Referta Castelejo Levada Walk From Funchal

Madeira’s Referta Castelejo Levada Walk offers visitors a chance to enjoy the island’s stunning natural landscapes. This moderate 5.5 km hike showcases the region’s endemic flora, agricultural plots, and breathtaking vistas guided by a professional. Participants can expect a memorable adventure, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. What makes this tour so captivating, however, is the opportunity to witness Madeira’s unique environmental wonders up close.

Key Points

• This half-day hike through Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna covers a 5.5 km route starting in Refertas, Porto da Cruz, and ending at the Rock of Penha d’Aguia.
• The hike offers scenic views of agricultural plots, quaint houses, and crystalline lakes, and is recommended by 91% of travelers.
• The tour requires a moderate fitness level and includes a professional guide, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off from selected Funchal hotels.
• Additional charges apply for locations outside of Funchal, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible but allows service animals.
• Proper footwear, preparedness for changing weather conditions, and avoidance of the tour by travelers with certain medical conditions are recommended.

Overview and Experience

The Referta Castelejo Levada Walk is a gentle half-day hike through Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna, offering travelers an opportunity to experience the island’s natural beauty.

The 5.5 km route begins in Refertas, Porto da Cruz, leading to the Rock of Penha d’Aguia. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of agricultural plots, quaint houses, and crystalline lakes.

The walk is well-reviewed, with 91% of travelers recommending it, and it has earned a Badge of Excellence in Madeira, Portugal.

A moderate fitness level is required, and a professional guide is included to enhance the experience.

Tour Details

The Referta Castelejo Levada Walk is a half-day levada hike spanning 5.5 km, requiring a moderate fitness level from participants.

A professional guide is included to lead the way, and hotel pickup and drop-off from selected Funchal hotels are provided.

The tour also covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges.

Travelers have the option to meet at a direct meeting point or request a pickup, with additional charges for locations outside Funchal.

The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers have the option to either meet at a direct meeting point or request a pickup, with additional charges applying for locations outside of Funchal. The staff will confirm the pickup time and location. For those choosing a pickup, the activity ends back at the original meeting point.

Pickup Options	Cost
Direct Meeting Point	Included
Funchal Area	Extra Cost
Outside Funchal	Extra Cost
Wheelchair Accessible	No
Service Animals Allowed	Yes

What to Expect

The tour begins at 8:30 am. Guests should expect a moderate fitness level to complete the 5.5 km levada walk.

Proper footwear, such as sports shoes or hiking boots, is recommended for the uneven terrain. Travelers should also be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Madeira’s climate can be unpredictable.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available. Certain travelers, including those with back problems, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions, aren’t recommended to participate in this excursion.

The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers and includes:

1. Professional guide
2. Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected Funchal hotels
3. All taxes, fees, and handling charges

Reviews and Ratings

Based on the 22 reviews, the Referta Castelejo Levada Walk has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning natural beauty along the route. Many comments highlight the walk’s accessibility for various fitness levels, making it an enjoyable experience for hikers of diverse abilities.

The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior is also an appreciated perk.

At $35.29 per person, the Referta Castelejo Levada Walk offers a budget-friendly way to explore Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna with a lowest price guarantee.

Navigating the Referta Castelejo Levada Walk

Although the Referta Castelejo Levada Walk begins in Refertas, Porto da Cruz, the route leads trekkers on a gentle half-day hike through Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna, culminating at the iconic Rock of Penha d’Aguia.

Along the way, hikers are treated to views of agricultural plots, quaint houses, and crystalline lakes. The 5.5 km trail requires a moderate fitness level and is best navigated with the assistance of a professional guide.

Key considerations for this experience include:

1. Proper footwear (sports shoes or hiking boots)
2. Preparedness for changing weather conditions
3. Avoiding the activity if you have back problems, are pregnant, or have serious medical conditions.

Highlights Along the Trail

As hikers embark on the Referta Castelejo Levada Walk, they’re treated to a visual feast of Madeira’s stunning landscapes. The route leads them through lush, verdant paths lined with endemic flora, like the iconic laurel trees. Quaint agricultural plots and whitewashed houses dot the hillsides, offering glimpses into local life. A highlight is the striking Rock of Penha d’Aguia, towering above the trail. Along the way, hikers may spot endemic birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The gentle, moderate terrain makes this walk accessible to a range of fitness levels.

Landscape Features	Flora	Fauna
Agricultural Plots	Laurel Trees	Endemic Birds
Whitewashed Houses	Wildflowers	Insects
Rock of Penha d’Aguia	Moss-covered Rocks	Small Mammals
Crystalline Lakes	Ferns	Lizards
Verdant Paths	Grasses	Butterflies

Preparing for Your Levada Adventure

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable levada walk, travelers should prepare appropriately. The Referta Castelejo Levada Walk requires a moderate fitness level, so it’s important to wear proper footwear and dress in layers.

Recommended items include:

1. Sports shoes or hiking boots with good traction.
2. Lightweight, breathable clothing that can withstand changing weather conditions.
3. Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Plus, bringing water and snacks is advised, as the trail doesn’t have any refreshment stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed on the Hike?

Photography is generally allowed on the hike. Travelers are encouraged to capture the scenic views and endemic flora and fauna they encounter during the walk, as long as they don’t disturb the group or the natural environment.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and water. The tour doesn’t provide snacks or drinks, so it’s recommended to come prepared with sufficient sustenance and hydration for the 5.5 km moderate hike through Madeira’s scenic landscapes.

How Difficult Is the Terrain Compared to Other Levada Walks?

The terrain for this levada walk is considered moderate, with some gentle inclines and uneven surfaces. It’s not as challenging as some other levada walks, making it accessible for hikers with a reasonable fitness level.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

Based on the information provided, there don’t appear to be any restroom facilities along the Referta Castelejo Levada Walk trail. The tour details indicate it’s a moderate 5.5 km hike, so hikers should plan accordingly before starting the walk.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Walk?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour. However, the trail is not recommended for regular pets, as they may not be able to handle the moderate fitness level required and changing weather conditions along the route.

The Sum Up

The Referta Castelejo Levada Walk from Funchal offers an immersive exploration of Madeira’s captivating natural landscapes. This moderate hike, guided by a professional, showcases the island’s endemic flora, scenic beauty, and agricultural heritage. Equipped with proper gear and readiness for changing weather, participants can look forward to a memorable adventure, complete with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience. Highly rated, this tour ensures an enriching experience for those seeking to discover Madeira’s unique environment.