Levada do Rei: Your Complete Guide to One of the Best Levada Hikes in Madeira
If you’re searching for one of the most scenic and serene levada hikes in Madeira, look no further than Levada do Rei. 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 Levada do Rei trail guide will give you all the information you need for an unforgettable adventure.
Starting Point: Quebradas, São Jorge
The Levada do Rei trail starts in the hamlet of Quebradas, at an elevation of 535 meters. From São Jorge, follow the ER 101 westward for about 3 kilometers. You’ll see a sign for Levada/Moinho Agua, leading you through the small village of Achada da Felpa. Parking is available at the snack bar Levada do Rei, a convenient place for refreshments before you start.
If you’re coming from Funchal, 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.
Trail Overview: What to Expect
This levada walk in Madeira is considered easy, making it suitable for all skill levels. The trail is mostly flat, well-shaded, and offers spectacular views of the Ribeiro Bonito Valley.
Key Highlights:
- Laurisilva Forest: 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.
- Tunnel Passage: A short, fun 5-meter-long tunnel (1.6 meters high) requires a slight duck, adding an adventurous element to the hike.
- Waterfalls: Depending on the season, a gentle waterfall cascades directly onto the levada. Be cautious, as the slabs near the waterfall can become slippery.
Safety Considerations
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.
The Final Stop: Ribeiro Bonito
The trail culminates at Ribeiro Bonito, 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 Quebradas.
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.
Practical Information:
- Distance: Approx. 10 kilometers (round trip)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy, with moderate vertigo risks in some sections
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, water, rain gear, and a camera to capture the beauty of the trail
How to Get There:
- Driving Directions: From Funchal, take the motorway towards Machico and Santana. Follow the signs towards São Jorge, and from there, it’s a short drive to the Levada do Rei trailhead.
- By Bus: Take bus no. 103 from Funchal to the snack bar Levada do Rei, followed by a 15-minute walk to the start of the trail.
