Self-Guided Walking on Madeira
Madeira’s reputation as a walkers’ paradise is well-earned. The island’s criss-crossed by an ingenious system of irrigation channels known as levadas. These channels were constructed by the first settlers to transport water from the high mountains down to their farmlands on the coast – and the happy by-product for modern day hikers is an intricate network of beautiful and challenging walking trails
The engineering of the narrow paths and tunnels which the levadas pass through is fascinating. As a rough rule-of-thumb for self-guided walking: the paths in the south and west tend to be more leisurely and a little easier on the legs.
In the north and east, they’re more suited to experienced walkers with steep ravines and high cliffs where a good head for heights is crucial. We also offer private guided walks with our resident guides, or you might like to join a group for one of our regular day walks. Whichever type of trail you prefer, we’ll help you plan the perfect walking holiday.
