Madeira has become one of Europe’s most exotic destinations. I can easily see why: the island offers an incredible variety of landscapes. From lush green forests and UNESCO World Heritage sites to unique volcanic cliffside trails, wild pebbles beaches and rustic villages, that’s how I would describe this remarkable island.
One of the best activities in Madeira is hiking. Many tourists come here to experience and enjoy its luxuriant nature. One of the great things about the island is that it offers trails for all fitness levels. If you’re looking for something easier, I’ve prepared a list of the best easy Levada walks in Madeira.
If you want a full plan plus everything you need to know before going in Madeira, take a look at this:
Best Easy Levada Walks in Madeira
Even though I said only Levada walks, I would like to mention two more routes at the end that are not Levada walks, but I think they are great suggestions, and one of them is truly a hidden gem. If you want more harder hikes, you could check Best and Unique Hikes in Madeira article.
1. PR 11 РVereda dos Balc̵es
In my opinion, this is the easiest Levada trail on the island. The starting point is . It’s mostly flat, with a large road. The trail offers beautiful views along the way, and there is also a place where you can buy something to drink and relax in the middle of the nature. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular viewpoint and plenty of beautiful birds.
PR11 – Hike Tips & Info
- Check the official site for the status of the trail: here;
- Check this official site for more details: here;
- Taxes for the trail: here;
- Check the weather before on Meteoblue and look to the webcams;
- Starting point/Parking: here;
- When to visit: Its ok to visit whenever you want;
- Wear proper hiking shoes and clothes(wind jacket, rain jacket, a fleece, hat, sunscreen, water). Make sure to bring extra shoes, socks and T-shirts to change into after the trek;
- Distance: 1.5km(3km round trip);
- Difficulty: Easy;
- Duration: around 2h.
2. PR 6.1 – Levada do Risco
Levada do Risco leads to a waterfall situated in the middle of the mountains. The starting point is on E, and after a short walk you’ll find a restaurant. You’ll hike through lush green forests, and although there are a few ups and downs, the trail is very easy. Enjoy the scenery and the walk through this luxuriant vegetation. At the end, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful will have ups and downs, but don’t worry the trail is really easy. Enjoy the views and walks through this luxuriant vegetation. At the end, you’ll be surprised by the big and beautiful waterfall.
PR6.1 Hike Tips & Info
- Trail name: PR 6.1 – Levada do Risco
- Check the official site for the status of the trail: here;
- Check this official site for more details: here;
- Taxes for the trail: here;
- Check the weather before on Meteoblue and look to the webcams;
- Starting point/Parking: here;
- When to visit: early in the morning, but if you prefer, going later can also be good. It would be crowded;
- Wear proper hiking shoes and clothes(wind jacket, rain jacket, a fleece, hat, sunscreen, water). Make sure to bring extra shoes, socks and T-shirts to change into after the trek;
- Distance: 1.5km(3km round trip);
- Difficulty: Easy;
- Duration: around 2h;
3. PR 6.2 – Levada do Alecrim
Levada do Risco and Levada do Alecrim share the same starting point. I only did one of them, I chose Levada do Risco. Even though opinions are divided, one difference I’ve heard about is that Levada do Alecrim tends to be less crowded. However, I still expect there to be plenty of people during the high season. Both are easy trails, and I would recommend choosing just one of them.
PR6.2 Hike Tips & Info
- Check the official site for the status of the trail: here;
- Check this official site for more details: here;
- Taxes for the trail: here;
- Check the weather before on Meteoblue and look to the webcams;
- Starting point/Parking: here;
- When to visit: early in the morning, but if you prefer, going later can also be good. It would be crowded;
- Wear proper hiking shoes and clothes(wind jacket, rain jacket, a fleece, hat, sunscreen, water). Make sure to bring extra shoes, socks and T-shirts to change into after the trek;
- Distance: 3.5km(7km round trip);
- Difficulty: Easy;
- Duration: around 3h;
4. PR 9.1 РLevada do Caldeiṛo Verde
I didn’t have the opportunity to do this trail myself, but based on my research, it is considered an easy one. It starts at Queimadas Park and the trail is a transition between Madeira’s natural forest-Laurissilva Forest, UNESCO Heritage-and the exotic forests.
PR9.1 Hike Tips & Info
- Trail name: PR9.1 Levada do Caldeirão Verde;
- Check the official site for the status of the trail: here;
- Check this official site for more details: here;
- Taxes for the trail: here;
- Check the weather before on Meteoblue and look to the webcams;
- Starting point/Parking: here;
- When to visit: early in the morning, but if you prefer, going later can also be good. It would be crowded;
- Wear proper hiking shoes and clothes(wind jacket, rain jacket, a fleece, hat, sunscreen, water). Make sure to bring extra shoes, socks and T-shirts to change into after the trek;
- Distance: 2 km;
- Difficulty: Moderate;
- Duration: around 1-1:30h.
5. Banana Route
Unfortunately, I didn’t do this route because I preferred the longer hikes. However, if you’re looking only for easy walks, this one should definitely be on your list. It’s a pleasant walking route in Madalena do Mar surrounded by banana plantations. The trail is flat and easy, and you’ll enjoy the beautiful views along they way. It’s a 1km trail and takes around 1h. The trail has multiple entrances, choose the one more suitable for you.
6. Part of PR1 – Pico do Arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is the most iconic peak on the island, even though it isn’t the highest. If you’re looking for an easy hike while still experiencing part of Madeira’s most famous trail, you can only hike as far as the Stairway to Heaven section. You’ll witness an incredible display of colors, and if you’re lucky enough to catch some clouds, the experience becomes even more magical. I consider this spot a hidden gem at sunset, so don’t miss it. If you want more hidden gems, check this article: Best 5 Sunset Spots in Madeira.
PR1 Stairway to Heaven
- Check the official site for the status of the trail: here;
- Check this official site for more details: here;
- Taxes for the trail: here;
- Check the weather before on Meteoblue and look to the webcams;
- When to visit: at sunset;
- Wear proper hiking shoes and clothes(wind jacket, rain jacket, a polar, hut, sun cream, water);
- The trail is starting: here;
- Go just for a little walk, only until Stairway to Heaven or the first observation deck.
Final Thoughts on Best Levada Walks in Madeira
That is one of my favorite things about Madeira. The island offers something for everyone, including hiking trails for all fitness levels, which is fantastic.
However, please don’t underestimate any trail, no matter how easy it may seem. Always check the trail conditions and weather forecast before setting off on a hike.
Thank you very much for reading, and I hope you found this guide helpful. I hope this article has given you some useful ideas for your trip to Madeira.
