The Details
Madeira is famous for its levadas – an ingenious system of irrigation channels which transport fresh water from the high mountains, down to the towns and villages on the coast. Constructed by the first settlers on the island in the 15th century, the original levadas were quite rudimentary – as techniques and technology evolved, more sophisticated hard-wearing channels were constructed from the basalt bedrock.
A happy by-product of these hard-fought feats of engineering are the levada walking trails, which allow 21st century visitors to explore some of the most beautiful and remote areas on the island. We’ve included a nice range of trails which will allow you to explore the whole island – from the gently scenic Levada dos Marocos in the south to the more challenging Caldeirao Verde trail in the north.
You’ll be based in Funchal, giving you access to the island’s best restaurants in the evenings – we’ve recommended a stay at one of our favourite hotels in the capital: Quintinha Sao Joao. As always, we can personalise your holiday if you’d prefer not to walk every day, or if you’d like to stay for more than a week.
