Funchal: Northern Levada Walking Tour

Discover the Charm of Madeira’s Northern Levada Path

The Funchal: Northern Levada Walking Tour offers a wonderful chance to explore Madeira’s lush landscape and scenic vistas. Priced at just $37 per person and lasting approximately 135 minutes, this guided walk introduces visitors to one of the island’s most significant levada routes. The tour departs from Cabo Girão, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the Funchal area, making it a convenient choice for travelers staying in the city.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the local plantations, stunning ocean views, and mountain scenery. The pace is relaxed, making it accessible for most fitness levels, especially those who appreciate a gentle walk amid beautiful surroundings. Travelers should be aware that the tour may be cancelled in bad weather, but flexible booking options and a full refund policy help ensure peace of mind.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $37 per person, offering good value for a scenic guided walk.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours of walking, with flexible start times.
• Location: Starts at Cabo Girão, passing through Quinta Grande and Campanário.
• Highlights: Local plantations, ocean and mountain views, and a walk through the Quinta Grande valley.
• Guides: Fully qualified mountain guides lead the tour in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, French, and Spanish.
• Weather considerations: Tours may be canceled in case of bad weather, with options for refunds or replacements.

Starting Point at Cabo Girão and the Scenic Route

The tour begins at Cabo Girão, famous for its towering skywalk and panoramic views. From there, the guide leads participants along the longest and most important levada on the island, offering a gentle walk through green fields, plantations, and local villages. The climate here tends to be milder, providing a comfortable environment for walking.

The route takes in the valley of Quinta Grande and the town of Campanário, where visitors get a close-up look at carefully tended plantations and vineyards. As the trail winds through these areas, travelers enjoy views over the ocean and surrounding mountains, making it a visually rewarding experience.

Observing Madeira’s Agriculture and Local Life

A key feature of this walk is the chance to see how local farmers tend to their plantations. The carefully worked fields and vineyards are an important part of Madeira’s landscape and economy. The guide offers insights into local farming practices, enriching the experience beyond just the scenery. Houses and village buildings along the trail provide a glimpse into traditional Madeira life.

This tour stands out for its focus on authentic local scenery, giving visitors a taste of the island’s agricultural heritage. The picturesque setting is complemented by the mild climate, which makes the walk comfortable even during warmer months.

Views of the Ocean and Mountains From the Levada

One of the most appreciated aspects of this walk is the breathtaking views. The trail rewards walkers with spectacular vistas over the Atlantic Ocean and the mountain peaks. These sights are particularly vivid in good weather, and they offer ample photo opportunities.

The mountain scenery adds a sense of grandeur to the walk, with some sections providing challenging viewpoints for those with a fear of heights, as noted in reviews. However, the relaxed pace and well-maintained trail help make the experience enjoyable for most.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal, free of charge. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. The guides communicate in multiple languages, ensuring clear explanations throughout the walk.

Food and drinks are not included, so visitors might want to bring a snack or additional water. The walk lasts about 2 hours, and the starting time can be checked upon reservation, based on availability.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

The Levada walk is described as a very pleasant and easy trail, suitable for most people who can walk comfortably. However, some sections may be challenging for those with a fear of heights, and caution should be exercised on narrow or elevated parts of the trail.

The tour is designed to be relaxed, with no strenuous climbing or difficult terrain. Still, comfortable shoes and water are essential for a smooth experience.

Guides and Multilingual Support

The tour is led by fully qualified mountain guides who speak Portuguese, German, French, Spanish, and English. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, providing informative commentary and making the walk more engaging.

The guides’ ability to communicate in multiple languages ensures that international visitors feel well-informed and comfortable throughout the walk.

Flexibility and Booking Options

Booking is straightforward, with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, which helps accommodate unpredictable weather or schedule changes.

In case of bad weather, the tour might be canceled, but the policy allows for refunds or alternative hikes, ensuring that travelers don’t miss out on a Madeira adventure.

Comparing Similar Levada Tours in Madeira

This particular tour emphasizes local plantations, mountain and ocean views, and a mild climate, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed walk with authentic scenery. Other nearby options include tours of Nuns Valley, Rabacal, and Castelejo, which may offer different levels of challenge or scenery.

However, the Funchal Northern Levada Walk offers a balanced experience suitable for most levels, especially those who prefer an easier, scenic stroll with expert guidance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This walk appeals to nature lovers, photographers, and those new to hiking who want a gentle introduction to Madeira’s landscape. It’s also excellent for visitors interested in local agriculture and village life. The scenic views, cultural insights, and comfortable pace make it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

While the length might feel short for avid hikers, the visual payoff and relaxed environment tend to satisfy most participants.

Final Thoughts on the Funchal Northern Levada Walk

The $37 price for this 2-hour guided walk offers notable value, especially considering the expert guidance and stunning scenery. The tour’s focus on local plantations and mountain vistas provides an authentic Madeira experience without the physical demands of more strenuous hikes.

It’s a solid choice for families, elderly travelers, or anyone looking to enjoy Madeira’s landscapes at a gentle pace. Just be prepared for possible weather cancellations and bring comfortable shoes and water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal and is led by a fully qualified mountain guide.

How long does the walk last?
The walking tour lasts approximately 135 minutes or about 2 hours.

Are there any physical requirements?
The walk is described as very pleasant and easy, suitable for most people who can walk comfortably, though caution is advised for those with a fear of heights.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, and in case of bad weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing for the walk.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese, German, French, Spanish, and English.

This guided Levada walk offers a relaxing yet visually rewarding experience, perfect for those wanting to explore Madeira’s landscapes in a comfortable, well-organized way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby