Levada do Alecrim – Rosemary Levada (Full Day Walk)

Madeira’s Levada do Alecrim: A Guided Full-Day Hike Through Scenic Beauty

If you’re aiming to see Madeira’s lush landscapes without the hassle of navigation, the Levada do Alecrim guided walk offers a perfect solution. For about $52 per person, you get a full day’s adventure, approximately 8 hours long, with air-conditioned transport to and from the start point. The tour takes you along the famed Rosemary Levada, a peaceful path that meanders through verdant forests, small waterfalls, and offers views of the Lagoa da Dª Beja lagoon.

What truly makes this experience stand out is the presence of a guide—meaning no need for maps or guesswork—and the chance to stop at key scenic spots like the 25 Fountains and Da Beja Lagoon. We particularly appreciate the small-group setting, capped at 14 travelers, which makes the trek more intimate and allows for better conversations and personalized attention.

On the flip side, one consideration is the vintage vehicle used for transportation, which some might find a bit less comfortable. Also, the walk can be quite challenging in parts, especially the descent toward Vento Waterfall, so good footwear and a bit of stamina are advised.

This tour suits those who love nature and aren’t shy about a bit of physical activity. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Madeira’s iconic levadas with the safety and insights of a guide, rather than going solo with a map. If you’re after authentic scenery, photo opportunities, and a manageable group size, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Walk along the historic Rosemary Levada with expert guidance, passing waterfalls and lagoons.
• Easy Access: Includes air-conditioned transport to the trailhead, saving you time and effort.
• Small Group: Limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture waterfalls, lush forests, and tranquil lagoons.
• Physical Challenge: Some parts, like the descent to Vento Waterfall, may be steep and require good shoes.
• Value: For around $52, you get a full-day guided hike that covers significant scenic spots with transport included.

A Deep Dive into the Levada do Alecrim Experience

Making your way along Madeira’s Levada do Alecrim is like walking through a living postcard. As you follow the gentle paths carved out alongside ancient irrigation channels, you’re treated to views that change with every turn—verdant forests, small waterfalls tumbling over rocks, and glimpses of the Dª Beja Lagoon shimmering in the distance.

The guide’s role is key here. Not only do they navigate the route, but they also enrich the walk with stories about the landscape and local flora. We loved the fact that the path is straightforward enough for most hikers, but the guide’s insights elevate the experience from a simple walk to an educational adventure.

The route itself is designed for a full day, giving plenty of time to stop, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and snap photos. The waterfalls are a particular highlight—small cascades that add a soothing soundtrack to your trek and perfect photo ops. This makes it a favorite for travelers who enjoy both scenery and the chance to gather memorable images.

Getting to the trailhead is hassle-free thanks to air-conditioned transportation. This is especially appreciated after a warm morning—no need to worry about public transit or having to drive yourself. You’ll meet at a central location in Funchal, and the ride will whisk you up into the mountains.

One review mentions that the vehicle used for transport shows signs of age, which can impact comfort. While this isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to vehicle comfort. The walk itself is described as pretty strenuous by some, especially the descent into Vento Waterfall, so sturdy shoes and layered clothing (for potentially cool mountain temperatures) are wise.

Who will love this tour? If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of light physical activity, beautiful scenery, and the company of a small group, this walk hits the spot. Photographers, nature lovers, and those curious about Madeira’s irrigation history will find plenty to admire.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your day begins early, with a 9:00 am pickup from the meeting point—Pelitrade Investimentos in Funchal—making it convenient for travelers staying in the city. The transport is air-conditioned, a welcome feature after the drive into Madeira’s hilly terrain.

Once at the trailhead, the guide leads you along the Levada do Alecrim, a historic irrigation channel that snakes through lush greenery. Expect to pass small waterfalls and streams, which you’ll hear gently babbling as you walk. This part of the trail is relatively easy but can be uneven, so shoes with good grip are essential.

Midway through, the route takes you to Lagoa da Dª Beja, a scenic lagoon that’s perfect for a quick break or some photo moments. The walk continues toward the 25 Fountains, a series of historic water sources that highlight Madeira’s clever system of water management.

Later, the trail descends into more rugged terrain, culminating in the Vento Waterfall, where the steep descent tests your stamina and balance. Here, some travelers describe the walk as “best (but) pretty heavy,” especially the downhill stretch. This part offers a real reward—close-up views of cascading water and lush surroundings.

The tour concludes back at the starting point after roughly eight hours, giving you ample time to reflect on the day’s sights and experiences.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, the scenery truly lives up to expectations. PangKuk_B called it a “very nice walk and stunning scenery,” emphasizing the visual appeal of waterfalls and natural landscapes. The quiet serenity of the levadas is perfect for photography or simply soaking in the peaceful environment.

One user shared that the walk can be quite heavy, particularly the descent, so packing well-fitting shoes and layers is important. Also, bringing a picnic and water is advisable since there’s no food included, and the day can be physically demanding.

The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere but also means you’ll want to be comfortable with occasional waiting for slower members or enjoying some quiet moments alone amid nature.

The guide’s attitude seems mixed in reviews—while some appreciate the knowledge shared, others note that the guide was distracted or not very engaging. This could impact the overall experience if you’re expecting a highly interactive guide. Still, the scenery and physical challenge make this a worthwhile outing for many.

Value and Booking Considerations

At just over $50, this guided walk offers excellent value considering the full day of scenery, transportation, and local insights. For travelers wanting to see Madeira’s lush levadas without the hassle of planning or navigation, it’s a straightforward option.

Booking in advance—about 9 days ahead on average—ensures you secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. Keep in mind, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, giving some flexibility if weather or other plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided full-day walk suits those who enjoy moderate physical activity, love natural beauty, and value small-group experiences. It’s perfect for hikers comfortable with uneven terrain and descents, and for travelers eager to learn about Madeira’s irrigation system and history.

If you’re looking for a relaxing stroll with minimal effort, this might be too challenging. Conversely, if you want a deep dive into Madeira’s scenery with a knowledgeable guide (and don’t mind the occasional rough ride or energetic descent), this tour will delight.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle picks you up and drops you off at the meeting point in Funchal.

What should I bring? Pack good walking shoes, a warm coat (for mountain temperatures), water, and a picnic if you want to snack along the route.

How long is the walk? The full tour lasts about 8 hours, covering a scenic route along the levada with several stops.

Are children or non-hikers suitable? The walk can be strenuous, especially the descent, so it’s best suited for reasonably fit travelers. Children should be prepared for a physically demanding day.

Is the guide attentive and informative? Reviews vary; some found the guide engaging and knowledgeable, while others thought he was distracted. Your experience might depend on the guide you get.

What’s the scenery like? Expect waterfalls, lush forests, small streams, and tranquil lagoons—perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and if the weather is poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Levada do Alecrim guided walk presents a wonderful opportunity to see Madeira’s most scenic landscapes without the stress of self-navigation. With stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, and tranquil lagoons, it offers an authentic taste of the island’s natural beauty. The small-group setting, combined with the convenience of transport, makes it especially appealing for travelers who want a manageable, intimate experience.

While the walk involves some physical effort and the vehicle might feel a bit vintage, these are minor considerations compared to the extraordinary scenery and the chance to learn about Madeira’s water management history from a local guide. It’s a fine choice for active travelers, photography buffs, and anyone eager to connect with nature on an authentic island trail.

If you want to experience Madeira’s most iconic levada scenery in a guided, easy-to-access way, this tour is well worth considering.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before you go, and prepare accordingly to enjoy the full beauty of Madeira’s landscapes.