Hidden Corners: Levada Walk From Funchal

Madeira’s ancient levadas offer a captivating journey through the island’s lush natural landscapes. Hikers can discover the São Jorge Valley‘s vibrant flora and fauna, including endemic birds and medicinal plants. Along the way, they’ll encounter picturesque waterfalls, where they can walk behind the cascading water and capture breathtaking photographs. With a guided tour, visitors learn about the ecological significance of these levadas while seeing Madeira’s breathtaking scenery. But what secrets do these hidden corners hold?

Key Points

• Discover Madeira’s oldest 16th-century levadas, historic water channels that transport water from the mountains to the coast.
• Explore the picturesque São Jorge Valley, home to native plants, herbs, and a captivating waterfall.
• Immerse in Madeira’s lush landscapes and diverse flora, with a guide explaining medicinal and culinary uses.
• Venture behind the stunning waterfall for a unique perspective and refreshing respite.
• Navigate the remote 8-mile hike through the São Jorge Valley, requiring sturdy shoes and a packed lunch.

Discovering Madeira’s Oldest Levadas

As you embark on the Levada Walk from Funchal, you’ll have the opportunity to discover Madeira’s oldest levadas, dating back to the 16th century.

These historic water channels were ingeniously constructed to transport water from the island’s mountainous interior to the coastal regions.

Along the way, your guide will point out the unique flora and fauna that thrive in the levada’s lush, shaded environment.

From medicinal plants to endemic bird species, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s diverse and well-preserved natural heritage during this immersive hike.

Exploring the São Jorge Valley

The Levada Walk from Funchal takes hikers through the picturesque São Jorge Valley, a lush and verdant landscape nestled in the heart of Madeira.

Trekkers will explore the island’s oldest levadas, dating back to the 16th century, while surrounded by:

• Native plants and herbs
• A captivating waterfall, with the opportunity to walk behind the cascading water
• Panoramic views of the valley’s rolling hills and rugged terrain
• A remote, tranquil setting ideal for appreciating Madeira’s natural beauty

The moderate hike covers 8 miles (13 km) and offers an immersive experience in the island’s diverse ecosystems.

Taking in Lush Landscapes and Native Plants

Trekkers on the Levada Walk from Funchal can expect to enjoy Madeira’s lush landscapes and diverse native plant life. The trail winds through the São Jorge Valley, offering ample opportunities to observe the island’s unique flora.

Guided by the tour leader, hikers will learn about the medicinal and culinary uses of the herbs and plants they encounter. The highlight of the journey is reaching a picturesque waterfall, where adventurous trekkers can slip behind the cascading water.

With sturdy shoes and a packed lunch, visitors can fully experience Madeira’s natural wonders along this remote and well-preserved levada.

Chasing the Picturesque Waterfall

Where will trekkers come across the picturesque waterfall on the Levada Walk from Funchal?

As hikers progress along the Levada, they’ll reach a stunning waterfall cascading through the lush greenery. This is a highlight of the tour, offering an opportunity to venture behind the waterfall’s curtain of water.

Hikers can:

• Marvel at the waterfall’s natural beauty and power
• Step behind the waterfall for a unique perspective
• Capture remarkable photos of the cascading water
• Enjoy a refreshing respite before continuing the journey

The waterfall provides a memorable moment on the Levada Walk, allowing travelers to enjoy Madeira’s enchanting natural wonders.

Navigating the Remote Hike

Although the Levada Walk from Funchal promises breathtaking scenery, hikers should prepare for a remote and challenging trek.

This full-day hike covers 8 miles through the São Jorge Valley, traversing Madeira’s oldest levadas. Sturdy shoes and a packed lunch are musts, as there are no food vendors along the trail.

With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour provides a professional guide to navigate the remote paths and point out medicinal plants. Guests must have moderate fitness, as the hike isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious health conditions.

Weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key.

Preparing for the Tour

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Levada Walk from Funchal, hikers should carefully prepare for the remote and demanding trek. This full-day hike covers 8 miles through the lush São Jorge Valley, so sturdy shoes, a packed lunch, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.

Participants should also:

• Maintain a moderate level of physical fitness, as the trail isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant travelers.

• Confirm hotel pickup arrangements in advance, as alternative meeting points may incur an additional cost.

• Bring water, snacks, and sun protection to stay energized and protected on the trail.

• Be prepared for potential weather cancellations, which may result in rescheduling or full refunds.

Pickup and Cancellation Policies

The tour pickup and cancellation policies are important considerations for guests planning the Levada Walk from Funchal. Pickup is available from select Funchal hotels, with alternative arrangements possible for other locations at an additional cost. Guests should confirm their preferred pickup point in advance. As for cancellations, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour is weather-dependent, and alternative dates or full refunds are provided if canceled due to poor weather.

Pickup	Cancellation	Weather
Available from select Funchal hotels	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before	Alternative dates or full refunds offered
Alternative arrangements possible for other locations (additional cost)		if canceled due to poor weather
Guests should confirm preferred pickup point in advance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not suitable for children. It requires moderate physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible. Pregnant travelers and those with serious medical conditions are also advised against participating.

Can Vegetarian/Vegan Meals Be Provided?

The tour provider doesn’t specifically mention vegetarian or vegan meal options. However, guests are advised to bring their own packed lunch, so they can likely accommodate dietary needs if notified in advance. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator.

Are Walking Poles/Hiking Sticks Allowed?

Walking poles and hiking sticks are allowed and encouraged on this tour. They can provide additional stability and support during the moderate hike through the São Jorge Valley’s lush landscapes.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operators state that the hike is not suitable for animals, and the safety and enjoyment of all participants must be the top priority.

What Should I Do if I Have Mobility Issues?

If you have mobility issues, this tour may not be suitable as it requires moderate physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible. Contact the tour operator to discuss alternative tour options that better accommodate your needs.

The Sum Up

The "Hidden Corners: Levada Walk From Funchal" offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Madeira’s natural wonders. Hikers will traverse lush landscapes, encounter endemic flora and fauna, and witness captivating waterfalls. With a guided tour, participants can deepen their understanding of the ecological significance of the levadas while enjoying a serene escape into Madeira’s breathtaking scenery.