In a nutshell
- Levadas are ancient irrigation channels on Madeira, with hiking trails running right alongside them — a levada hike is an absolute must on any Madeira vacation.
- In this article, we explain exactly what levadas are and walk you through 5 of the best levada hikes on Madeira — from easy strolls to full-day adventures.
- For each hike, we give you practical tips on duration, difficulty, and how to get there. Let’s go!
What Are the Levadas on Madeira?
Levadas are water channels on Madeira that look like small canals or streams. They were artificially constructed to route rainwater from rain-heavy regions across the entire island.
The history of the levadas dates back to the 15th century, when the first water channels were built. To this day, many levadas are still used as an irrigation system.
Since there are trails along every levada, you can walk right alongside the water channels, take great photos, and soak up the incredible scenery.
No wonder, then, that levada hikes are among the most popular activities on Madeira.
The 5 Most Beautiful Levada Hikes on Madeira
There are a huge number of levada hikes on Madeira — so many that we can’t even tell you exactly how many there are in total.
That’s why we’ve picked out five truly fantastic levada walks for you, with something for every fitness level.
Also read our packing list for a hiking vacation
The Levada Hikes on Madeira on a Map
To give you a better overview of where on Madeira the five levada hikes are located, we’ve marked them all on a map.
Levada das 25 Fontes
- Length: Approximately 10 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Name: PR 6 / PR 6.1
- Start/End Point: ER 105 Rabaçal Parking Lot, Rabaçal Forestry House
The trail along the Levada dos 25 Fontes is one of the most popular hikes on Madeira. It’s always busy — but you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramas, waterfalls, and a diverse landscape.
Since this levada hike involves a fair amount of uphill and downhill, it can be strenuous in places — but the path stays solid underfoot throughout.
Route of the Levada dos 25 Fontes Hike
You start at the parking lot in Rabaçal and follow PR6 toward the forestry house. Once there, take the path to the left of the building. From there, you walk a short stretch along the Levada dos 25 Fontes.
The next highlights are the Miradouro do Paul and the 25 Fontes spring with its waterfall.
From there, continue along PR6 until it meets PR6.1. Turn off here and follow the Levada do Risco to the Risco Waterfall — the absolute highlight of the whole hike!
From the waterfall, head back along the same path to the junction, then continue along PR6 to the forestry house, where the hike ends.
Getting to the Levada dos 25 Fontes Hike
If you’re driving, park at the Rabaçal parking lot and start your hike from there.
The forestry house, which marks the end of the trail, is about two kilometers from the parking lot. After the hike, you’ll need to walk back those two kilometers — or hop on the shuttle back to the parking lot.
Alternatively, you can book a guided tour or a transfer from Funchal.
Book the guided Levada das 25 Fontes hike
Book the transfer for the Levada das 25 Fontes hike
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
- Length: 17.4 kilometers (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 4–7 hours
- Name: PR9
- Start/End Point: Parque Florestal das Queimadas
The trail to Caldeirão Verde is one of the longest and most spectacular levada walks on Madeira — a serious treat if you love hiking. It’s also counted among the top sights on Madeira.
Route of the Caldeirão Verde Hike
On this levada hike, you walk right alongside the levada the entire way.
You’ll pass through several tunnels, so a headlamp is a good idea — though your phone flashlight will do the job in a pinch.
Keep in mind that the trail gets quite narrow in some spots. If you have a serious fear of heights, this particular hike might not be for you.
After just under six kilometers, you’ll arrive at an impressive waterfall: the Caldeirão Verde. From here, you retrace your steps back to Queimadas.
Getting to the Levada do Caldeirão Verde
If you’re driving, you can park at the Queimadas parking lot. Bring cash — the parking fees are low.
Alternatively, book a transfer from Funchal.
Book the transfer for the Caldeirão Verde hike
If you don’t have much hiking experience, it’s really worth booking a guided tour for this one.
Book the guided Caldeirão Verde levada hike
Levada do Rei
- Length: 10.6 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 2.5–4 hours
- Name: PR18
- Start/End Point: Quinta Levada do Rei
The Levada do Rei hike is manageable for any hiker, since there’s very little elevation change. It’s also comparatively uncrowded — a nice bonus.
Route of the Levada do Rei Hike
This levada hike starts and ends at the Quinta Levada do Rei restaurant in the village of São Jorge. From there, you walk through forests and follow the Levada do Rei the whole way.
Along the route, you’ll enjoy lovely views and pass by a variety of plant species.
The highlight comes after about five kilometers: the Ribeiro Bonito waterfall. Note that the last stretch to the waterfall involves a bit of scrambling over rocks.
From Ribeiro Bonito, you retrace your steps back to São Jorge.
Getting to the Levada do Rei
You can easily get here by car — there’s a parking lot right at Quinta Levada do Rei.
If you’d rather hike with a guide, book a guided tour from Funchal.
Book the guided Levada do Rei hike
Levada da Serra do Faial (Vereda dos Balcões)
- Length: 3 kilometers (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Name: PR11
- Start/End Point: Casa do Ribeiro Frio
If you don’t want a big hike but simply want to experience a levada on Madeira, this is the perfect spot. The trail to the Balcões viewpoint is a super easy levada walk and ideal for anyone on a Madeira road trip.
Route of the Levada da Serra do Faial Hike
The trail is officially called Vereda dos Balcões and starts in the village of Ribeiro Frio. From there, you walk about 1.5 kilometers alongside the Levada da Serra do Faial.
The path is flat, wide, and genuinely easy. At the end, you reach the Balcões viewpoint — the vistas from here are seriously incredible. Then you retrace your steps back.
Getting to the Levada da Serra do Faial
If you’re driving, we recommend arriving early — parking spots are limited.
Alternatively, take bus line 56 from Funchal to Ribeiro Frio — just be aware that it runs very infrequently.
Levada Nova & Levada do Moinho
- Length: 8 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Start/End Point: Igreja da Lombada
Since the Levada Nova and the Levada do Moinho run almost parallel to each other, you can easily combine the two trails into one satisfying loop hike.
Route of the Levada Nova Hike
At the Lombada church near Ponta do Sol, you first follow the path along the Levada do Moinho. The incline is gentle, so it’s not too strenuous.
After about four kilometers, a path leads up to the Levada Nova, which flows just a few meters above the Levada do Moinho.
Shortly after switching over, you’ll pass the waterfall shown in the photo, where you walk through a half-open tunnel — seriously cool!
From there, the Levada Nova carries you back in the direction of Ponta do Sol.
Note: Some sections along the Levada Nova aren’t very well secured. Watch your step carefully here.
The Levada Nova trail ends about 800 meters from the Igreja da Lombada.
Getting to the Levada Nova
Parking is tight at the trailhead. Your best bet is to find a spot somewhere nearby along the roadside.
If you’d rather not tackle this one solo, book a guided hiking tour — transfer and guide are included.
Book the guided hike along the Levada Nova
Frequently Asked Questions About the Levadas on Madeira
Where does the water for the levadas on Madeira come from?
From rain-rich areas in the north of the island.
Due to high rainfall and natural springs, water volumes in some parts of Madeira are very high — making the levada system both practical and impressive.
How old are the levadas on Madeira?
The first levadas were built in the 15th century.
The irrigation system was further expanded in the mid-17th century and many channels are still in use today.
How difficult are the levada hikes on Madeira?
Most levada hikes are moderately difficult.
There’s usually some uphill and downhill involved, but it’s rarely very steep and the trails are generally solid underfoot.
That said, because of all the water nearby, levada trails can sometimes be muddy and slippery — good footwear makes a real difference.
Where is the best place to stay to see the levadas on Madeira?
Honestly, you can stay pretty much anywhere on Madeira and still access the levadas — they flow through all parts of the island.
For hotel recommendations, check out our guides:
