10 Top Hikes in Madeira (Including Map + Tips)
Did you realize that Madeira boasts over 450 distinct hiking trails? That's a staggering 3000km of hiking opportunities spread across the entire island. It's safe to say that tackling all of them during your trip might be a tad ambitious, even for the most seasoned hiker.
The hiking trails in Madeira fall into two main categories:
Levadas:
These are immensely popular in Madeira, characterized by well-maintained paths alongside man-made water channels. Walking along levadas offers a serene experience, surrounded by lush nature and breathtaking panoramas.
Veredas:
Found in the mountainous regions of Madeira, vereda hiking trails offer stunning vistas but can be a bit more challenging. They provide an opportunity for adventurous hikers to explore the rugged beauty of the island's interior.
INTERACTIVE MAP OF MADEIRA ISLAND
EXPLORE ALL THE HIKES!
Discover Madeira like never before with our interactive map, your ultimate guide to the island's most captivating attractions. With over 320 points of interest meticulously entered into the Google Maps app, your Madeira adventure is just a click away!
Getting Around Madeira
Before diving into the trails, let's talk about transportation. While there are various ways to explore Madeira, I highly recommend renting a car from SunnyCars for the ultimate freedom and convenience. Opt for an automatic car, especially considering the steep roads you'll encounter.
The 14 Most Epic Hikes in Madeira
1. Vereda do Areeiro – PR1
Distance: 15.6km (round trip)
Average Time: 7-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Starting Point: Pico do Areeiro
End Point: Pico Ruivo
Tips: Start 30 minutes before sunrise, wear layers, bring sunscreen and water.
2. Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço – PR8
Distance: 7km
Average Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting Point: Ponta de São Lourenço
Tips: Start at sunrise or 3.5 hours before sunset, wear proper hiking shoes and layers.
3. Levada das 25 Fontes – PR6
Distance: 9km
Average Time: 2 hours (one way)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting Point: ER110
Tips: Start around 8am to avoid crowds, bring water and snacks.
4. Levada do Risco – PR6.1
Average Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Combine with Levada das 25 Fontes, visit the Risco waterfall.
5. Vereda dos Balcões – PR11
Distance: 3km
Average Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: ER103
Tips: Visit during off-peak hours for fewer crowds.
6. Vereda do Fanal – PR13
Distance: 5.6km
Average Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Fanal parking
Tips: Arrive at sunrise for a mystical experience.
7. Vereda Do Larano
Hiking Distance: 13km
Average Time: 4 hours
Inclination: 241m
Tips: Enjoy stunning coastal views from Machico to Porto da Cruz.
8. Levada do Caldeirão Verde – PR9
Hiking Distance: 12km
Average Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Enjoy lush jungle scenery and waterfalls, bring a flashlight for tunnels.
9. Caldeirão do Inferno Hike
Hiking Distance: 18km
Average Time: 6 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Explore spectacular waterfalls and a mesmerizing canyon.
10. The Levada do Moinho to Levada Nova Waterfall Hike
Hiking Distance: 9km
Average Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Encounter one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Madeira.
Madeira's hiking trails offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Whether you're seeking challenging treks or leisurely walks, there's something for everyone on this enchanting island. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Madeira!