Enter Portugal

Walks through the spectacular scenery of Madeira are facilitated by the network of irrigation channels (levadas) that run through the island. Built in the 15th and 16th centuries to distribute water from the wetter northern regions through the vineyards, orchards and gardens to the drier southern parts. The 2500kms of levadas provide footpaths through the hills, valleys, woods and along the coastline and are the perfect way to explore the island by foot.

Madeira Walks

Offering both guided and self-guided tours through different regions of Madeira lasting from 1-10 days.
www.madeirawalks.com

Sherpa Expeditions

8 days treks following the network of levadas and local trails through some of the most remote and mountainous parts of Madeira.
www.sherpa-walking-holidays.co.uk

Whilst it is possible to follow directions from walking guidebooks to find the various levadas, guidebooks often lack details about how safe individual levadas may be due to changes in humidity and occassional landslides that force some paths to be diverted. At the very least seek advice from local authorities and check local weather conditions before taking on some of the more ambitious walks.

There are a number of qualified guides who offer guided walks lasting from half a day to walks spread out over several days with overnight stays in hotels along the way. An experienced guide should be familiar with recent diversions and how paths will be effected by changes in the weather, but also able to provide some information about the history and local fauna that you encounter on the trek.

Some of the most popular walks take in the lakes of Madeira, such as Rabaçal with its beautiful waterfalls and 25 Fontes (a lake fed by 25 natural springs). In the summer make sure you pack your costume so you can enjoy a swim in the crystal clear waters of the mountain lakes.

Walks to Pico Ruivo (the highest point on the island) are also highly-rated, taking in the oldest surviving heather forest in the world and leading to the peak that at 1862 meters (6107 ft) high provides breath-taking views of the whole island.