São Lourenço Peninsula: Spectacular Rocky Coast in the Furthest Eastern Corner of the Island

On the incoming flight path to Madeira, as you fly over this peninsula, your first impressions will likely contrast with the cliché of the island being an evergreen floating garden. After rainy winters, the finger-like peninsula, which juts into the sea, is covered in a green, grassy fluff. However, in summer, the terrain becomes arid except for the undemanding carpet weeds (Aizoaceae). Nevertheless, the wild and idyllic rocky coastline makes this a highly popular destination—during peak season, 1,000 to 1,500 walkers traverse this path daily! For a quieter experience along the route, it’s best to finish your breakfast quickly and arrive by 9 a.m. at the large car park at the start of the walk.

: Baía d'Abra, 77m. From Machico, take the VR 1 until the motorway ends at the free-trade port (Zona Franca) at Caniçal; from here, follow the signs toward Ponta São Lourenço for 5km, where the road ends at the car park above Baía d'Abra. You can also reach Baía d'Abra via bus no. 113.

: Easy walk, sometimes along stony paths; exposed sections are protected. The short but steep ascent to Morro do Furado is somewhat strenuous. Expect occasionally fierce winds on the São Lourenço peninsula, and remember: there’s no shade! Don’t forget your swimwear!

: There’s a cafeteria in the Casa do Sardinha, a mobile kiosk at the car park (seasonal), and a beach bar in Prainha along the approach route.

: If the sea is calm, you can book a daily boat tour from Cais do Sardinha to the lighthouse isle Desembarcadouro with Madeira Sea Emotions (tel. +351 910 308 804, 

). This offers a chance to experience the peninsula from the sea. Afterward, if you use the shuttle service, you can return by boat from Cais do Sardinha to Marina Quinta do Lord (bus stop for the SAM bus no. 113).

: Halfway between Caniçal and Baía d'Abra, you’ll find Prainha (bus stop). This natural beach of fine sand offers one of the best swimming experiences on Madeira.

From the car park above Baía d'Abra, there’s an information board detailing the São Lourenço peninsula. A walking path (PR 8) begins toward Cais do Sardinha, descending into a small valley and continuing along a well-marked log-paved path. Look across the peninsula to see a circular rock arch over the water and the notable peak of Morro do Furado ('the perforated'), at the foot of which stands the Casa do Sardinha surrounded by a small palm grove. After about 15 minutes, you will cross another path. You can descend the stepped path to the stony beach in the bay or go left to reach a spectacular viewpoint, showcasing the bizarrely shaped coastline.

Back on the main path, you’ll begin a short steep ascent. Soon, you'll climb a stepped cobbled path, secured by a heavy metal cable, along a rocky ridge to another viewpoint. Here, enjoy impressive views of a steep rock face with dyke intrusions. The path arches around Abra bay on the south side of the peninsula. At the same height as the round fish farm floating in the sea, the path crosses a land bridge just a few meters wide, with sheer cliffs dropping almost 100m on either side. The narrowest point of the peninsula is protected by a fence. You’ll get close to Casa do Sardinha, which is surrounded by date palms and stands out like an oasis in the rust to curry-yellow landscape.

A good way before the house, the environmental authorities have built a circular route that you should follow to the left. Before the path swings around to the house, enjoy a beautiful view of the northern side of the peninsula. The path then runs above and past Casa do Sardinha. Leave the circular path and start the steep ascent to Morro do Furado (160m). In the upper section, the ascent path is secured with a cable fence. Once at the summit, take in a spectacular panorama of the lighthouse on the Ilheu do Farol, the easternmost point on Madeira. The neighboring Desertas islands seem just a stone's throw away, and if the weather is clear, you can even see Porto Santo. This is a fabulous spot to take a rest, provided it’s not too windy.

Descend back to the circular route and Casa do Sardinha, where a cafeteria and picnic area may tempt you to take a break (a WC is available here). From there, a cobbled trail descends to Cais do Sardinha, a tiny pebble beach. If the sea is calm, you can dip your feet in the water or take a swim. At the picnic benches above the little bay, bear left to cross the wooden walkway and then climb back up to the starting point of the circular route.

From there, retrace your steps back to Baía d'Abra.

Spectacular rocky coast in the furthest eastern corner of the island

On your way to Madeira, as you fly over this peninsula, your first impressions will certainly not live up to the cliché of the island as an evergreen floating garden. It's true that after rainy winters, the finger-shaped peninsula pointing out into the sea is covered with green grassy fluff, but still in summer the area is utterly arid, with the exception of unpretentious carpet weeds (Aizoaceae).
However, the wild and idyllic rocky coastline makes this tour of the island very popular and frequented - between 1000 and 1500 walkers pass here every day during the high season! If you prefer to enjoy peace and quiet, at least on the initial route, you should quickly finish your breakfast at the hotel and arrive at the large car park at the starting point of the walk no later than 9 am.


The Ultimate Guide to São Lourenço Peninsula: Discover Madeira's Stunning Coastal Trails

Thorough the UNESCO World Heritage reserve into the green basin.

Walking into this "green cauldron" is one of the most spectacular levada routes on the island and therefore the most crowded. The water has created here not only impressive gorges, but also jungle-like evergreen vegetation. The levada is mostly carved into the rock, and it seems incredible that trees and bushes manage to cling to the vertical slopes. At the end of this beautiful walk, an extraordinary waterfall plunges into a small pool, where the most hardy can cool off.

 Easy to moderate
At the beginning, the levada path is wide and pleasant to walk, it gets narrower later on and sometimes you have to walk along the 30 cm, small and narrow wall. In late autumn and winter the trail can be wet and slippery due to running streams. There is a small to moderate risk of dizziness, although very exposed areas are protected by wire fencing. A torch light is required for tunnels.

 no facilities along the way, only small cafeteria in Queimadas

Levada do Caldeirão Verde: Everything You Need to Know

Experience the ultimate adventure on Madeira with a hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. This iconic mountain path, built over 50 years ago, connects the three highest peaks of the island, offering jaw-dropping views and a thrilling trek. If you’re a fan of mountain hiking, this route is a must-do for anyone visiting Madeira.


Begin your journey at Pico do Arieiro, 1818 meters above sea level. You can reach it by car or taxi via Poiso to the parking area. It’s recommended to start early, as clouds often cover the summits by midday, obscuring the fantastic views.


This hike is demanding, with steep ascents and exposed sections along cobbled and stony mule tracks. Some areas are secured with wire cables for safety, but it’s essential to be fit and prepared. Bring a flashlight for the tunnels and ensure the weather is dry and stable before attempting the hike.


You’ll find a cafeteria at Pico do Arieiro to grab a bite before your hike. Midway through the route, the Casa de Abrigo, near the base of Pico Ruivo, offers snacks, drinks, and even potable water.


The hike begins with a short ascent to the summit column at Pico do Arieiro. From here, descend slightly to follow the PR1 path, which will take you past Miradouro Ninho da Manta, a viewpoint offering stunning views of the Ribeira da Fajã da Nogueira valley.

Continue along the ridge, secured by wire cables, to the Pedra Rija viewpoint. After passing through several tunnels, the trail ascends to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak at 1862 meters. Once you reach the summit, the panoramic views in every direction are nothing short of breathtaking, with highlights including the wind turbines of Paul da Serra.


If you’ve arranged transport, you can descend from Pico Ruivo via Walk 37 to Achada do Teixeira. For long-distance hikers, continue onward to Encumeada pass (Walk 39).


Before you set out, check the weather conditions via live webcams, such as those available at 

. If the mountains are shrouded in mist, consider postponing your hike for clearer conditions.

Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: Hiking the Highest Peaks of Madeira

If you’re searching for one of the most scenic and serene levada hikes in Madeira, look no further than 

. This stunning trail, also known as the “King’s Levada,” takes hikers through the UNESCO-listed laurisilva forest, offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this 

 will give you all the information you need for an unforgettable adventure.

, at an elevation of 535 meters. From São Jorge, follow the ER 101 westward for about 3 kilometers. You’ll see a sign for 

, leading you through the small village of 

, a convenient place for refreshments before you start.

, the drive takes about an hour, while the bus (no. 103) takes around 2 hours, followed by a short 15-minute walk to the starting point.

 is considered easy, making it suitable for all skill levels. The trail is mostly flat, well-shaded, and offers spectacular views of the 

: You’ll walk through one of Madeira’s most iconic landscapes, the laurisilva forest, which is filled with native plant species and considered a World Heritage Site.

: A short, fun 5-meter-long tunnel (1.6 meters high) requires a slight duck, adding an adventurous element to the hike.

: Depending on the season, a gentle waterfall cascades directly onto the levada. Be cautious, as the slabs near the waterfall can become slippery.

While the trail is easy, there are a few sections where the path runs close to steep rock faces, so hikers prone to vertigo should take care. After heavy rainfall, the path near the waterfall can become slippery, so it’s advisable to wear rain gear and shoes with good traction.

, a breathtaking spot where the levada is fed by the rushing waters of the Ribeiro Bonito stream. This point marks the turnaround of the hike, where you can take a well-deserved rest before retracing your steps back to 

An Alternative Route: Circular Walk Option

For those who want to add a bit more to the adventure, you can turn this levada hike into a short circular walk. About 15 minutes past the tunnel, leave the levada and follow a forestry trail that leads to a forest station. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Ribeiro Bonito Valley before heading back to the starting point.

: Easy, with moderate vertigo risks in some sections

: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat

: Sturdy hiking shoes, water, rain gear, and a camera to capture the beauty of the trail

: From Funchal, take the motorway towards 

, and from there, it’s a short drive to the 

: Take bus no. 103 from Funchal to the snack bar 

, followed by a 15-minute walk to the start of the trail.

Levada do Rei: Your Complete Guide to One of the Best Levada Hikes in Madeira

You will not only see the walkers on the “Levada do Norte” - for many residents, the irrigation channel is the only access to their houses and for many children a playground. The best Madeira wines are produced on the slopes of “Estrito de Camara de Lobos”, a climatically prime location. The vineyards are lined up on both sides of the levada like a patchwork rug and are especially beautiful in late autumn when the vine leaves turn copper-red. The impressive coastal cliffs on the “Cabo Girao” are the destination for this walk.

Easy. A beautiful leisurely levada walk but you need to be dizzy-free for some of the precipitous spots.



 Levada do Norte, 540m.
From Funchal with no. 96 bus to Estrei to de Câmara de Lobos as far as the Le vada do Norte bus stop, about 600m after the church. You can also take a taxi or come by car.


 from Cruz da Caldeira to Funchal no. 4, 7, or 154 bus. No. 7 also runs express from Cabo Girão to Funchal (Mon-Sat 13.00 and 18.00) or to Ribeira Brava (16.20). Or take a taxi from the rank at Cabo Girão to return to Estreito de Camara de Lobos (about 15 €).

 snack bars above Gara chico, on the Cabo Girão, and in Cruz da Caldeira.

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Levada do Norte in Madeira

Madeira is famed for its dramatic landscapes and scenic coastal walks, and one of the most accessible yet rewarding routes is the stroll from Lido Funchal to the charming fishing village of 

. This leisurely walk is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering breathtaking ocean views, cultural landmarks, and a glimpse into the island’s maritime history. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy this unforgettable coastal journey.

Starting Point: Lido Funchal – A Seaside Retreat

, in the heart of Funchal's lively hotel district. Easily accessible by bus or car (with free parking on Sundays), this spot is a hub of activity. From here, the coastal promenade stretches westward, offering a well-paved path that hugs the ocean for most of the journey.

 (Marine Biology Station) and continue along a cobblestone path lined with palm trees and sea views. This initial part of the route is popular for a reason—it’s flat, scenic, and perfect for walkers of all abilities.

Seaside Landmarks: Magic Tea House & Clube Naval do Funchal

Around 10 minutes in, you’ll reach the 

, a local favorite for beachgoers and swimmers. If you're looking to cool off, bring your bathing gear and take a dip in the Atlantic.

 comes into view. This quirky spot offers stunning vistas of sea stacks rising dramatically from the ocean—natural sculptures that seem almost placed by hand. It's a great place to stop and soak in the surroundings before continuing your walk.

A Glimpse of History: João Gonçalves Zarco Memorial

One of the most significant stops along the promenade is the statue of 

, the discoverer of Madeira. The monument stands proudly against the backdrop of the towering 

, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Take a moment to join Zarco in admiring the rugged beauty of the coastline.

, Madeira's largest public beach. Unfortunately, due to ongoing rockfall issues, the pedestrian tunnel to the beach has been closed since 2019, requiring a short detour. Follow the signs to the 

 before reconnecting with the coastal path further ahead.

This brief detour leads to more incredible ocean views as you continue along the cliffside promenade, supported by concrete pillars that seem to float above the crashing waves below.

Industrial Heritage and Approaching Câmara de Lobos

As you approach Câmara de Lobos, the landscape changes, offering a glimpse into Madeira's industrial past. You’ll pass a working cement factory with its private pier jutting into the sea. While not the most scenic part of the walk, it adds an interesting contrast to the natural beauty of the cliffs and ocean.

After passing an old, conical lime kiln, you’ll know you're entering the village of 

. The harbor comes into view, with its colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water and the scent of freshly caught seafood in the air.

End Point: Câmara de Lobos – A Fishing Village Frozen in Time

, a village that feels frozen in time. Known for its deep-rooted fishing traditions and the iconic image of Winston Churchill painting here in the 1950s, Câmara de Lobos is a charming place to explore.

, a renowned fish restaurant offering unbeatable views over the harbor. It’s the perfect spot to end your journey with fresh seafood and a taste of local life.

: Comfortable shoes, water, and swimwear if you plan to take a dip.

: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Conclusion: A Scenic Stroll with History and Charm

The coastal walk from Lido Funchal to Câmara de Lobos is more than just a trail—it's a journey through Madeira’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical roots. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this route offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of Madeira’s most beloved walks for yourself.

Madeira's Coastal Gem: Walking from Lido Funchal to Câmara de Lobos

This walk has everything to make it an interesting levada walk: clefts in the rocks, tunnels and in particular the luxuriant vegetation of a subtropical mountain forest. On the banks of "Cold River' wagtails bob up and down. The chaffinches peck at the crumbs left at the picnic spots. This classic levada walk is quite popular. There are many organised walking groups also met along the way.



 Demanding levada walk on a broad path at the outset but then narrow at times. There is a low to medium risk of vertigo; most exposed sections are protected with fences. A tourch is not needed for the short tunnels. In winter it can be wet and slippery.

Ribeiro Frio. From Funchal by car or bus Nº 103. 


Nº 53 (bus stop is oposite the restaurant Portela a Vista). If you have to return to your car, order a taxi for 35 euros in Portela. If you are a walker approaching by car and prefer to save on taxi, turn back at the water house and return along the approach route to Ribeiro Frio. The total walking time is then increased to 5 hrs.

PR 10 Levada do Furado (From Ribeiro Frio to Portela)

Along a levada high above the southern coast

Along the narrow levada, enjoy a walk at a height of 1300m with panoramic views of the southern coast - a walk par excellence, so long as the weather cooperates in this often foggy area. In 2016, a brush fire ravaged the region; nevertheless, the natural vegetation has begun to slowly recover.


An easy levada walk along a very narrow path and a levada wall that is just as narrow.



: Posto Florestal Cova Grande (forest station), 1320m.

: Cascading down into a rock pool from a height of about 20m. This marks the point of our return route.  After taking a break, head back again along the route used during the approach to return to the Posto Florestal.

Levada do Paul (Levada da Bica da Cana)

hrough a primeval forest to a view over the northern coast

Ever since the mountain road to Ribeira da Janela was surfaced in tarmac, Madeira has opened up another attractive walking region centered around the Fanal Forest (Fanal Madeira) station. This area is renowned for its ancient fetid laurel trees, part of the unique ecosystems that make up the famous Madeira levadas. On most days of the year, dense fog envelops the forest, creating a primordial atmosphere. From the forest station, a signposted path begins that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the northern coast. If the highlands are not shrouded in fog, this is a spectacular vantage point.

 At the Fanal Forest station (Posto Florestal), 1130m. From Ponta do Sol, follow the signs towards Paul da Serra. From the crossroads on the high plateau, take the ER 209 for another 8 km to reach Fanal. Parking is available at the forest station.

 This route is a short circular trail via mostly good paths. Except for a brief stretch after the trailhead, the route-finding is straightforward. However, if the fog rolls in, it’s best to postpone your hike. There is no risk of vertigo.

As you start at the Fanal Forest station, take a moment to marvel at the gnarled fetid laurel trees that surround you. About 75m past the forest station, a sign (PR 13 Paul da Serra) directs you onto a trail lined with round wooden steps ascending through a slope rich in ferns. When the steps end, bear slightly right at a fork. After 100m, you’ll reach the sheer rim of the plateau, marked by wooden stakes with yellow and red waymarking. Here, you can enjoy splendid views of the northern coast.

The path leads along the rim of the high plateau towards the eagle fern-blanketed Pereira (1241m) and passes a good way to the left below the summit dome. More magnificent laurel trees line the trail, their trunks covered in moss and lichen, with some providing niches for ferns.

Twenty minutes in, the trail curves right at a hut of corrugated iron. About 150m past this hut, you'll arrive at a trail junction without a signpost. Bear left and follow the path, passing a cairn about 1.5m high. Continue 200m, and you’ll meet a broad, rocky trail. To the right, a sign points the way to Paul da Serra, but we’ll turn left instead. Shortly afterward, pass by some huts roofed with corrugated iron sheeting, alongside a trail that forks left toward Seixal.

After 150m past the huts, you’ll finally arrive at Fio (1120m), where an impressive view opens up into the Ribeira do Seixal valley lying over 1000m below—provided the valley isn't hidden by dense trade wind cloud cover. At the viewpoint, protected by a railing, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient goods lift.

From Fio, return to the fork marked for Paul da Serra and head straight along the stony trail to reach a broad meadow. Before reaching it, turn left onto a path that soon ascends for a short, stepped stretch, traversing the slope before joining a broad forest trail. Here, turn left, slightly ascending the slope until, five minutes later, you reach another miradouro (viewpoint) at 1170m, offering another lovely view into the Seixal valley. This viewpoint serves as our turn-around point.

If you wish, you could take the PR 13 trail for another 1.5 hours to reach Paul da Serra, during which you would cross the ER 209 several times. However, we will head back and, in five minutes, return to the forest trail. Instead of taking the stepped trail we used on the way in, continue straight along the forest trail, descending to the broad meadow below.

After crossing a junction, the trail leads towards a striking laurel tree. The Pedreira is now to your right. Five minutes past the laurel tree, the trail becomes tarmac-paved. At this point, where the tarmac begins, turn diagonally right onto a grassy trail to return to the Fanal Forest station.

 Close to the forest station, you’ll find a barbecue shelter with two picnic tables. A few meters below this area, a grassy trail begins, indistinct at first but soon broadens to reach the Lagoa in about 15 minutes. The crater lake only earns its name after a period of serious rainfall.

Through a primeval forest to a view over the northern coast

Ever since the mountain road to Ribeira da Janela was paved with tarmac, Madeira can offer up yet another attractive walking region to explore, centered around the Fanal forest station. The area is known for its ancient laurel-found trees. On most days of the year, dense fog creates a pristine atmosphere.
The signposted trail starts at the forest station and leads to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the north coast - if the highlands are not shrouded in fog, this is certainly a spectacular sight.

Exploring the Fanal to Fio Trail: A Journey Through Madeira's Enchanting Forest

A beautiful circular walk that leads through the northern hilly landscape of Camacha.
At the outset, you follow the Levada dos Tornos, and then continue along a secondary road to ascent to the Levada da Serra do Faial. Along the way, you will come across three tunnels where you may need a flashlight.

Actually, a very easy circular walk, also a few very precipitous sections have grated this a 'black' walk. Along the Levada dos Tornos, there is a moderate to exreme danger of vertigo. Depending on weather conditions,  the Levada trail can be wet and slippery.

Camaca, 700 m. Very good connection from Funchal with bus  № 129. Approaching by car, you can park at the Largo da Achada.


Along the main road in Camacha, pass by the parish church and, at the fork 20 m on, bear left. Just after that, in the center of the town of Camacha return to the bus stop at the Largo da Achada.


The Ultimate Guide to São Lourenço Peninsula: Discover Madeira's Stunning Coastal Trails

Levada do Caldeirão Verde: Everything You Need to Know

Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: Hiking the Highest Peaks of Madeira

Levada do Rei: Your Complete Guide to One of the Best Levada Hikes in Madeira

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Levada do Norte in Madeira

Madeira's Coastal Gem: Walking from Lido Funchal to Câmara de Lobos

PR 10 Levada do Furado (From Ribeiro Frio to Portela)

Levada do Paul (Levada da Bica da Cana)

Exploring the Fanal to Fio Trail: A Journey Through Madeira's Enchanting Forest

Circular walk near Camacha

Hiking and levada-walk guides for Madeira Island

Recent posts

The Ultimate Guide to São Lourenço Peninsula: Discover Madeira's Stunning Coastal Trails

Levada do Caldeirão Verde: Everything You Need to Know

Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: Hiking the Highest Peaks of Madeira

Levada do Rei: Your Complete Guide to One of the Best Levada Hikes in Madeira

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Levada do Norte in Madeira

Madeira's Coastal Gem: Walking from Lido Funchal to Câmara de Lobos

PR 10 Levada do Furado (From Ribeiro Frio to Portela)

Levada do Paul (Levada da Bica da Cana)

Exploring the Fanal to Fio Trail: A Journey Through Madeira's Enchanting Forest

Circular walk near Camacha