Hidden Corners: Levada Walk From Funchal

Tucked away in the lush São Jorge Valley of Madeira lies an unforgettable hiking adventure. The "Hidden Corners: Levada Walk" from Funchal guides travelers along 8 miles of scenic levadas, showcasing the island’s vibrant native flora and serene waterfalls. Rated 5.0 stars by previous participants, this 8-hour tour combines stunning natural landscapes with insights into Madeiran culture and ecology. With round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide provided, this challenging yet rewarding experience offers a unique glimpse into a side of Madeira that visitors rarely get to see. But to truly understand the allure of this levada walk, one must…

Good To Know

• This 8-hour guided hiking tour in the São Jorge Valley, Madeira, covers 8 miles (13 km) along a scenic levada with a 5.0-star rating from 12 travelers.
• The hike offers stunning views of mountains and valleys, encounters with native Madeiran flora, and a tranquil waterfall experience.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and all taxes/fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
• The tour is not suitable for all travelers, as it involves navigating narrow paths and uneven terrain, requiring proper footwear.
• Levadas have a rich history dating back centuries, serving as vital irrigation canals that have shaped Madeira’s landscapes and traditional way of life.

Overview of the Tour

This guided hiking tour, titled "Hidden Corners: Levada Walk from Funchal," takes visitors on an 8-hour journey through the scenic São Jorge Valley in Madeira, Portugal.

Covering 8 miles (13 km), the tour follows a Madeiran levada, or irrigation canal, through lush landscapes and forests.

With an overall 5.0-star rating from 12 travelers, 100% of whom recommend the experience, this excursion promises scenic views, native plants, a peaceful waterfall, and access to less-developed areas of the island.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and all taxes and fees, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Madeira’s natural wonders.

Hiking Experience

Hikers follow a levada, Madeira’s iconic irrigation canals, as they wind through the lush, verdant landscapes of the São Jorge Valley.

The trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders, including:

• Scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Encounters with native Madeiran flora, such as vibrant wildflowers and ancient laurel forests
• A peaceful waterfall where hikers can stop and take in the tranquil setting
• Less-developed areas of the island, providing a glimpse into Madeira’s traditional way of life
• An immersive experience in the island’s unique levada system, a testament to Madeira’s engineering ingenuity.

Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are a must, and hikers should pack a lunch, as no food options are available along the route.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation from select hotels in Funchal.

A professional guide, knowledgeable about levada construction, local flora, and fauna, accompanies hikers throughout the experience.

All taxes and fees are covered, making it a hassle-free outing.

Pickup is available directly from your preferred meeting point or from other Funchal locations upon request.

At the end of the hike, the activity concludes back at the original meeting point.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable levada walk through Madeira’s stunning landscapes.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour starts at 9:00 am, with pickup available from select Funchal hotels around 8:30 am.

Pickup options include:

• Directly at your preferred meeting point
• Request pickup from other Funchal locations for your convenience
• The activity concludes at the original meeting point

This allows you to start your levada walk from Funchal on time and avoids the hassle of arranging your own transportation.

The professional guide will be there to greet you and lead you through the scenic São Jorge Valley.

With all taxes and fees included, all you need to bring is your sturdy shoes and a packed lunch for the 8-hour guided hike.

Accessibility and Limitations

This tour may not be suitable for all travelers. It isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant individuals.

The hike along the levada involves navigating narrow paths and uneven terrain, which could be challenging for some. Proper footwear, such as sturdy shoes or hiking boots, is essential to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Plus, there are no food options available during the tour, so participants must bring their own packed lunch.

Travelers should carefully consider their physical abilities and limitations before booking this excursion to ensure it aligns with their hiking capabilities and preferences.

Levada History and Construction

Levadas, Madeira’s iconic network of irrigation canals, have a rich history that dates back centuries.

These intricate channels were engineered to transport water from the island’s abundant mountain streams to the drier regions below.

The construction of levadas was a remarkable feat of human ingenuity, often involving:

• Carving paths through mountainous terrain
• Building aqueducts and tunnels to navigate steep slopes
• Utilizing gravity to channel water without the need for pumps
• Carefully designing the gradient to ensure steady water flow
• Employing thousands of workers to physically construct the canals

Today, these levadas not only provide essential water resources but also offer captivating hiking trails that showcase Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes.

Native Flora and Fauna

Madeira’s lush landscapes harbor a diverse array of native flora and fauna, which hikers on the Levada Walk can discover.

Along the trail, walkers may spot indigenous plants like the Madeira Mahogany and the beautiful Madeira Laurel.

Birds such as the Madeira Firecrest and the Zino’s Petrel, both found only on the island, make their homes in the surrounding forests.

Hikers must remain vigilant, as the path winds through the natural habitats of the Madeiran wall lizard and the Iberian Chiffchaff.

Traveler Ratings and Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Hidden Corners: Levada Walk from Funchal, with a perfect 5.0-star rating from 12 total reviews.

The tour has received:

• 9 five-star reviews praising the scenic views, native flora, and peaceful waterfall
• 3 four-star reviews highlighting the challenging but rewarding hiking experience
• 100% recommendation rate from all travelers

The combination of stunning Madeiran landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and convenient transportation make this levada walk a must-do activity for visitors to Funchal.

With free cancellation and infant seats available, this tour provides an accessible and unforgettable way to explore the lesser-known corners of Madeira.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Challenging Is the Hiking Terrain Overall?

The hiking terrain is moderately challenging, with narrow levada paths and some uneven, rocky sections. Sturdy shoes or boots are required, and it’s not recommended for those with back problems or mobility issues.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no restrooms along the 8-mile trail. Hikers should plan ahead and use facilities before the tour starts. The guided tour does not include stops for restroom breaks during the hike.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The hiking trail and levada route are not suitable for bringing animals along, as it could be unsafe and disruptive to the group experience. Only service animals are permitted.

Is There an Option to Shorten the Hike if Needed?

While the full hike is 8 miles, the tour operator may be able to accommodate a shorter option if needed. Guests should discuss any concerns about the full distance with the guide before the start of the tour.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The recommended attire for the tour is sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Travelers should wear comfortable, weatherproof clothing as the hike traverses lush landscapes and forests. It’s also advisable to bring a packed lunch, as no food purchases are available along the route.

The Sum Up

The "Hidden Corners: Levada Walk" from Funchal offers an unforgettable hiking adventure through Madeira’s stunning landscapes. Rated 5.0 stars, the tour covers 8 miles of picturesque levadas, showcasing the island’s vibrant native flora and serene waterfalls. While the terrain can be challenging, the experience provides a unique glimpse into traditional Madeiran life and the island’s fascinating ecology, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Funchal.