Trail to Wind Lagoon Explore Levada do Alecrim

Imagine walking along a gentle levada through lush forests and open mountain terrain, with occasional glimpses of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear rock pools. Now, add in the thrill of a swim in mountain waters and the visual drama of dramatic cliffs surrounding Wind Lagoon. That’s exactly what makes the Trail to Wind Lagoon with Levada do Alecrim stand out as a memorable experience in Madeira.

This guided tour, offered at $61 per person, lasts around 4 hours and is perfect for those seeking a taste of Madeira’s unspoiled natural beauty without the intensity of longer hikes. Led by local guides whose enthusiasm is matched only by their knowledge, you’ll explore one of the island’s most scenic routes. We particularly appreciated how the tour combines easy-to-follow paths with moments of awe-inspiring scenery, making it accessible yet deeply satisfying.

That said, it’s not ideal for everyone—those with mobility issues or pregnant visitors might find the terrain challenging, and bringing swimsuits is optional but highly recommended if you want to take advantage of the mountain waters. Overall, if you’re a lover of nature, photography, or simply want a peaceful escape, this experience offers a genuine slice of Madeira’s wild west.

Key Points

• Scenic Levada Walk: Follow a peaceful, well-maintained trail through lush forests and open mountain landscapes.
• Natural Wonders: Encounter waterfalls, crystal pools, and the serene Wind Lagoon, all shaped by volcanic forces.
• Refreshing Swim: Enjoy a dip in mountain waters—bring your swimsuit for the best experience.
• Expert Guidance: Tours led by local guides who bring knowledge, safety, and enthusiasm.
• Balanced Experience: Suitable for most, with some considerations for those with mobility or health concerns.
• Value for Money: At $61, it offers an accessible way to explore Madeira’s wild west without long or strenuous hikes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Levada do Alecrim: A Closer Look

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Levada do Alecrim is one of Madeira’s most captivating levada routes, offering a diverse mix of terrain, views, and natural features. The walk begins with a gentle stroll along a flat irrigation channel, which immediately sets a relaxed tone. As you follow the levada, the landscape gradually shifts from lush, dense forest to open slopes that reveal stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The guides do a good job of pointing out volcanic features and explaining how the landscape has been shaped over centuries. We loved the way the trail transitions from shaded, cool forest to sun-drenched open areas, showing Madeira’s range of microclimates and ecosystems.

Waterfalls and Rock Pools

One of the tour highlights is the chance to see and enjoy crystal-clear rock pools and cascading waterfalls. Several reviewers noted how these pools offered a tempting opportunity to cool off, especially in summer. While swimming isn’t mandatory, the opportunity to take a quick dip makes the hike more memorable.

A visitor mentioned, “The waterfalls are breathtaking, and the pools are perfect for a quick splash after a steady walk.” Be sure to bring your swimwear if you want to cool down, but even if you don’t, the sight of water tumbling down rocks is a visual treat.

The Wind Lagoon

The Wind Lagoon marks the endpoint of this trek. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, this tranquil body of water offers a perfect resting spot. The calm waters contrast wonderfully with the rugged terrain around it, creating a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere. Many visitors said the lagoon’s serenity was a highlight, feeling like discovering a private hidden gem.

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The Experience of the Guide

Local guides, like Maria and João, are praised for their friendly approach, safety awareness, and wealth of local knowledge. They do well to keep the group moving at a comfortable pace, making sure everyone can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. They also provide interesting insights into Madeira’s geology, flora, and fauna, enriching the walk with stories and facts.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Funchal or nearby. The price of $61 is reasonable considering the guided nature of the tour, the transportation, and the access to such a scenic area. Compared to longer or more strenuous hikes, this offers excellent value, especially for travelers with limited time but a desire to see Madeira’s natural beauty.

Potential Drawbacks

While the terrain is mostly gentle, some sections involve uneven paths or slopes, which might challenge those with mobility issues. The tour also advises bringing essentials like comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera. A small note: the tour does not include meals or drinks, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts looking for a manageable but visually stunning walk. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Madeira’s landscape up close without committing to a full-day hike or strenuous activity. Families with older children, hikers with moderate fitness, and those interested in landscape photography will find this tour particularly rewarding.

However, it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility challenges, or heart conditions. Carrying swimsuits is optional but recommended if you want to take advantage of the mountain pools—a refreshing reward after your walk.

Final Thoughts

The Trail to Wind Lagoon via Levada do Alecrim offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, gentle trekking, and unique natural features. Given the reasonable price, guided expertise, and the chance to enjoy Madeira’s lush wilderness, this tour provides good value for those wanting an authentic, memorable experience.

The combination of lush forests, waterfalls, and the tranquil lagoon makes for a varied and visually stunning adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a peaceful, nature-focused outing that is accessible yet deeply satisfying. The opportunity to cool off in mountain waters makes it stand out from more typical levada walks.

In short, this tour is a wonderful choice for those who want to see the wild side of Madeira without a full-day commitment or strenuous effort. It delivers beautiful views, a sense of discovery, and a genuinely refreshing experience—an authentic taste of Madeira’s rugged beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to join without extra planning.

How long does the hike last? The guided walk lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Do I need special gear? Comfortable shoes are recommended, and bringing a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera will help you get the most out of the experience.

Can I swim in the Wind Lagoon? Yes, if you bring swimwear, you can take a refreshing dip in the mountain waters, which many visitors find rewarding.

Is the walk suitable for children? The trail is gentle but involves uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for children who are comfortable walking on natural paths.

What languages are available? The tour is offered in English, French, German, and Portuguese.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended; you can reserve and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues? No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility impairments, or heart issues.

To sum it up, if you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and memorable walk that showcases Madeira’s rugged beauty, the Trail to Wind Lagoon is a fantastic choice. It balances ease with striking natural sights, making it perfect for a diverse range of travelers looking to connect with Madeira’s wild west.

You can check availability for your dates here: