Levada do Alecrim – Rosemary Levada (Full Day Walk)

Discover the Beauty of Madeira’s Rosemary Levada

For those seeking a full-day hiking experience in Madeira, the Levada do Alecrim offers a scenic immersion into the island’s lush landscapes. Priced at $52.14 per person, this 8-hour guided walk takes visitors along the Rosemary Levada, passing through beautiful lagoons and small waterfalls. The tour departs from Funchal at 9:00 am, with air-conditioned transport included, making it easy to reach the start point without hassle.

While the tour covers some rugged terrain and includes a potentially strenuous descent to the Vento Waterfall, it remains accessible to most travelers who are prepared with good walking shoes and a warm coat. Its small-group setting—capped at 14 travelers—ensures a more intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Guided walk along the scenic Rosemary Levada with expert navigation
• Includes air-conditioned transportation from Funchal
• Duration of approximately 8 hours, perfect for full-day explorers
• Many photo opportunities at waterfalls, lagoons, and lush landscapes
• Small-group experience ensures more personalized guidance
• Not included: food and drinks, so bring a picnic and water

Starting Point and Transportation Convenience

The tour begins at Pelitrade Investimentos Sgps, Unipessoal, on Avenida Arriaga in Funchal. Travelers are picked up from this central location, with the provided air-conditioned vehicle transporting the group directly to the trailhead. This setup removes the need for self-driving or additional planning, allowing everyone to focus on the adventure ahead.

The departure at 9:00 am ensures a full day to explore Madeira’s famous levadas. Since the activity ends back at the starting point, participants can easily plan their day around this convenient schedule.

Guided Walks Along the Rosemary Levada

Walking along the Levada do Alecrim, visitors enjoy a route that passes through the Lagoa da Dª Beja (Dª Beja Lagoon). This waterway offers stunning views, with the chance to capture numerous photographs of waterfalls and the verdant landscape. The guide leads the way, sharing insights about the local flora and landscape, enriching the experience with context that maps alone cannot provide.

The route highlights scenic spots such as the 25 Fountains and the Da Beja Lagoon. These stops offer excellent vantage points and photo opportunities, making the walk as visually rewarding as it is physically engaging.

Physical Demands and Practical Tips

This tour is suitable for most travelers who have good walking shoes or boots and are prepared for a potentially challenging descent to the Vento Waterfall. The path can be demanding, especially during the downhill sections, which require careful footing. Travelers should pack a warm coat to stay comfortable if mountain temperatures are low, and bring along water and a picnic to stay energized.

While the walk is beautiful, it is also described as quite strenuous in parts, so those with mobility issues or who prefer lighter walks might want to consider this in advance.

Highlights of the Photo Opportunities and Natural Beauty

Throughout the day, the group encounters small waterfalls, lush levada corridors, and lagoons that present many perfect photo moments. The scenery is described as stunning, with the lush greenery contrasting against the water features. The guide’s commentary adds depth to each view, helping visitors appreciate the unique landscape of Madeira.

These photo stops are well spaced, allowing plenty of time to capture shots and soak in the views, making this tour particularly appealing for photography enthusiasts.

Practical Details: Meeting, Duration, and Group Size

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at Pelitrade Investimentos, with most bookings made about 9 days in advance. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, which helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere and allows for more personalized guidance. The activity concludes back at the starting point, so no additional transportation is necessary after the walk.

Travelers should be prepared for weather variations; the tour is dependent on good weather conditions, and poor weather may lead to cancellations with the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Review Insights: Strengths and Areas for Improvement

The tour receives a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 3 reviews, indicating overall satisfaction. Reviewers consistently praise the stunning scenery and the enjoyable walk, which captures the essence of Madeira’s lush environment.

One reviewer notes that the scenery is very beautiful, but suggests that the vehicle used for transport could be more modern. Another points out that the walk can be quite demanding, especially the descent to the Vento Waterfall, and mentions that the guide was not very engaged—spending a lot of time on the phone—but highlights that the group itself was friendly.

Despite some minor criticisms, the tour’s scenic highlights and guided approach make it a compelling choice for those eager to explore Madeira’s natural levada system.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Full-Day Hike in Madeira

The Levada do Alecrim guided walk offers an affordable, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Madeira’s lush, water-rich landscapes. With stunning waterfalls, lagoons, and verdant levadas, it suits travelers who enjoy physical activity combined with beautiful views. The inclusion of air-conditioned transport and a small-group setting enhances comfort and intimacy.

While the walk can be physically demanding, the experience is well worth it for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. The guides’ explanations add educational value, making the day both enjoyable and informative. This tour is best suited for active visitors who appreciate scenic beauty and are prepared for a full day of walking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour’s physical demands suggest that it’s best suited for adults or older children who can handle strenuous walking and descents.

What should I bring for the hike?
It’s recommended to pack good walking shoes or boots, a warm coat, water, and a picnic to enjoy during the day.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring their own provisions.

How long is the guided walk?
The entire activity lasts approximately 8 hours.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with full refunds offered.

What happens if bad weather cancels the tour?
If poor weather causes cancellation, participants are offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is capped at 14 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Pelitrade Investimentos in Funchal.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned transportation is included from the meeting point to the trailhead and back.

What are the main attractions on this tour?
Major highlights include the scenic Rosemary Levada, Lagoa da Dª Beja, 25 Fountains, and the Vento Waterfall—all offering fantastic views and photo opportunities.