This is truly a fantastic trail with beautiful views of the São Vicente mountains, located in the north of Madeira.

I never have trouble with my fear of heights on this hike, but what I do find a bit nerve-wracking are the dark tunnels. Be extra careful not to accidentally hit your head on the sharp rocks sticking out. Some tunnels are quite low, but luckily, no crawling is needed! However, I personally skip the last tunnel. It’s 1 kilometer long and very uncomfortable. The narrow ledge you walk on is quite small, while the levada itself is wide - so if you lose your balance, it’s tricky to step aside. After 15 minutes inside, I started feeling claustrophobic and turned back.

Is it worth going all the way to the end? For me, it’s not. I’ve seen photos of the small lake and waterfall at the end, but to get there, you’ll need to walk through that long tunnel twice. The choice is yours!

The trail itself up to that point is about 11 kilometers long and is known for its moderate difficulty, making it suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners.

One of the highlights of the walk is the view over Fajã do Rodrigues, a scenic spot that’s perfect for a break to soak in the peaceful surroundings. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and your camera - this route is full of picture-perfect moments!

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PAYING FOR HIKES

Since October 28, 2024, you need to pay a small fee of €3 to access all PR routes. You can either pay in advance online or scan the QR code at the start of the hike to pay on the spot. Click here for more information.

IMPORTANT:

Due to maintenance, landslides, or falling rocks, some trails may be temporarily closed. Check the updated list here: List of open & closed Levada's

It’s also important to note that not all hikes are classified as PR routes—which are the official trails recommended by the government—and therefore may not appear on the IFCN list.

Be aware that trails not classified as PR routes are not regularly maintained, as their primary purpose is to irrigate farmland, not to serve as walking paths.