Vereda dos Balcões is a short and easy walk, covering 1.5 km each way (a total of 3 km there and back). It leads to the stunning Balcões viewpoint. Parking can be tricky, especially since this is one of the most popular trails in Madeira, but it’s definitely worth it.

The trail starts along the ER 103 regional road in Ribeiro Frio and takes around 1.5 hours to complete. This walk is fairly straightforward, following the Levada da Serra do Faial. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and may spot some unique flora and fauna that are endemic to Madeira.

If your little ones love feeding birds, you can buy a small bag of birdseed at Snack Bar Flor da Selva, which you’ll pass on the walk. Please avoid feeding them bread, as it’s harmful to their health.

The landscape offers vibrant shades of green, typical of Madeira’s Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep an eye out for native trees like laurel and barbusano.

At the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at Balcões viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views. On clear days, you can see the Fajã da Nogueira hydroelectric station and the island’s central mountain peaks, including Pico do Arieiro, Pico das Torres, and Pico Ruivo, the highest point on Madeira.

Optional stop: After the walk, consider visiting the Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, where you can check out the Rainbow Trout Breeding Centre, which is always a hit with kids!

Details:

• Distance: 1.5 km (3 km round trip)

• Difficulty: Easy

• Duration: 1.5 hours

• Start/End: E.R. 103 (Ribeiro Frio) / Balcões

• Max/Max altitude: 880 m / 870 m