Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk

This experience made our article of Our 15 Favorite Funchal Walking Tours.

Discover Madeira’s Forests on the Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk

If you’re after a truly scenic, nature-oriented walk in Madeira, the Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk is a standout. Priced at $50 per person, this roughly 4- to 5-hour trek takes you from the expansive Paul da Serra plateau down into the mysterious Fanal Forest, with plenty of spectacular viewpoints along the way. Led by knowledgeable guides, the route offers an up-close look at Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, a verdant, ancient woodland that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

What we love most about this walk is the chance to wander through a pristine laurel forest—a rare natural gem preserved outside of the gray city streets—and to enjoy breathtaking vistas over the Ribeira da Janela valley and the scenic Chão da Ribeira. Plus, the option to book with flexibility, paying later, makes it easier to plan. That said, the walk’s moderate difficulty and the lack of food options along the route are worth noting for those with specific needs.

This experience is best suited for active travelers with a good level of fitness who appreciate natural landscapes and scenic viewpoints. If you’re prepared for some uphill walking and want a more intimate, less touristy way to see Madeira’s lush forests, this tour offers a rewarding day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Madeira scenery: Walk through a UNESCO forest with ancient trees and lush greenery.
• Stunning viewpoints: Enjoy vistas over Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira.
• Expert guides: Learn about local flora and the landscape from knowledgeable guides.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Price for value: At $50, it offers an accessible way to explore Madeira’s natural beauty.
• Challenging terrain: The walk requires a moderate fitness level and comfortable shoes.

A Detailed Look at the Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk

Starting Point: Paul da Serra Plateau

Your journey begins atop the Paul da Serra, one of Madeira’s largest and highest plateaus. It’s a vast, open space with sweeping views over the island’s rugged landscape. We loved the way the cool mountain air mingled with the anticipation of lush forests below. This starting point sets the tone—an expansive, almost otherworldly landscape that quickly transitions into the lush greenery of the Laurissilva.

The Walk into the Forest

From here, the route gently descends into the Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. This ancient woodland is a true sanctuary of centuries-old Tis (Ocotea foetens) and other native trees, many of which are visibly venerable and towering. As we moved along the levada (irrigation channel), we appreciated how the landscape felt untouched—an authentic glimpse into Madeira’s original woodland cover.

Several reviewers noted the atmospheric mistiness that can roll in, adding a mystical quality to the forest. Nicole, one of the recent guests, commented, “It was suitably misty to make the forest atmospheric,” which we found to be a charming feature rather than a drawback. The forest feels alive, whispering stories of old trees and centuries of growth.

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Viewpoints and Landmarks

One of the highlights of the walk is the collection of spectacular viewpoints along the way. Travelers can expect to see panoramic views over Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira, both offering a sense of the scale and grandeur of Madeira’s rugged terrain. These spots are perfect for photos and catching your breath while soaking in the natural beauty.

GetYourGuide reviews highlight the importance of guides in enriching this experience: “Sara was very helpful with questions and explained everything thoroughly,” one reviewer said, emphasizing the value of a knowledgeable guide.

The Fanal Forest and Final Stop

The walk concludes in the Fanal Forest, a truly atmospheric area cloaked in moss and lichen, with ancient trees that feel like they belong in a fairy tale. The pines and laurels here are some of the oldest on the island, and the quiet majesty of the setting makes it a worthwhile endpoint. When the weather cooperates, the sunny clearing at Fanal is stunning, though many reviews mention encountering fog or mist, which adds to the mysterious ambiance.

Practical Details and Considerations

This is a guided walk, so your guide will share insights about the flora, landscape, and local history. The tour is priced at $50, including all taxes and fuel surcharges, which makes it a good value for a full day immersed in nature. However, lunch isn’t included, so be sure to bring snacks or a packed meal, especially since no food is available along the route.

The tour is conducted in several languages—Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese—making it accessible to most visitors. Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

What the Reviews Say

Guest experiences highlight both the strengths and some challenges of the tour. Many praise the friendly guides and the incredible scenery—“Our guide was very friendly, explained everything thoroughly, and was very helpful,” said one reviewer. People also mention the beauty of the forest, with some noting that fog and weather sometimes limit views but add atmospheric charm.

However, a few guests found the route somewhat disappointing, citing limited mountain views or the ease of the walk. One reviewer shared, “Half of the hike is covered, and the views are not as spectacular as expected,” while others appreciated the patience and safety instructions of guides like Sarah, who “deserve credit for her patience and flora knowledge.”

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This walk is ideal for nature lovers, walkers comfortable with moderate terrain, and those eager to see Madeira’s unique laurel forest. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking easy strolls or those with mobility issues, given the terrain’s moderate difficulty. The scenic viewpoints and peaceful forest make it perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $50, this guided levada walk offers a meaningful way to connect with Madeira’s most impressive natural landscape. You’ll appreciate the combination of stunning views, rich greenery, and expert guidance. It’s a chance to see a UNESCO heritage site in its full glory, with the added benefit of learning about the local flora and landscape from passionate guides.

While the weather can be unpredictable—fog or mist might obscure some views—the forest’s atmosphere becomes even more mystical. The walk’s moderate challenge ensures that most fit travelers can enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed, making it a good outdoor activity for a half-day adventure.

If you’re someone who values authentic natural experiences, loves exploring scenic viewpoints, and wants a well-organized tour with the flexibility of booking and cancellation, this Madeira levada walk should be at the top of your list.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The walk lasts about 4 to 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and viewpoints at a relaxed pace.

What is the price?
It costs $50 per person, which includes all taxes and fuel surcharges, making it a good value for a guided nature walk of this length.

Is food included?
No, food is not provided or available along the route. Travelers should bring their own snacks or packed lunch.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak multiple languages: Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this suitable for children or less-active travelers?
The walk requires a moderate level of fitness, so it’s best for active travelers comfortable with some uphill sections.

Are there any age restrictions?
Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but children should be able to handle about a half-day walk.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The terrain can be uneven, and weather conditions might include mist or rain, so dress accordingly.

Are there any scenic viewpoints?
Yes, along the route, you’ll encounter viewpoints over Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira, perfect for photos and taking in the landscape.

What is the best time of year to go?
While specific seasons aren’t mentioned, the weather can be misty or foggy, so spring or early summer might offer clearer days, but the forest atmosphere remains captivating year-round.

This Madeira levada walk offers a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, local flora, and authentic experience—perfect for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and dive into Madeira’s lush natural world.

You can check availability for your dates here: