Madeira Hike Levada Nova Moinhos Ponta do Sol

Madeira Hike Levada Nova Moinhos Ponta do Sol offers an inviting way to explore one of the island’s most beautiful and accessible levadas. With a perfect balance of scenic beauty, local flavor, and manageable adventure, this tour appeals to a wide range of travelers — from seasoned hikers to families seeking a taste of Madeira’s outdoors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guided expertise of the local driver and guide, Richard, ensures you get insightful commentary alongside safety. Second, the spectacular views over Ponta do Sol’s valley are hard to beat, especially as the trail passes waterfalls and narrow paths high above the landscape. Third, the delicious picnic with local snacks and drinks offers a relaxed break in the middle of nature’s beauty.

A minor consideration: this hike involves narrow, high-up paths, so it’s not suitable for vertigo-prone visitors or those uncomfortable with heights. But for those who meet the physical and comfort requirements, this trail promises a memorable, scenic adventure. This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience of Madeira’s lush interior.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking panoramas over Ponta do Sol and its valley.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable local guides who enrich your experience.
• Flexible for Families: Suitable for those with good fitness levels and no vertigo.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes transportation, local snacks, and a refreshing drink.
• Small Group or Private: Personalized experience with a maximum of 8 travelers.
• Weather Flexibility: Tours are subject to weather conditions, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

A Deep Dive into the Madeira Hike Levada Nova Moinhos Ponta do Sol

When it comes to experiencing Madeira’s lush landscapes, few activities can match the charm of a levada walk. This tour takes you along the Levada Nova and Moinhos, two of the island’s most scenic and accessible levadas, located in the warmest part of Madeira. The landscape here is a vivid green smattered with tiny waterfalls, and the trails are carved into the hillside with views that seem to stretch forever.

What to Expect on Your Guided Hike

The day begins at a convenient meeting point in Funchal, where your guide, Richard, greets you with enthusiasm and local insights. The small-group setting means you’re never lost in a crowd, and Richard’s experience shines through — his driving was praised as excellent in reviews, and his wealth of knowledge makes the journey informative and fun.

The transportation from the meeting point to the trailhead takes about a short drive, giving you time to settle in and chat. Once on the trail, you’ll start weaving through dense greenery, with the trail often hugging the hillside and providing inspiring views over the valley below. The walk is about 5 hours total, which includes the picnic break, so it’s a good fit for those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy a good walk but aren’t looking for an intense workout.

The Trail Experience

Part of the allure of this hike is the variety of scenery. You’ll pass by small waterfalls, which are perfect for snapping photos or simply enjoying the calming sights and sounds. The trail’s narrow sections, perched high above the landscape, mean that balance and comfort with heights are necessary — one reviewer even said, “not for giddiness,” but noted that the views more than made up for any nervousness.

Reviews from previous travelers highlight the exceptional quality of the trail. One described it as “the best levada walk ever,” emphasizing the diversity of sights and the smooth organization of the tour. Their private experience with Richard allowed them to indulge in a fountain of information, making the hike both educational and enjoyable.

A Picnic in Paradise

Midway through the walk, everyone is offered a picnic with local snacks, a relaxed chance to enjoy Madeira’s warm weather. The picnic is accompanied by a local drink — a lovely detail that adds a convivial, authentic touch to the day. Reviewers appreciated this break as “delightful,” with one saying it created a perfect moment of connection with nature.

Toasting Madeira: Poncha and Craft Beer

No Madeira adventure would be complete without a toast. After the hike, there’s the opportunity to enjoy Poncha, a traditional local drink, served in a friendly setting. For those interested, trying one of the island’s craft beers is also recommended — a fun way to wrap up the day.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour’s price, $83.07 per person, offers excellent value considering all that’s included. Transportation from central meeting points, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, the picnic with local snacks, and a local drink are all part of the package. Plus, the tour is insured by local law, adding peace of mind.

However, travelers should note some essentials: proper hiking shoes or sturdy footwear are recommended, as the trail’s narrow and high-up sections could be challenging for some. A raincoat, hat, and sunscreen are wise additions — Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes and possible path closures, as some reviews mentioned.

The tour caters to individuals over 16 with a good fitness level, and it’s not suitable for those with vertigo or fears of heights. Group size is limited to 8, allowing for more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

Transportation & Meeting Points

Starting at Av. do Mar e das Comunidades Madeirenses in Funchal, the tour begins at 9:00 am. Pickup from key locations like Lido and Caniço makes it convenient for many travelers. The end point is back at the meeting location, making logistics straightforward.

Weather Considerations

Tour organizers are flexible if the weather turns nasty: if paths are closed or conditions deemed unsafe, they will inform you in advance and reschedule or refund if needed. It’s good to keep an eye on the forecast and pack accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Personal Touches

The reviews tell us that Richard is a key part of this experience’s charm. His engaging style, local knowledge, and ability to make the walk enjoyable even for those with initial concerns (like vertigo) stand out. One reviewer noted that Richard’s “fountain of information” made the walk so much richer, and another appreciated the private tour option, which allowed for a more personalized adventure.

The emphasis on local snacks and drinks also adds an authentic touch, giving you a taste of Madeira’s culinary delights amid the lush scenery. The inclusion of a picnic with local snacks is a thoughtful addition that travelers consistently praise — it’s less about the food and more about the experience of savoring them in nature.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided levada walk suits travelers looking for a scenic, moderate hike with a touch of local flavor. It’s particularly good for those who love nature, want expert guidance, and enjoy the comfort of small groups or private tours. Its inclusive picnic and relaxed pace make it suitable for families with kids over 16 and for those who want a slice of authentic Madeira life.

If your fitness level is good and you’re comfortable with heights, this trail offers some of the best views in Madeira. However, if vertigo or adverse weather are concerns, it’s wise to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira hike along the Levada Nova and Moinhos trails is an accessible yet awe-inspiring way to experience the island’s lush interior. It combines the thrill of narrow, high trails with the serenity of waterfalls and panoramic views, topped off with local snacks and drinks that make you feel truly part of Madeira’s vibrant culture.

The guided aspect, especially with a host as knowledgeable and friendly as Richard, ensures you get the most out of this experience without the stress of navigation or logistics. It’s a great choice for travelers who want an authentic, scenic adventure that balances activity with relaxation.

For those seeking a beautiful, manageable hike with expert guidance and a taste of local life, this tour offers excellent value and memories that will stay with you long after you leave Madeira.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation from select meeting points in Funchal, Lido, and Caniço is included.

What is the tour’s duration? The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including walking, breaks, and transportation.

Can I join if I’m not a seasoned hiker? Yes, provided you have good fitness and are comfortable with moderate terrain and heights.

Is there a minimum age? Yes, participants must be 16 years or older.

What should I bring? Bring sturdy shoes, a backpack, raincoat, sunscreen, and a hat. A small backpack (11x12x20cm) is recommended for your picnic.

What does the tour include? It includes transportation, a local guide, bottled water, a picnic with local snacks, a local drink, and insurance.

What if the weather is bad? Tours are flexible — if bad weather makes the trail unsafe, you’ll be rescheduled or refunded.

How many people are in each group? Limited to 8 travelers for a personalized experience.

Can I do this tour if I have vertigo? No, it’s not suitable for those with vertigo or fear of heights.

This guided levada walk in Madeira offers a wonderful mix of scenery, culture, and comfort — perfect for travelers eager to see the island’s natural beauty without sacrificing convenience or safety.