Laurissilva forest. Click here to see the latest prices.
- Distance: 4.6 km (+4.6 km return)
- Duration: 4 h
- Elevation: 350 m
- Level: Moderate
Levada do Caldeirão Verde, PR9
This is another of the best Levada walks in Madeira if you want to chase waterfalls. Located in Santana this walk will take you through tunnels, past waterfalls and through the Laurissilva forest.
As there are many waterfalls, there is ample opportunity for a quick and refreshing dip.
This hike starts at the Parque Floresta das Queimadas which is around a 45-minute drive from Funchal. It’s one of the best Levadas in Madeira because its relatively flat but still provides epic views.
Though the route is quite easy the last kilometre to Caldeirão do Inferno is uphill and includes a big set of stairs. When the trail becomes busy with people, as the paths are narrow you should take care.
Come prepared for tunnels on this Madeira Levada trail, there are five tunnels to reach Caldeirão Verde and two to Caldeirão do Inferno.
This Levada was built during the 18th century and eventually passes through steep cliffs to carry the water run-off from Madeira’s highest mountain, Pico Ruivo.
There’s nothing in the way of facilities on the trail but there is a fee-paying toilet in the car park. You’ll be needing some sturdy walking shoes.
Make sure you don’t forget the torch otherwise it will be a slow walk through these dark tunnels.
You can also take a guided tour for this walk. Though taking a guided tour isn’t necessary it will provide you with a ton of information about your surroundings that you wouldn’t otherwise get.
Click here to see the latest prices.
- Distance: 11.7 km
- Duration: 6h30
- Elevation: 1,265 m
- Level: Hard
Levada dos Cedros, PR14
Set out on this walk by yourself or with a guide. This five-hour guided hiking tour is led by a local guide and includes pick up and drop off at several locations.
If you are looking for easy levada walking in Madeira, head out on this walk. Starting out at Fanal Yhis this trail is relaxing and fairy-tale like in its surroundings.
Head to Regional Highway E.R. 209 at the parish of Ribeira da Janela to find the hike. The Levada dos Cedros was built in the 17th century, so not only are you among nature but you are surrounded by history.
The surrounding area of Fanal is a small volcanic hollow which has defined the landscape you see today. The path leads you through lush forest until you are rewarded with a stunning waterfall.
There’s a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall that is an ideal place to strip off and take a dip.
This hike is safe, with railings in place wherever there is a drop off. These Madeira levada walks can become muddy after rain so make sure you are always wearing walking boots.
- Distance: 7.2 km
- Duration: 3h
- Elevation: 250 m
- Level: Easy to Moderate
Levada Do Barreiro, PR4
This is one of the easy Levada walks near Funchal. To start this walk head to regional road 202 to Pico do Areeiro.
This route has expansive views over the Rieira de Santa Luzia valley and Funchal.
This is what most attracts people to this Levada near Funchal. Because it’s an easy, flat walking route, this is perfect for exploring with young kids.
The path from start to finish is mostly descending.
On this hike you’ll find Poço da Neve in the foreground. This 8m deep igloo dates to 1813 and was used to store ice during winter. A slice of Madeira history among the scenic natural views.
- Distance: 5.2 km
- Duration: 2h10
- Elevation: 675 m
- Level: Easy
Levada Do Moinho, PR7
Of the easy Levada walks in Madeira Levada Do Moinho is only flanked with a few staircases, so its relatively accessible. Starting near the Church of Lombada this Maderia walk is known for its epic waterfall.
The waterfall on this walking trial is its main highlight. The waterfall sits between two rock faces, and you can even walk behind the waterfall.
The remainder of the walk follows two Levadas with epic valley views.
Some of the pathway passes along the cliff side and is not protected by railings. Therefore, it’s important to take your time, make sure you are wearing suitable footwear and watch out for it being slippery.
You must also bring a torch with you as there is a 200-metre-long tunnel.
This walking route is located between Calheta and Funchal on the south coast of Madeira. Park right next to the church, there is also a toilet before you start the trial.
As it’s a fairly long route you may want to take a guided walking tour. The trail head starts at Portela and will impress even the most experienced hikers.
- Distance: 10.3 km
- Duration: 3h30
- Elevation: 436 m
- Level: Moderate
Levada do Furado – Ribeiro Frio – Portela, PR10
This Levada begins in Ribeiro Frio and is thought to be one of the first acquired to irrigate the Porto da Cruz farmland. The contract for this Levada is believed to have been signed in 1822 so it’s a historic walk.
This is another Madeira walk that takes you through the Laurissilva forest. The route is surrounded by laurel, bay trees, and Madeira mahogany to name a few types of flora.
The highlights of this Levada walking trail include seeing the firecrest (Madeira’s smallest bird), the green surroundings of the Laurissilva, and the waterfalls and tunnels.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Join the guided tour of the Levada Ribeiro Frio.
- Distance: 11 km
- Duration: 5h
- Elevation: 235 m
- Level: Moderate
Levada do Rei
Levada do Rei is one of the unmissable Madeira Levada walks. Situated in north Madeira in Santana this walk follows the Riberio Bonito stream through the jungle-like Laurissilva forest.
This walking route takes you right through a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, and you will be blown away by your continually impressive surroundings.
If you fancy an easier laid-back walk, why not go on a tour? This Levada do Rei hiking tour will take you through this route stopping at the Ribeiro Bonito and allowing for epic panoramic views of São Jorge.
To start this trail, you’ll need to head to the Water Treatment Plant at Quebradas in São Jorge.
There is a ton of indigenous vegetation surrounding the pathway and a variety of panoramic vistas and diverse landscapes to gawk at.
You’ll be passing through tunnels so come prepared (a headlamp would come in handy).
- Distance: 5.3 km (+5.3 km return)
- Duration: 3h30
- Elevation: 37 m
- Level: Moderate
Levada da Rocha Vermelha
This walking trail starts in Calheta and passes close by to the popular Levada das 25 Fontes. As it’s near a popular route this Madeira Levada walk is far less frequented.
Head there early and you may well have a lot of sections entirely to yourself.
Almost immediately you’ll head through a long tunnel which you’ll need a torch for. You’ll also need to protect your head as some of the parts are low.
It’s a long walk so don’t underestimate the climate and come prepared with extra clothes, a waterproof, and plenty of water.
As it’s a less well-known route you may want to take a guided tour. The intimacy of a private tour will allow you to learn more about the birds, flora, waterfalls, and history of the tunnels. Click here to see the latest prices.
Further along the trail there are some small ponds and waterfalls. This is an out-and-back trail, so you return along the same route from which you came.
- Distance: 17.5 km
- Duration: 6h
- Elevation: 871 m
- Level: Moderate
Vereda dos Balcões, PR11
Vereda dos Balcões is one of the top easy Levada walks in Madeira. The trail is considered easy because its flat. This has got to be one of the most stunning hikes on the entire island.
The route starts at Highway E.R. 103 at Ribeiro Frio and heads along the Levada of Serra do Faial, one of the most beautiful Levadas in Madeira. After some time, you will get to the most breathtaking viewpoint.
In clear weather, the views are simply spectacular. From the viewing balcony, you can see Madeira’s highest peak and the Ribeira da Metade valley.
To the right, you can see right out to the ocean, and towards the Penha D’Águia cliffs.
This is another of the best Levadas walks in Madeira that you can go on a private tour of. Click here to see the latest prices.
Some days you’ll find that the heavens open and the view becomes obscured, so definitely check the weather before you go.
Be sure to bring a waterproof anyway because the clouds can descend rapidly at this height.
- Distance: 3 km return
- Duration: 1h
- Elevation: 10 m
- Level: Easy
Levada da Ribeira da Janela
So, this is one of the longest Madeira Levada walks on this list. At a whopping 25km and at around 11 hours, this is no easy hike.
It begins in Lamaceiros in Porto Moniz. You must be prepared for all the elements on this hike and bring enough food and water.
This hike consists of nine tunnels, with one of them being 2km long, so if you don’t like the dark, perhaps leave this walk for someone else. Oh, and it’s imperative you bring a strong torch.
This is one of the best Levada walks in Madeira that will absolutely enthral adventure seekers.
If you want to backpack or camp on this trail it’s also possible, because it’s really an all-day early morning start kind of walk.
This scenic Madeira hike offers a view of the island’s unique flora and fauna. At the end of the hike as a reward for all those steps, there are a couple of lagoons which are deep enough to take a nice swim.
- Distance: 25 km
- Duration: 11h
- Elevation: 1,889 m
- Level: Hard
Levada do Norte
The Serra d’Agua valley is one of the less frequented hiking destinations in Madeira. It is home to the Levada do Norte, which is a beautiful walk tucked away in the valley.
The Levada do Norte is one the longest Levadas in Madeira at 75 kilometres. It’s not possible to walk the whole Levada in one day but overnighting is conceivable.
Though this Levada do Norte hiking route doesn’t cover the entire 75km it does provide walkers with incredible overgrown landscapes and a stunning jungle-esque environment.
This hiking route starts just below the Cabo Girão and heads towards the Boa Morte area.
There is the potential for seeing a lot of Madeira wildlife on this route, so many people opt for a guided walking tour. Local guides can inform you about some of the local species and also help you spot them.
On this three-hour hike, you’ll walk by grass fields, plantations, and small villages.
- Distance: 8.9 km
- Duration: 3h
- Elevation: 56 m
- Level: Easy to Moderate
Levada do Alecrim
Also known as the ‘Lakes of Madeira Island’, this is one of the best Levada walks in Madeira if you’re searching for waterfalls.
Head to the Rabaçal valley, this walking route starts and ends at Capela de Fátima and heads towards the Dona Beja lagoon.
One of the perks of this walk is that it’s accessible to many different people. If you are travelling with kids, the distance is manageable and the time it takes to walk is not so long.
Head out early on this hike and you’ll really be rewarded by the peaceful serenity of your surroundings.
You absolutely must pack some clothes for swimming and a towel, you can take a dip in any number of the route’s waterfalls.
There is also a guided tour offered for this walk. A full-day walking tour of Wind Lagoon along the Levada do Alecrim is an exciting Madeira activity to try. This walking tour is offered in English, Portuguese, French, and German.
Click here to see the latest prices.
- Distance: 6.8 km
- Duration: 2h
- Elevation: 39 m
- Level: Easy
Levada Fajã do Rodrigues, PR16
Check out the northern part of Madeira in São Vicente for access to this next Levada walk. This trail goes by another name, Levada Fajã da Ama.
It starts in Ginjas and leads walkers to the Ribeira do Inferno.
Definitely come prepared with a torch as this Levada does involve tunnels. Though it’s a relatively short hike in comparison to some others on Madeira you should come prepared for all conditions.
The reward for this 3.9km hike is an imposing canyon which features a number of waterfalls. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at the end of the trail before turning back.
Sit by one of the lagoons listening to nature and you’ll completely forget where you are. The beauty of the Madeira Levadas.
If you want to learn more about this levada, you can also join the guided tour. Prices here.
- Distance: 3.9 km (+3.9 km return)
- Duration: 3h30
- Elevation: 30 m
- Level: Easy to Moderate
Caminho do Pinaculo e Folhadal, PR17
This picturesque walk follows two Levadas, Serra and Norte. The route starts at the beginning of Highway E.E. 110 heading towards Paul da Serra.
This is one of the best Levada walks in Madeira for views of the São Vicente Valley. This walk also highlights the architecture and heritage of the area. It was one of the public pathways used by islanders to travel from the north to the south side of Madeira.
Like many Madeira walking trails this route has numerous tunnels to walk through. At some point along your hike the Levada will split into two. The Levada do Norte is the channel used to power Serra d’Água’s hydroelectric plant.
At points along the trail, you can see the two highest peaks in Madeira, Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro which stand at 1861m and 1817m respectively.
- Distance: 15 km
- Duration: 6h30
- Elevation: 520 m
- Level: Hard
Levada do Caniçal – Pico do Facho
If you are searching for one of the best Levada walks in Madeira that showcases all the islands landscapes, then this is for you. Levada do Caniçal to Pico do Facho covers an array of vistas. There’s the Levada, a coastal path, and mountainous areas.
This route starts at the old tunnel by Machico that connects to Caniçal. This is one of the easy Levada walks in Madeira as the path is clear and flat. You can expect to see impressive views of the former whaling village of Caniçal.
Unlike many of these Madeira Levada trails that are in the thick forest, this walking route is more exposed. By the coast you can expect some stronger winds, and during the hot summer months you’ll be exposed to the sun. Be sure to pack plenty of water and sun cream, though this is an easy hike, don’t underestimate the elements.
- Distance: 11 km
- Duration: 4h
- Elevation: 18 m
- Level: Easy
Lagoa do Vento
Lagoa do Vento is a relatively short walk but one that’s a little tricky in places. This walk is suitable for those seeking a real adventure. It is also one of Madeira’s hidden gems.
This trail starts at the aforementioned, Levada do Alecrim in the magnificent area of Rabaçal. You’ll be able to follow the Levada until you see a path detouring off towards Lagoa do Vento. At this detour the path becomes much denser in vegetation and in places slippery from the overflowing streams and waterfalls. Make sure you have sturdy shoes and walk with caution.
You’ll soon come across the Lagoa do Vento a magnificent lagoon. Strip off down to your trunks or swimming costume and cool off in the water.
- Distance: 6.7 km
- Duration: 4 h
- Elevation: 332 m
- Level: Hard
Levada da Ribeira da Janela – Option 2
This Levada da Ribeira da Janela is a shorter variation on the other Ribeira hiking route. This is a circular walking trail which starts and ends at Regional Road 110. This walk takes you through Levada do Brasileiro and bits of the Levada do Moinho, two Levadas in one Madeira walk.
This route is labelled as ‘hard’ because the path does become steep at some point as it goes further into the Laurissilva forest to get to the Levada.
There’s the opportunity to swim at the Lagoa do Bardo. It’s a great spot to take a break and relax before heading on.
- Distance: 13 km
- Duration: 4h
- Elevation: 406 m
- Level: Hard
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