Sometimes you just want a walk – beautiful scenery, some fresh air – without worrying about steep roads, driving, or complicated transfer. If you’re based in Funchal and don’t have a car (or don’t feel like driving), these two levadas are perfect: mostly flat, out-and-back, reachable by bus / Uber / Bolt, and flexible (you can go as far or as little as you like). Just remember: as with any levada, there can be steep drops, narrow paths, or tunnels: stay on the trail, watch your footing, and turn back when you’re uncomfortable.
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Levada dos Tornos (Monte Area)
Why this one is great
- Lovely views over Funchal, especially starting in Monte
- Nature green‑escape so close to the city
- Tea houses along the way: nice places to rest, enjoy a drink, then head back when you feel like it
How it works / starting points
- One option is to start in Monte (at the cable car station). Follow the trail by the LocalShop Cafe and walk toward Curral dos Romeiros. There will be a little bit of elevation following the old donkey trail up to Curral dos Romeiros. Once you reach the top, follow the Levada signs to get on the trail.
- Alternatively, begin more directly at Curral dos Romeiros and then join the levada from there.
Getting there without a car
- By public bus or cable car from Funchal up to Monte, then a short walk to the trailhead. Or Uber / Bolt / taxi: roughly €7‑12 from central Funchal depending on traffic.
- If by car, there’s free parking near the cable car in Monte (but roads up can be steep and narrow here).
Trail details & what to expect
- Length: depending on how far you walk. From Monte to the Hortensia Gardens Tea house and back is 7km – making it a nice easy hike for a couple of hours.
- Elevation gain starting from Monte: modest (~150 m) so reasonably gentle.
- Mostly flat, though there are some uphill bits from Monte, and more exposure / steeper sections closer toward Monte or at certain junctions. A few times, you’ll have to cross the road.
- Weather: Even though sunny in Funchal, Monte is more often in the clouds. Check the webcams before you go up.
Levada dos Piornais (Lido / Praia Formosa)
Why this one is great
- Less touristy, more “local” feel. Passing through houses, banana plantations, out toward rural parts, with good views of the valley as you move away from the city.
- Flexible: you can do small sections or go further depending on how adventurous you feel.
Where to start & what to see
- My favourite start is near Casa da Levada (cute tapas / food / poncha there), though it’s closed Sundays.
- Early part: residential areas, gardens, banana plantations; then moving into more rural / valley‑side views.
Getting there without a car
- Bus from Funchal with multiple bus stops nearby, but also Uber / Bolt / taxi works well if you prefer convenience.
- There is street parking if you have a car and want to drive – it’s a short and easy drive from Funchal.
Trail details & what to expect
- Distances vary depending how far you go. Some parts might be just 20‑30 mins walking, others longer if going further out toward the valley.
- Terrain: narrow concrete path alongside or above the levada, sometimes with ledges or narrow parts; not all parts have protective barriers. Occasional tunnels once you get out of the city.
- A few times, you’ll have to cross the road. Follow the levada signs and download maps beforehand to continue the trail.
My Experience & Tips
I’ve done both walks, so here are some personal reflections:
- For Levada dos Tornos, starting at Monte is lovely because you already have views from up high, plus the walk is peaceful. The tea houses are a highlight: stopping for a slice of cake and a drink makes the walk feel more like a relaxing outing. The path is great for beginners!
- With Levada dos Piornais, I loved how it starts in town so you almost ease into nature. At first it feels almost suburban, then gradually more wild. The banana plantations are charming, and the valley views toward Câmara de Lobos are very rewarding. But you do have to watch your step in narrow or missing-cover bits, especially if you go further.
Some general tips for hiking:
- Wear good shoes with grip.
- Bring water and maybe a snack, especially if you plan to go further out.
- Check the weather forecast, rain can make paths slippery.
If you’re into hikes, I also offer guided hiking tours around Madeira! Learn more here: Guided hikes.
