Madeira: Private 1.5-Kilometer Levada Dos Balcões Hike PR11

Madeira, the lush Portuguese island, offers a captivating outdoor experience with the Levada dos Balcões hike. This private 1.5-kilometer trail winds through a UNESCO-protected laurel forest, showcasing the island’s stunning biodiversity. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a casual walker, this guided tour promises a tranquil escape into Madeira’s natural wonders. From endemic flora to elusive wildlife, the sights along the way are sure to leave a lasting impression.

About Your Stay

• The Levada dos Balcões hike, also known as PR11, is a 1.5-kilometer trail located in Madeira, Portugal, recommended by 100% of travelers.
• The hike features a UNESCO-listed laurel forest, offering opportunities to observe endemic Madeiran wildlife like chaffinches and Madeira firecrests.
• The trail provides a peaceful escape and connection with Madeira’s natural wonders, including towering ferns, mossy boulders, and vibrant greenery.
• The tour package includes hotel/port/apartment pickup and drop-off, private vehicle transportation, and optional lunch at a local restaurant.
• The hike is suitable for most visitors seeking a scenic walk without extensive hiking, with a starting price of $64.16 per person.

Overview of the Levada Dos Balcões Hike

The Levada dos Balcões hike, also known as PR11, is a private 1.5-kilometer trail in Madeira, Portugal.

Recommended by 100% of travelers based on 18 reviews, it’s suitable for most visitors seeking a scenic walk without extensive hiking.

The trail begins in Ribeiro Frio, offering views of mountain peaks like Ruivo and Arieiro.

Hikers can expect to pass through a UNESCO-listed laurel forest, with opportunities to observe local wildlife, especially birds.

The private tour ensures a personalized experience, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore Madeira’s natural beauty at a leisurely pace.

Exploring the Laurel Forest

As hikers embark on the Levada dos Balcões trail, they’ll find themselves immersed in the UNESCO-listed laurel forest that lines the path.

This unique ecosystem is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the endemic birds that call the laurel trees home.

Towering ferns, mossy boulders, and vibrant greenery create a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Hikers can keep an eye out for Madeiran chaffinches, Madeira firecrests, and other avian species as they wind through the lush foliage.

The laurel forest offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with Madeira’s natural wonders.

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

Along the Levada dos Balcões hike, hikers can spot a variety of endemic Madeiran wildlife.

The laurel forest provides a habitat for Madeiran chaffinches, Trocaz pigeons, and Madeiran firecrests. Birdwatchers may also glimpse the rare Zino’s petrel, a seabird found only on Madeira.

Plus, hikers may encounter Madeiran wall lizards, a subspecies found exclusively on the island.

The diverse ecosystem supports a range of flora and fauna, making the hike an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to observe Madeira’s unique biodiversity.

Staying alert and moving quietly increases the chances of wildlife sightings along the trail.

Tour Inclusions and Booking Details

The Levada dos Balcões hike package includes several convenient features to enhance the experience.

Travelers can enjoy hotel/port/apartment pickup and drop-off, as well as transport by private vehicle with free onboard WiFi. The tour also provides a flashlight when applicable and comprehensive insurance coverage.

Plus, an optional lunch at a local restaurant is available for an additional fee. Booking is easy, with confirmation received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Flexible options include free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand and pay later arrangements. The price starts at $64.16 per person, varying by group size.

Key inclusions:

• Private vehicle transport
• Hotel/port/apartment pickup and drop-off
• Free onboard WiFi
• Flashlight and insurance
• Optional local lunch

Questions About Your Stay

Is the Hike Suitable for Young Children?

The hike is not ideal for young children, as it requires participants to be accompanied by an adult. The terrain may be challenging for small children, though they are allowed on the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Picnic Lunch?

You can bring your own picnic lunch, but there’s also an optional lunch at a local restaurant available for an additional fee. The tour allows flexibility for participants to decide what dining option works best for them.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

No, there are no restroom facilities along the trail. Hikers should plan accordingly before the start of the hike. However, the tour includes hotel/port/apartment pickup and drop-off, so travelers can use facilities at their accommodations.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Hike?

Yes, the duration of the hike can be extended. Travelers can discuss options with the driver/local guide to customize the experience and explore the scenic trail for a longer period, subject to availability and additional fees.

How Difficult Is the Terrain Compared to Other Levada Hikes?

The terrain is relatively easy compared to other levada hikes, as it’s a gentle, scenic walk suitable for most travelers. While not as strenuous as some levada routes, it still offers opportunities to observe local wildlife and vegetation.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty on this private Levada dos Balcões hike. Winding through a UNESCO-listed laurel forest, you’ll encounter endemic flora and fauna, including the Madeiran chaffinch and Zino’s petrel. With personalized transport, optional lunch, and guided expertise, this hike offers a tranquil escape into Madeira’s stunning biodiversity.