The Levada Walk from Pico Das Pedras to Queimadas and Caldeirão Verde offers an enchanting journey through Madeira’s UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest. Spanning 16 km, this easy trail winds alongside ancient irrigation channels, revealing breathtaking vistas of lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and the captivating Caldeirão Verde lake. Along the way, hikers can explore traditional thatched-roof houses in Santana, experiencing the island’s rich heritage while surrounded by unique flora and fauna in a serene natural environment. Those seeking an immersive exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders won’t want to miss this captivating walk.
Key Points
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The Levada Walk takes participants through the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest, featuring impressive canyon valleys and hand-excavated tunnels along a 16 km easy, flat route.
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Highlights include the waterfall-formed lake of Caldeirão Verde at 100m, and a visit to one of the oldest thatched-roof houses in Santana.
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The walk is suitable for able-bodied participants, with safety measures in place for narrow areas, and restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Complimentary hotel pick-up and a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance provide a stress-free start to the adventure.
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Participants can enjoy the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of Madeira, capturing stunning scenery with their cameras along the way.
Activity Overview
The Levada Walk Pico das Pedras/Queimadas/Caldeirão Verde is a 5-hour activity that accommodates up to 14 participants, though it’s limited to 4 for small groups.
The tour is offered in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, with pick-up included from hotels or accommodations 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The easy, flat 16 km walk explores the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest, showcasing lush landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls along one of the island’s most spectacular Levadas, or irrigation channels, built in the 15th century.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Santana Madeira.
Experience Highlights
Explore Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this captivating journey. Discover lush landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls as you walk along one of the most spectacular Levadas on the island. Visit the waterfall-formed lake of Caldeirão Verde at 100m and stop at one of the oldest thatched-roof houses in Santana.
| Experience Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Explore Laurissilva Forest | Discover lush landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls | Walk along one of the most spectacular Levadas |
| Visit the waterfall-formed lake of Caldeirão Verde | Stop at one of the oldest thatched-roof houses in Santana | — |
| — | — | — |
Route Details
This easy, flat walk of 16 km features impressive canyon valleys and ancient Levadas built in the 15th century.
Along the way, you’ll discover four hand-excavated tunnels. Though some narrow areas may cause vertigo, protections are in place to ensure your safety.
The route showcases the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its lush landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls.
One highlight is the waterfall-formed lake of Caldeirão Verde, which stands at an impressive 100m.
This scenic walk offers a chance to experience the island’s natural wonders firsthand.
What to Bring
Equipped with a camera to capture the stunning scenery, hikers should also bring food and drinks to sustain them during the 5-hour trek.
Comfortable hiking shoes are a must, as the terrain can be uneven. Staying hydrated is crucial, so a water bottle is essential.
To be prepared for potential rain, rain gear is recommended. Participants should wear loose, comfortable clothing and extra socks.
Prohibited items include high-heeled shoes, pets, baby strollers, smoking, drones, drinks in the vehicle, alcohol and drugs, electric wheelchairs, and bare feet.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyRestrictions
The levada walk is not suitable for children under 7 years old. Other prohibited items include high-heeled shoes, pets, baby strollers, smoking, drones, drinks in the vehicle, alcohol and drugs, electric wheelchairs, and bare feet.
| Prohibited Items | Reason |
|---|---|
| High-heeled shoes | Safety hazard |
| Pets | Disturbance to wildlife |
| Baby strollers | Narrow paths |
| Smoking | Fire risk |
| Drones | Illegal without permit |
| Alcohol and drugs | Safety concern |
This walk is designed for able-bodied participants. Those with limited mobility should consider an alternative activity. Adherence to these restrictions ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Pick-up and Cancellation
The tour operator picks up participants from their hotel or accommodation 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. This complimentary pick-up service ensures a smooth start to the day’s adventure.
The Levada Walk has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy provides participants with the freedom to adjust their plans if needed, without incurring any penalties.
The combination of convenient pick-up and a forgiving cancellation policy contributes to an overall positive and stress-free experience for those embarking on the Levada Walk Pico das Pedras/Queimadas/Caldeirão Verde.
Laurissilva Forest Exploration
Nestled within the stunning Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Levada Walk takes adventurers on a captivating journey through lush, verdant landscapes.
Discover ancient Levadas, or irrigation channels, that were hand-excavated centuries ago, winding through impressive canyon valleys.
Explore the breathtaking Caldeirão Verde waterfall-formed lake, surrounded by towering cliffs.
Along the way, glimpse the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this protected, primeval forest.
Though the trail is relatively flat and easy, hikers should exercise caution in narrow areas that may cause vertigo.
With its awe-inspiring natural beauty, this Levada Walk offers a truly immersive experience in one of the world’s last remaining laurel forests.
Thatched-roof House Visit
As visitors meander through the lush Laurissilva Forest, one of the highlights of the Levada Walk is a stop at one of the oldest thatched-roof houses in Santana.
These charming structures, with their distinctive roofs made of straw, offer a glimpse into the traditional architecture of the region.
Guests can explore the interior of the house, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship and experiencing a sense of stepping back in time.
The visit provides a culture, allowing participants to appreciate the rich heritage and enduring practices that have shaped the landscape of Madeira.
This stop on the Levada Walk offers a unique opportunity to connect with the island’s history and traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Level of Physical Difficulty of the Hike?
The hike is rated as easy, with a flat 16 km walk. While some narrow areas may cause vertigo, safety protections are in place. It’s suitable for most participants, but not recommended for children under 7.
Are Restroom Facilities Available Along the Route?
While restroom facilities may not be readily available along the entire route, the hike is described as an "easy, flat walk" without significant elevation changes, providing ample opportunities for participants to take breaks as needed.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Lunch or Are Meals Provided?
Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch and snacks for the hike, as no meals are provided. This allows flexibility in enjoying the scenic route at their own pace.
Is the Hike Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues or Disabilities?
The hike may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or disabilities, as it includes some narrow areas and steep terrain. However, the route has protections in place, so individual abilities should be considered.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The activity has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for children under 7 years old. Older participants should ensure they have the necessary mobility and fitness level to complete the 16km easy, flat hike.
Recap
The Levada Walk from Pico Das Pedras to Queimadas and Caldeirão Verde offers an unforgettable journey through Madeira’s lush Laurissilva Forest. Hikers will marvel at cascading waterfalls, serene landscapes, and the captivating Caldeirão Verde lake. Along the way, they’ll explore traditional thatched-roof houses, seeing the island’s rich heritage amidst unique flora and fauna. This easy, flat 16 km trail provides an enchanting experience for all who embark on this UNESCO World Heritage adventure.
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