A magnificent hike from the heights of Ponta Da Ladeira. Descend along winding paths through orchards and waterfalls to the Achadas da Cruz promenade. Climb back up via the Verada do Calhau path to the top of the cable car, then take the Levada do Calvario and return by road to the starting point.
Details
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Activity: Walking -
Distance: 7.31 mi
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Average duration: 6h 00
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Difficulty: Difficult
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Back to start: Yes
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Ascent: + 3,064 ft
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Descent: - 3,038 ft
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Highest point: 2,464 ft
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Lowest point: 20 ft
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Country: Madeira
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City: Porto Moniz
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Start/End: N 32.859432° / W 17.203283°
Waypoints
- S/E : mi 0 - alt. 1,312 ft
- S/E : mi 7.31 - alt. 1,312 ft
Other walks in the area
Fajã Quebrada Nova
This is a short but intense downhill hike to Fajã Quebrada Nova, a small farming hamlet on an ancient scree slope (see definition of "Fajã") at the ocean's edge and at the foot of the Achadas da Cruz cliffs.
The cable car ride up (for a fee, €3 in 2022) will also give you some thrills!
Levada do Molinho from Achadas da Cruz
Hike from Achadas da Cruz to the source of the Levada do Molinho
There are two steep stairways, which are not necessarily in good condition. The path is narrow and very dense (ferns and brambles), but the walk is very beautiful as you go upstream along the levada to the waterfall.
Lévada Grande or do Moinho
Take a cab/taxi almost to the beginning of the levada, then walk back down to Porto Moniz.
Ribeira da Janela Levada
This hike covers about half of the Levada da Ribeira da Janela (about 6 Km out of the 12 Km) and takes you through a dense, humid forest with a wall of vegetation, huge ferns and impressive rock faces.
There are a number of viewpoints over the valley of the Ribeira da Janela (the longest river in Madeira).
⚠️Please disregard the gradient indicated in the data sheet, which is virtually zero.
Discovering the Fanal Forest
This hike is suitable for children aged 5 and above.
Starting from the main car park, you will quickly find a path where you can enjoy the greenery and several ancient and unusual trees.
The trail then joins the PR®13 to the Fio viewpoint.
Return via a new trail to the Fanal esplanade, which offers a cluster of magnificent trees that make for superb photos.
The path continues to a pond where you can hear frogs croaking in the distance.
Finally, you pass a second waterhole, which is sometimes dry, before returning to your car.
No difficulties. It is humid as the hike takes place in the clouds, but it remains reasonable.
Seixal- Châo da Ribeira
Nice climb in the hinterland. A walk away from the crowd in the undergrowth between ferns and laurel. Beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Ribeira Grande waterfall via the Levada do Alecrim
A peaceful levada, shaded by heather, to discover the Lagoa da Dona Beja waterfall, followed by a descent to the Ribeira Grande waterfall, downstream of the Lagoa do Vento.
The Levadas of Rabaçal
It runs along the three very different Levadas, all interconnected by sloping paths. The route covers a varied landscape, crossing over diverse vegetation, and with beautiful views of the waterfalls. A hike whose direction and length can be adjusted depending on wishes or circumstances.
N.B. The displayed altitude difference is higher than reality (and consequently so is the average time for completion). Expect more in the realm of 600 metres in altitude.
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