Levada Walking
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"Levada" in Portuguese is a word derived from the word "levar" - which means to carry, in this
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case water in the form of a mini-canal. The mini-canals are irrigation systems developed from
the early 16th century, to distribute water from the wet regions on the north of the island to the
drier sun parched regions of the south. Madeira is very mountainous, and most levadas provide
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easy and relaxing walks through beautiful countryside filled with laurel forests, and others more
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challenging walks over peaks and mountains, through tunnels and under waterfalls. The
breathtaking scenery of the levada and mountain walks in Madeira have become world famous
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due to the following reasons:
· Most walks found here are deep in the lush vegetation of Europe’s oldest and biggest
Laurel Forest. The walks are accessible right throughout the year due to the good
temperatures the island experiences because of its geographical position. The most
dramatic landscapes that are found here due to the volcanic origins of the island.
Our experienced and certified guides will help you safely explore the island's natural heritage
through a series of walks that will have you coming back for more.
Queimadas - Caldeirão
Verde
Distance: 13 km
Duration: 4.5 hours
Grade: 3 Moderate
Beware: Tunnels & Vertigo
Laurisilva Landscapes - Ribeiro Frio
The enchanting emerald green
and mossy paradise of the tropical
Distance: 11 km
rain forest (Laurisilva Forest), has to be the
Duration: 4 hours
most scenic walk in Madeira! First we
Grade: 3 Moderate
take the path beside the old Levada
Beware: Vertigo
do Caldeirão Verde which then will take
To really appreciate Madeira’s natural heritage, you have
us to one of the most remote areas of the
to do this walk. Set deep in the Laurisilva forest on the
island with spectacular views of the north
eastern side of the island you will marvel at display of light
coast. Making our way through some
and shade filtering through the laurel and heather trees.
short tunnels, we arrive at Caldeirão
The trout swimming in the levada alongside the path dash
Verde's majestic waterfall which forms the
for cover as they perceive our approach. You will love the
caldron. Green, green, and more green
tranquility and peace of your surroundings as your eyes
would be the most fitting description for
feast upon sensational views at the vast array of flora and
this truly beautiful Madeira levada walk!
bird life. Another levada walk not to be missed!
‘With Pestana, your well-being is our priority’
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