HIKING IN MADEIRA This article will contain a short description of some of the most beautiful trail that Madeira has to offer. I won’t detail every trail here, but if the subject is getting some attention I will write some other article describing additional trail. I have a lot to say for now, so let’s get started.
First, Madeira is part of Portugal. It is a small island in the Atlantic at the same altitude of Casa Blanca, Morocco. It is closer to Africa than Europe is. Around 270000 people lives in the island. Funchal is the lovely capital and you can easily make it your base for hiking the entire island. There are numerous bus services but for some trail you will need a car.
The climate is tropical and good for hiking almost years ‘round. In summer, weather is warm (There may be some afternoon really hot) and nights are fresh. Spring, fall and even winter are ok for a hike.
Maderia is well known for their wine, their flower and their artisan work, but what few people know is that Madeira is full of beautiful hiking trail. What makes’ Madeira trail particular is that the island is mountainous and contains a lots of levadas. Levadas were built to carry water for agriculture area mostly in the south part of the island.
Some levadas are easy to walk but still offer splendid view and other are more difficult and demand not to be prone to vertigo. But enough introduction, let’s gets into the detail.
Sao Lourenco: This trail is located at the north east part of the island. It is a rocky peninsula with constant view of the sea. It is easy to hike, only 330 feet altitude. This trail is an excellent choice to start and exceptionally, it is not a levada. You will encounter a lot of small lizard running for a hide when you get near them. This hike is only 2 hour and a half so take your time and enjoy. Don’t forget to bring something to swim. On your way back there is a nice place to swim.
Pico do Arieiro : This is a must. With this trail you will be doing the three highest mountain of the island (Pico do Arieiro, Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo). You will climb 2640 feet during the day but you will be rewarded with spectacular view along the way. When at the top of Pico Ruivo, climb the final stair for a view all around the island. Don’t start this trail too late because clouds tend to accumulate from the valley to the top of those peaks around noon so you will not be able to have the privilege of this wonderful view.
Levada do Curral : Don’t do this levada in any condition. It is closed and very dangerous.
Pico Ruivo do Paul: This one is a family trail. It has only 165 feet altitude and no exposure to height. For a short walk (1h30 total) you get a remarkable view. There is even picnic possibility on the way.
Risco Fall and 25 fuentes: Those are two hikes combined because it is worth doing together. You don’t have to walk the long approach by foot anymore. There is a shuttle for around 3 Euros that will take you to the start of the trails and bring you back at the end of the day. Total altitude for both are 330 feet and you can bring all the family (Make sure everybody have good shoes and can walk for a couple of hours). You will first see the impressive Risco Fall. And on your way back you can branch for the 25 fuentes trail. This last one is a good place to picnic with the family and watch the beautiful scene.
That is all for now. Hope you enjoy those short descriptions and if this kind of information is appreciate, I will write more article of other place in the world.
