Machico walks

Physically demanding hike for the first 4 kilometres. Significant elevation gain. No elevation gain in the second half. A walk along the cliff edge with magnificent views. The path is well marked and signposted. There are a few exposed sections, but they are well protected by handrails.

From Terra do Baptista to Sao Roque do Faial, along the Castelejo canal, which is not the most spectacular in Madeira, but it is little frequented and offers beautiful scenery in the Ribeiro Frio valley.Comments : - the difference in altitude mentioned is incorrect; it is only 350 m downhill and 400 m uphill. And allow 3 hours- Allow €10 per person to return to the starting point by taxi from Sao Roque.

A walk at the eastern end of Madeira in the only semi-desert environment of the island. Beautiful scenery on top of colourful cliffs, beautiful views of the sea and a way to escape.

This walk is one of Madeira's shortest and easiest. It leads to the Balcões belvedere, with its impressive views of the island's highest peaks. Here we offer an alternative route for the last kilometer of the return journey. This alternative route makes the walk a little more challenging, while keeping you away from the crowds.

A must-do levada, very easy, for all ages, alternating shady sections on the mountainside, winding paths and panoramic views of the island's north coast and then the east coast as you reach Portela. Less busy than other levadas, the 10.5 Km walk is 4/5ths flat, with no change in altitude (very gentle slope all along the levada), except for a 200-meter drop in altitude on the last 2 Km of the walk. Take a cab back to the starting point.

Located below the famous PR®9 - Levada da Caldeirao Verde, this levada is much quieter and less crowded. The trail is not difficult, but caution is advised as, unlike the PR®9, there are no protective barriers. There are very few passages on the trail that are prone to vertigo, they are mainly located at the end and are less than 10 metres long. At the end of this levada, there is no large waterfall as on the PR®9, but a small waterfall surrounded by vegetation. The elevation gain shown on the information sheet is overestimated: allow for around 100 metres. As a result, allow for around four hours of walking time.

A short route downhill to Fajã dos Padres, an agricultural area open to tourists but inaccessible by car. In fact, there are only three ways to get there: on foot, by cable car or by boat. The descent via the hike allows you to enjoy the view of the cliff and waterfalls from different vantage points. Unlike the cable car, which takes five minutes to descend, you will have time to enjoy the walk down. However, be careful, as the path can be muddy after heavy rain and slippery. There are many steps.

This out-and-back hike follows one of Madeira's most beautiful levadas. Dotted with trees lying over the canal and tunnels, it leads you to the "Green Cauldron", a small cirque with a beautiful waterfall around 100 metres high. The passages through the tunnels, lit by headlamps, will liven up the walk with children. However, be careful with the youngest or the most restless, as some passages are narrow and vertiginous. Difference in altitude of less than 100 metres, do not take into account the data in the technical data sheet.

Climb to the highest point of the island of Madeira, taking the easier route. Beautiful mountain scenery and a superb 360° panorama at the top.

Halfway up/down towards Pico Ruivo, there is a connection to the PR®1.1 which descends towards Ilha. It is quite steep and challenging in places, but the change in vegetation makes this part very pleasant. The hike does not go too far (-300m elevation gain) as you have to climb back up to return to the car park at Achado do Texeira (starting point for Pico Ruivo). For the more motivated, however, there is the option of really going down and joining the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, then climbing back up towards Achado do Texeira.

A fabulous but demanding hike that leads through exceptional panoramas and vertiginous peaks to the island's highest summit. Although the route is completely safe, it may not be suitable for those prone to vertigo. The path is paved throughout and includes tunnels. N.B. The altitude difference shown is obviously overestimated (which happens in very steep terrain like this): count on around 1000m. Walk closed at the moment.

The PR®18 Levado do Rei is an accessible and enjoyable hike, ideal for discovering the beauty of Madeira's levadas in complete tranquillity. Less crowded than the famous PR®9, it offers a shaded route through the heart of a lush primary forest. The trail follows an old irrigation canal, a historical reminder of sugar cane cultivation, built at the time by convicts and slaves. The trail starts from a small car park just after a restaurant (ideal for a break after the walk), passing close to the water treatment plant. After a short climb of about 50 metres, the path becomes flat and easy to follow, with a refreshing passage under a waterfall before arriving at the Bonito water source. This walk is recommended early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Perfect for walkers seeking peace, history and nature. Elevation gain of only 150 metres.

The hike is technically easy but quite physically demanding (steep descent). Parking is available in the car park near the shops. The path is clearly marked and well signposted. Start by heading to the viewpoint (access path to the left of the shops); it would be a shame to miss it (even if it is very busy with tourists). You can admire a magnificent view of the village nestled in the centre of an ancient volcanic crater. Retrace your steps to take the path down to the village of Curral das Freiras (to the right of the shops, signposted). You’ll find plenty of places to quench your thirst and grab a bite to eat there. (Plenty of shops, though a bit pricey) Please note! Steep gradient, as with many hikes in Madeira.

An easy walk along the coast. There is no or very little elevation gain. Recommended for people of all ages. Throughout the walk, you can enjoy a bite to eat or a drink whilst admiring the ocean views. You’ll pass through a lit tunnel about 50 metres long. Please note that the tunnel is open from 9.00 am to 10.00 pm. Entry is free. You will arrive in Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village. (Plenty of restaurants and bars). A family walk!

Climb to the highest point of the island of Madeira, and by the road less travelled. A long and demanding hike in diverse environments. Beautiful viewpoints on the route and, at the top, a beautiful 360° view. N.B. Due to the steep crags of Madeira, the displayed altitude difference is overestimated and, therefore, so is the estimate of the time. Expect the elevation to be more in the order of 1,200 m in both directions.

Madeira Island is filled with irrigation canals, the Levadas. This short hike takes you along the Levada do Norte, one of the most significant of the island, located in an elevated part of the island. You'll find stunning viewpoints along the way and go through a beautiful forest with various species. N.B. The altitude displayed is most probably over estimated as the trail is relatively flat along the Levada following the contour line.

This hike combines the PR® 21 with part of the PR® 22. A challenging hike due to the elevation gain and numerous steps. Careful descent and cardio-intensive climb back up. A real pleasure to complete this challenge.