Ribeiro Frio – Portela

If you’re visiting Madeira and love a good walk that combines nature, history, and breathtaking landscapes, the Ribeiro Frio to Portela tour might be just what you’re after. Priced at about $54.41 per person, this roughly seven-hour excursion offers a chance to explore one of the island’s most renowned levadas—the narrow irrigation channels that zigzag through Madeira’s rugged terrain. The tour departs from Funchal at 8:00 am, with pickup included, making it convenient for travelers staying in the capital.

What makes this walk appealing? First, we love the opportunity to stroll along a levada that gently carries water through some of Madeira’s most pristine forests—notably the Filoresta Laurissilva do Til and Vinhático. These areas are well-preserved and are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, so you’re walking in the footsteps of Madeira’s natural heritage. Second, the views over the Penha d’Água—a dramatic landscape spot—are consistently praised, offering photo-worthy vistas that stick in your memory.

A couple of considerations are worth noting. The main route can be affected by weather or natural events, such as landslides, which in the past have led to partial route closures or detours—meaning the trail may sometimes be less scenic or less accessible than usual. Plus, this tour is labeled suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some parts involve narrow or uneven paths, and a little bit of agility is useful.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or those eager to see Madeira’s endemic forests and lush valleys. If you enjoy a manageable walk with stunning scenery and don’t mind paying a small extra fee for waste management starting in 2025, it’s an experience that offers good value and authentic connection to the island’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery along the levada and fantastic views over valleys and Penha d’Água.
• Well-preserved forests, including UNESCO-listed Laurissilva, provide a lush, immersive experience.
• Accessible for moderate fitness levels, but some narrow or uneven paths require caution.
• Includes transportation and pickup, simplifying logistics on a busy island.
• Partially affected by natural events, so some routes may be closed or less scenic when landslides occur.
• Limited group size (max 8 travelers), offering a more intimate experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Ribeiro Frio to Portela Levadas

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your accommodation or designated meeting point at the CR7 Museum in Funchal. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle takes you through Madeira’s lush landscape, heading towards the starting point of the walk near Ribeiro Frio—an area famous for its trout fishing and botanical gardens.

Once at Ribeiro Frio, you’ll begin your walk along the levada, a centuries-old irrigation channel that has been meticulously maintained. The walk itself is described as moderately easy, with about 4 hours of walking on a trail that is generally flat but sometimes narrow, especially when passing through the forest. One of the highlights is the endless shades of green, with dense endemic vegetation lining the channel and occasional views into the valleys below.

As you follow the levada, you’ll pass by small waterfalls and water drops, with some reviewer comments noting the beauty of the series of small waterfalls along the route. The trail takes you through different sections of the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a chance to learn about Madeira’s unique flora.

The Scenic Highlights

The views over Penha d’Água are consistently praised. This vantage point provides a sweeping look over the coast and the lush valleys, giving you a sense of the island’s rugged beauty. One reviewer mentioned a “beautiful long levada ending near Porto da Cruz,” with waterfalls and greenery along the route, and pointed out the charm of small tunnels near the end of the walk—a feature that adds a little adventure to the scenic experience.

The Natural and Cultural Significance

Walking along the levada is more than just a hike; it’s a journey into Madeira’s agricultural history and natural environment. These channels were built centuries ago to irrigate the terraced fields, and today, they serve as a unique way for visitors to connect with Madeira’s ecological and cultural landscape.

Handling the Natural Challenges

One of the reviews highlighted the disappointment when part of the levada was closed due to a landslide, which altered the original route into a more forested, less scenic path. This is an important consideration—natural events can occasionally limit access or change the experience. Still, even on less scenic sections, the dense forest and occasional waterfalls make it worthwhile.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour includes pickup from Funchal and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes logistics simple and comfortable. The group is limited to 8 travelers, giving a more personal experience, and the overall duration is about 7 hours, including travel and breaks.

The tour starts at 8:00 am and ends back at the meeting point. It’s important to note that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to eat afterward in Funchal.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Starting January 1, 2025, there will be a 3 euro per person tax for all official hiking routes in Madeira, meant to fund trail maintenance and waste collection. This fee is not included in the ticket price and will need to be paid on the day of the hike.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

What do previous travelers say? One reviewer called the walk “not very strenuous”, but noted that narrow paths require a bit of agility and comfort with heights. Another appreciated the quiet, less crowded sections, especially when the trail was not busy, offering a peaceful escape into the forest.

A visitor also highlighted that early mornings are best to avoid crowds at viewpoints, a tip worth considering if you want to capture the views without fellow hikers blocking your shot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts looking to explore Madeira’s endemic flora and lush valleys without strenuous hiking. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic, manageable walks with plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet reflection. If you’re interested in ecology or botanical environments, this walk offers a window into the island’s unique ecosystems.

However, it’s not the best choice if you prefer high-altitude, challenging hikes, or if you’re worried about narrow paths, tunnels, or occasional route closures due to weather events.

The Sum Up

The Ribeiro Frio to Portela levada walk offers a balanced blend of easy accessibility and stunning scenery. It’s a genuine way to experience Madeira’s endemic forests and spectacular views, making it well worth the modest price. The small group size, included transportation, and the chance to walk alongside a historic irrigation channel make it a practical, authentic outing.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want to see Madeira’s lush greenery up close and enjoy a peaceful, scenic walk that avoids the crowds of busier attractions. While natural events can sometimes impact the experience, most visitors find the breathtaking views and verdant landscape more than compensate.

If you’re after a gentle hike through Madeira’s famous forests, with the bonus of panoramic vistas and a touch of history, this levada walk will surely deliver a memorable day.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and pickup from Funchal. Lunch is not included.

How long is the walk?
The walking portion lasts about 4 hours, with the total tour duration being approximately 7 hours.

Is this hike suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The trail involves narrow paths and uneven terrain, so caution is advised.

Can I expect to see waterfalls?
Yes, along the levada, you’ll pass by small waterfalls and water drops, adding to the scenic charm.

What about route closures or natural disruptions?
In the past, landslides have caused part of the route to be inaccessible, leading to detours or less scenic sections. Always check local conditions before booking.

Do I need to pay any extra fees?
Starting in 2025, there will be a 3 euro per person tax for trail maintenance, payable on the day of the walk.

What is the best time to do this tour?
Early morning is recommended to beat the crowds at viewpoints and enjoy more peaceful surroundings.

Is the tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The stunning vistas, waterfalls, and lush greenery provide plenty of photo opportunities.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re craving an authentic, scenic adventure on Madeira that combines natural beauty with manageable walking, the Ribeiro Frio to Portela levada walk offers a terrific opportunity to connect with the island’s green heart.