Levada do Rei: A Beautiful Walk in Madeira

Madeira is famous for its beautiful landscapes and hiking trails. One of the best trails is Levada do Rei, or the King’s Levada. This trail takes you through lush forests, colorful plants, and offers stunning views of the valley. It’s perfect for everyone, from experienced hikers to families looking for a nice walk in nature. Levada do Rei promises a peaceful and enjoyable adventure for all.

Table of Contents

1. Route Description
2. How to get to Levada do Rei
3. Hazards and Recommendations

1. Route Description

Levada do Rei, or the King’s Levada, is a lovely trail in Madeira. It’s about 9.7 kilometers round trip and is good for all levels of hikers, including families with kids. Starting from the village of São Jorge, the trail follows an irrigation channel called a levada. You’ll walk through thick forests full of native plants and flowers. The path is mostly flat and easy to walk on. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful views of the São Jorge Valley. The trail ends at Ribeiro Bonito stream, a peaceful spot where you can rest before heading back. For those wanting a longer hike, you can extend the Levada do Rei trail to Ribeiro Bonito. After the initial endpoint, continue along the levada through denser forests and more varied vegetation. The final stretch offers a shaded path under a canopy of trees. Ribeiro Bonito is a serene spot with clear, gentle stream waters, perfect for relaxing or having a picnic. After enjoying this peaceful area, retrace your steps back to São Jorge for a more complete and rewarding hiking experience.

2. How to get to Levada do Rei

Getting to Levada do Rei is easy. If you’re coming from Funchal, Madeira’s capital, you can drive or take a bus to São Jorge. By car, follow the ER101 northwest, then follow signs to Santana and São Jorge. The drive takes about 45 minutes, and there’s parking near the trail. Buses also run from Funchal to São Jorge. Check local schedules for times. The trailhead in São Jorge is well-marked and easy to find. When it comes to renting a car in Madeira, I recommend using family driving company Carwave Madeira. All the cars are new, fully equipped and include full insurance, no security deposit required and no hold credit card numbers. Book your rental car.

3. Hazards and Recommendations

While Levada do Rei is considered an easy hike, there are a few recommendations:

1. Slippery Paths: The trail can get slippery, especially after rain. It’s important to wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip to prevent slips and falls.
2. Narrow Sections: Some parts of the trail are narrow and have steep drop-offs. Exercise caution in these areas and keep an eye on children.
3. Changing Weather: The weather in Madeira can change quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket and be prepared for both sunshine and rain.
4. Falling Rocks: In some areas, there is a risk of falling rocks. Pay attention to warning signs and avoid stopping in these zones.
5. Start Early: Begin your hike in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Levada do Rei is a wonderful hike that showcases the natural beauty of Madeira. It’s perfect for all skill levels, offering stunning views and a chance to explore lush forests. With a few precautions and the right preparation, you can enjoy a safe and delightful walk.

By the way, don’t forget to check out my guide to Madeira Island. Creating this map has been a labor of love – it includes top destinations and hikes, various activities, hidden gems, mesmerizing waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, among many other treasures.

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