Hidden Corners: Levada Walk From Funchal

Tucked away in Madeira’s serene countryside lies a hidden gem – the captivating Levada Walk from Funchal. This full-day guided hike through the picturesque São Jorge Valley promises an immersive journey into nature’s enchantment. Spanning 8 miles, the trail showcases the island’s breathtaking landscapes, from serene waterfalls to diverse native flora. As participants traverse the picturesque terrain, they’ll learn about local herbs and medicinal plants from a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this adventure offers a chance to uncover Madeira’s lesser-known wonders.

Key Points

• The Levada Walk offers a guided hike through the lush and tranquil landscapes of the São Jorge Valley.
• The full-day tour starts at 9:00 am from Funchal and covers 8 miles (13 km) of picturesque terrain.
• Participants will learn about the local flora, including medicinal herbs, from a professional guide.
• Round-trip hotel transport and all taxes are included, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and participants are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring a packed lunch.

Exploring the São Jorge Valley

The Levada Walk from Funchal guides hikers through the lush São Jorge Valley, a verdant landscape carpeted with native flora.

Along the trail, visitors’ll discover a peaceful waterfall and have the chance to learn about the region’s diverse plants, including herbs and medicinal varieties.

The 8-mile hike follows a levada, or canal, offering scenic views of the valley’s rolling hills and lush vegetation.

Trekkers’ll want to bring sturdy shoes and a packed lunch to fully enjoy this full-day adventure in the heart of Madeira’s natural splendor.

Levada Hike Itinerary and Duration

The full-day Levada Walk from Funchal starts at 9:00 am, offering hikers a scenic journey through the lush São Jorge Valley.

The 8-hour tour covers 8 miles (13 km) of picturesque trail, passing by verdant valleys, native plants, and a peaceful waterfall.

Along the way, the professional guide provides insights into the local flora, including herbs and medicinal plants.

Participants should wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots and bring a packed lunch, as food and drinks aren’t included.

The tour includes round-trip transport from selected Funchal hotels and all necessary taxes and fees.

Hotel Pickup and Meeting Points

Typically, the Levada Walk tour offers pickup from selected hotels within the Funchal area. Guests can be picked up directly from their accommodation, avoiding the hassle of finding the starting point.

For those not staying in the recommended hotels, the tour also has designated meeting points throughout Funchal. These meeting locations provide a convenient and accessible starting point for the hike.

The tour concludes back at the original pickup or meeting spot, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure. Guests should confirm their preferred pickup or meeting arrangement when booking the tour to ensure a smooth transportation experience.

What the Tour Includes

Generally, the Levada Walk tour includes round-trip transport from selected hotels in Funchal. Travelers will be accompanied by a professional guide throughout the hike. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are covered – there are no hidden costs. While food and drinks are not provided, participants can bring their own packed lunch. The tour is an excellent opportunity to take in Madeira’s stunning natural beauty and learn about the local flora, including herbs and medicinal plants.

What’s Included	What’s Not Included
Round-trip hotel transport	Food and drinks
Professional hiking guide	N/A
All taxes and fees	N/A
Learn about local plants	N/A

Recommended Attire and Provisions

Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are a must for the Levada Walk tour. The terrain can be uneven, with rocky and muddy sections. Comfortable, broken-in footwear that provides good traction is essential.

Participants should also bring a packed lunch, as there are no food options along the trail. Staying hydrated is important, so a refillable water bottle is recommended.

Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is advisable due to the exposed nature of the hike. Plus, layers of clothing are suggested, as the weather can be cool in the valleys.

Tour Accessibility and Restrictions

The Levada Walk tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is generally not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers. This is due to the uneven terrain, steep inclines, and narrow paths along the levada canal.

However, the tour does offer an opportunity for active travelers to explore the scenic São Jorge Valley.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, hikers should:

1. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes or hiking boots.
2. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.
3. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
4. Follow the guidance of the professional guide throughout the tour.

While certain restrictions apply, the Levada Walk provides an immersive experience in Madeira’s natural beauty.

Cancellation Policy and Admission

Regarding the cancellation policy, travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the Levada Walk experience begins. Plus, the admission ticket for this tour is free, and confirmation is provided at the time of booking.

Admission Ticket	Cancellation Policy
Free	Free up to 24 hours before tour

This flexibility allows visitors to plan their Madeira adventures with ease, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. The Levada Walk offers an immersive nature experience that is accessible to most, barring certain physical limitations outlined in the tour details.

Traveler Ratings and Reviews

Based on the 12 reviews gathered, the Levada Walk tour from Funchal has earned overwhelmingly positive ratings from travelers.

The tour boasts a 5.0 overall rating, with 9 five-star and 3 four-star reviews.

Here are four key highlights from the traveler feedback:

1. 100% of travelers recommended the tour.
2. Reviewers praised the scenic beauty of the trail, including lush valleys, native plants, and a peaceful waterfall.
3. The guide’s expertise in sharing information about local flora and medicinal plants was well-received.
4. Participants appreciated the convenience of round-trip transportation from their Funchal hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do the Levada Walk Tour?

The Levada Walk Tour is best enjoyed during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are mild and the scenery is lush. The tour operates year-round, but the ideal time for this hiking experience is when weather conditions are most comfortable.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The Levada Walk Tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, as the hike can be challenging. Participants should be physically fit to complete the 8-mile trail.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Levada Walk Tour. The tour operator requires participants to bring sturdy hiking boots and a packed lunch, but does not permit bringing pets along the 8-mile scenic trail.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

Yes, the tour guide is fluent in English. The Levada Walk Tour in Madeira, Portugal, employs professional guides who can communicate effectively with English-speaking participants throughout the full-day hiking experience along the scenic levada trail.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not provide any food or drinks. Participants should bring their own packed lunch. There are no special dietary requirements for this hiking tour, though vegetarian or gluten-free options may be advisable for some.

Recap

The "Hidden Corners: Levada Walk From Funchal" offers an enchanting full-day guided hike through the stunning São Jorge Valley. Spanning 8 miles, this immersive experience showcases Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes, including serene waterfalls and diverse native flora. With round-trip transport, sturdy footwear, and a packed lunch, adventurers can traverse the picturesque terrain while learning about local herbs and medicinal plants from a knowledgeable guide.