The Chao da Ribeira Valley is perhaps one of the most untouched tourist locations in Madeira. Green forests, mountain landscapes, numerous cascading waterfalls – all of this makes it one of my favorite places in Madeira. In this article, I will tell you about the unique hiking experience in Chao da Ribeira and what makes this trail so captivating.
DISTANCE
10.6 km / 6.6 mi loop
ESTIMATED TIME
3 hr 40 min
ELEVATION GAIN
1325 m / 4347 feet
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
Table of Contents
1. Route Description
The trail is a 10-kilometer circular route passing through Madeira’s laurel forests. First, you ascend the mountain, weave through abundant greenery, encounter several waterfalls along the way, and at the top of the trail, you’ll see the Desejal Meadow. Walking along this meadow, you’ll also see several stunning waterfalls, one of which is at the end of a tunnel, pouring its abundant waters into the entire floor of this tunnel. Exiting the tunnel, you’ll be amazed by the enormity of this waterfall and how it captures your imagination.
Honestly, I don’t even know how many waterfalls I saw on this trail, and no one can tell you exactly their number because it all depends on the weather the day before your hike. If there were rains, you’ll see no less than 15 waterfalls. If you go on this hike during the dry season, you’ll probably see only 3-4 waterfalls. At the end of the hike, you descend down the mountain, where you’ll need to cross a small river and return through the stunning laurel forest back to the parking lot.
2. Hazards and Recommendations
For the firs time I visited this trail with a local guide, and if you also want to explore it, I do not recommend doing it alone. Be sure to consult a certified guide.
The trail along the Desejal Meadow is on a cliff with light fences, and I wouldn’t recommend going there for people afraid of heights, or with children or pets. This trail is definitely not suitable for this category of hikers. Rather, this trail is more suitable for experienced hikers seeking adventures away from beaten paths.
I filmed a 10-minute video review of this trail and tried to capture the atmosphere of the hike. This is my premiere on YouTube, and I would be very grateful for likes, reposts, and comments. Be sure to watch it until the end – I’m confident you’ll like my signature sign-off.
3. How to get to Chao da Ribeira
By Car: Drive northwest from Funchal on the ER101 road towards Porto Moniz. After passing through Ribeira Brava and São Vicente, continue on the ER101 until you reach the left turn to Chao da Ribeira, than drive up the mountains to the Chao da Ribeira parking lot .
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By Public Transport: Take a bus from Funchal to Porto Moniz and get off at the nearest stop to Chao da Ribeira. From there, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the trailhead.
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour that includes transportation to Chao da Ribeira. Many tour companies on Madeira offer guided hikes to this scenic location.
Starting your trip to Chao da Ribeira lets you explore the amazing natural scenery of Madeira. You’ll see beautiful landscapes and waterfalls as you walk along the trail. Come join me on this adventure and see for yourself the beauty of Chao da Ribeira! If you want more destinations check out my interactive guide + map with all the tips and insights to explore the island.
Isn’t Madeira a Green Paradise? 🌿✨
This island is a masterpiece of nature—lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. From the mystical Laurisilva forest to the endless levada trails, Madeira feels like stepping into another world.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring volcanic cliffs, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Madeira is a destination that never stops giving.
💡 Planning your trip?
👉🏼 Check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO MADEIRA — your perfect companion to uncover the island’s most stunning spots 💫
🌍 Link in bio 👆🏻
#MadeiraIsland #GreenParadise #ExploreMadeira #greenearth #HikingParadise #Madeira #PrivateGuide #LevadaWalks #DiscoverMadeira #TravelMap #TravelMadeira #HiddenGems #IslandEscape #MadeiraLovers #NatureAtItsBest
Isn’t Madeira a Green Paradise? 🌿✨
This island is a masterpiece of nature—lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. From the mystical Laurisilva forest to the endless levada trails, Madeira feels like stepping into another world.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring volcanic cliffs, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Madeira is a destination that never stops giving.
💡 Planning your trip?
👉🏼 Check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO MADEIRA — your perfect companion to uncover the island’s most stunning spots 💫
🌍 Link in bio 👆🏻
#MadeiraIsland #GreenParadise #ExploreMadeira #greenearth #HikingParadise #Madeira #PrivateGuide #LevadaWalks #DiscoverMadeira #TravelMap #TravelMadeira #HiddenGems #IslandEscape #MadeiraLovers #NatureAtItsBest
What could be better than a peaceful evening hike surrounded by Madeira’s stunning landscapes?
As the sun sets and the island is bathed in golden light, the trails take on a magical charm. The cooler temperatures, the soft sounds of nature, and the breathtaking views make evening hikes an unforgettable experience.
To be honest, evening hikes, just before sunset, are my absolute favorite time to hit the trails. Even the most popular routes feel empty, giving you the rare sense of complete solitude. The landscapes and stunning views feel like they belong only to you, wrapped in the golden hues of the setting sun.
If you ask me whether I’d choose evening hikes over morning ones, my answer would be a resounding 100%! And not just because I’m not a fan of waking up in the dark to an alarm clock 🙂
What about you? Which hike do you prefer — sunrise or sunset?
And if you’re still planning your trip to Madeira, be sure to check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
👉🏼 It covers the best trails, my personal tips, and everything you need for a perfect trip—from top spots to hotels and restaurants 🏨
🔗 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#EveningHike #HikingTrails #SunsetAdventures #HikingParadise #PrivateGuide #GoldenHourLight #MadeiraIsland #HikingAddict #DiscoverMadeira #HikingTrip #SunsetHike #IslandMagic #Madeira #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreMadeira #TravelMap #hikingvibes
What could be better than a peaceful evening hike surrounded by Madeira’s stunning landscapes?
As the sun sets and the island is bathed in golden light, the trails take on a magical charm. The cooler temperatures, the soft sounds of nature, and the breathtaking views make evening hikes an unforgettable experience.
To be honest, evening hikes, just before sunset, are my absolute favorite time to hit the trails. Even the most popular routes feel empty, giving you the rare sense of complete solitude. The landscapes and stunning views feel like they belong only to you, wrapped in the golden hues of the setting sun.
If you ask me whether I’d choose evening hikes over morning ones, my answer would be a resounding 100%! And not just because I’m not a fan of waking up in the dark to an alarm clock 🙂
What about you? Which hike do you prefer — sunrise or sunset?
And if you’re still planning your trip to Madeira, be sure to check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
👉🏼 It covers the best trails, my personal tips, and everything you need for a perfect trip—from top spots to hotels and restaurants 🏨
🔗 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#EveningHike #HikingTrails #SunsetAdventures #HikingParadise #PrivateGuide #GoldenHourLight #MadeiraIsland #HikingAddict #DiscoverMadeira #HikingTrip #SunsetHike #IslandMagic #Madeira #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreMadeira #TravelMap #hikingvibes
Imagine a short trail leading to a staircase carved into the rocks, taking you to one of the most breathtaking views on the island. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Now picture standing there at sunrise, with a panoramic view stretching over lush landscapes of Santana. No crowds, no distractions—just you and the beauty of nature.
This spot is more than a viewpoint; it’s an experience waiting to be uncovered 😉
Hidden gems like this remind us why Madeira is a true paradise for explorers 🌿🥾
📍Miradouro do Pico Redondo, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
These uncovered treasures are what make Madeira so special. And the best part? There’s so much more to discover. From secret viewpoints to lesser-known trails, you’ll find countless hidden gems and true treasures in MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗link in bio👆🏻
#HiddenGems #PicoRedondo #ExploreMadeira #Madeira #DiscoverMadeira #MadeiraIsland #SunriseView #SunriseSky #OffTheBeatenPath #Trailblazing #TravelMadeira #VisitMadeira #TravelDiscoveries #SecretSpot #MadeiraLovers #ScenicViews #PrivateGuide #HiddenSpot #WorthTheHike #TravelMap #Sunrisemagic #HiddenTreasures #HiddenGem
Imagine a short trail leading to a staircase carved into the rocks, taking you to one of the most breathtaking views on the island. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Now picture standing there at sunrise, with a panoramic view stretching over lush landscapes of Santana. No crowds, no distractions—just you and the beauty of nature.
This spot is more than a viewpoint; it’s an experience waiting to be uncovered 😉
Hidden gems like this remind us why Madeira is a true paradise for explorers 🌿🥾
📍Miradouro do Pico Redondo, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
These uncovered treasures are what make Madeira so special. And the best part? There’s so much more to discover. From secret viewpoints to lesser-known trails, you’ll find countless hidden gems and true treasures in MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗link in bio👆🏻
#HiddenGems #PicoRedondo #ExploreMadeira #Madeira #DiscoverMadeira #MadeiraIsland #SunriseView #SunriseSky #OffTheBeatenPath #Trailblazing #TravelMadeira #VisitMadeira #TravelDiscoveries #SecretSpot #MadeiraLovers #ScenicViews #PrivateGuide #HiddenSpot #WorthTheHike #TravelMap #Sunrisemagic #HiddenTreasures #HiddenGem
There’s something magical about chasing the first rays of sunlight, especially when you find a spot that offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. This place didn’t disappoint—the sky lit up with shades of purple, orange and pink, creating the perfect moment to start the day.
Whether you’re an early riser or need a little motivation to wake up, this sunrise location is well worth it. It’s not just about the view but the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of connection to nature that Madeira offers so generously.
📍Miradouro do Guindaste, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
✈️Planning your Madeira trip?
👉🏼My INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️features even more incredible locations, including the BEST SUNRISE & SUNSET SPOTS across the island💫
🧞♂️It’s your go-to for discovering the magic of Madeira
🌍 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#ExploreMadeira #SunriseMagic #TravelMap #ScenicView #BucketListDestination #MadeiraIsland #sunrises_and_sunsets #SunriseLover #MadeiraHikes #TravelMadeira #HiddenGem #PrivateGuide #TravelMap #DiscoverMadeira #Madeira #DawnToday #sunrisesky #OceanCliff #BucketListAdventures #sunrise_sunset #MadeiraGuide #sunrise_sunset_worldwide #VisitMadeira
There’s something magical about chasing the first rays of sunlight, especially when you find a spot that offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. This place didn’t disappoint—the sky lit up with shades of purple, orange and pink, creating the perfect moment to start the day.
Whether you’re an early riser or need a little motivation to wake up, this sunrise location is well worth it. It’s not just about the view but the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of connection to nature that Madeira offers so generously.
📍Miradouro do Guindaste, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
✈️Planning your Madeira trip?
👉🏼My INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️features even more incredible locations, including the BEST SUNRISE & SUNSET SPOTS across the island💫
🧞♂️It’s your go-to for discovering the magic of Madeira
🌍 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#ExploreMadeira #SunriseMagic #TravelMap #ScenicView #BucketListDestination #MadeiraIsland #sunrises_and_sunsets #SunriseLover #MadeiraHikes #TravelMadeira #HiddenGem #PrivateGuide #TravelMap #DiscoverMadeira #Madeira #DawnToday #sunrisesky #OceanCliff #BucketListAdventures #sunrise_sunset #MadeiraGuide #sunrise_sunset_worldwide #VisitMadeira
