Discover the scenic beauty of Madeira on a 7 km hike along Levada da Serra do Faial, featuring lush landscapes and stunning sea views. Perfect for all skill levels, this accessible trail offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Discover the scenic beauty of Madeira on a 7 km hike along Levada da Serra do Faial, featuring lush landscapes and stunning sea views. Perfect for all skill levels, this accessible trail offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Book with MB Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by MB Tours · Funchal, Madeira
Nestled just 20 minutes from the heart of the capital, Levada da Serra do Faial offers a scenic escape into Madeira's lush landscapes. This accessible 7-kilometer trail follows the historic levada irrigation channels, providing a gentle yet rewarding hike through vibrant flora and sweeping sea vistas. The trail’s moderate terrain is perfect for those seeking a serene outdoor experience without strenuous climbs, making it an ideal destination for families, casual hikers, or seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.
As you traverse this well-maintained path, you'll be treated to views of cascading waterfalls, terraced fields, and colorful wildflowers that bloom in various seasons. The lush greenery of the Laurisilva forest surrounds you, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. In spring, vibrant blossom and fresh foliage invigorate the landscape, while summer brings warm breezes and clear skies. Autumn colors paint the scenery with shades of orange and gold, and winter's softer light offers a tranquil atmosphere.
This trip highlights Madeira’s unique geology, with volcanic origins shaping the terrain and lush plant life thriving in the microclimates. An experienced local guide from MB Tours ensures your safety and shares insights about the region’s natural and cultural history, enhancing the journey. Whether you're after picture-perfect views, a peaceful walk, or just some time in nature, Levada da Serra do Faial provides a perfect blend of scenic beauty and accessible adventure, right on the island's doorstep.
In addition to its stunning vistas, the area offers hidden gems like its small, historic watermills and secluded viewpoints. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including canaries and lizards that inhabit the greenery. The trail is well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels, with manageable elevation gain and gentle slopes. It's a memorable walking experience that immerses you in Madeira’s rich natural tapestry, perfect for capturing landscape photos or simply enjoying a quiet moment outdoors. Join MB Tours for a scenic and enriching trek through this remarkable corner of Madeira.
moderate.
2–3 hours.
Good general fitness; suitable for most ages with some walking experience
Yes, the trail is easy to moderate, making it suitable for children and families with supervision.
Pets are welcome but should be kept on a leash and under supervision at all times.
Yes, MB Tours offers guided hikes that include insights into Madeira's natural and cultural landscape.
Yes, it’s open year-round, but weather conditions may vary, so plan accordingly.
Common sightings include Madeira blue chaffinches, lizards, and occasionally tiny endemic reptiles.
Yes, there is parking available near the trailhead for visitors.
The levada system was developed in the 19th century for irrigation, shaping Madeira's agriculture and landscape.
The trail’s maintenance supports local ecology, and visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve its natural beauty.
MB Tours is a Madeira-based tour operator that offers a comprehensive selection of guided day trips, levada walks, vereda hikes, coastal excursions, island ferry transfers and cultural evenings. The business lists a wide variety of experiences by name, including Levada - Prazeres - Ponta do Pargo, Levada - Rabaçal, Levada - Queimadas/Caldeirão Verde and Vereda - Pico do Arieiro - Pico Ruivo, which focus on the island’s signature irrigation-path treks and scenic walking routes. MB Tours also operates viewpoint and sightseeing excursions such as Pico dos Barcelos/Eira do Serrado/Cristo Rei and coastal journeys to Porto Moniz and the west coast, offering panoramic views of Funchal, Curral das Freiras and Atlantic lookouts. The operator provides scheduled ferry transfers to Porto Santo on the vessel Lobo Marinho (noted departure at 08:00 with arrival around 10:30 in the provided schedule) and manages round-trip day visits that connect with return services to Funchal. Transfer services include airport-to-accommodation options between Funchal Airport and destinations listed in their offerings, such as Santo da Serra, Machico, Ponta do Sol, Monte, Ribeira Brava, Porto Moniz and other locations. Cultural programming includes the Noite Típica evening with a traditional Espetada dinner, a folklore group performance and nighttime views over Funchal. All descriptions are based directly on the supplied trip names and summaries, giving travelers clear, factual choices between levada treks, viewpoint tours, coastal excursions, Porto Santo ferry options and practical transfer services across Madeira.
Book with MB Tours