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Madeira Island is a paradise for hikers, and the west side of the island is no exception. Besides the good weather and the great beaches, with its stunning landscapes, lush forests, and rugged coastline, the west side offers some of the most breathtaking walks on the island.
Here are the top hikes recommended by Villa Amore Accommodation:
PR6 – 25 Fontes
The 25 Fontes walk is a must-do for nature lovers. The 9km trail takes you through a UNESCO World Heritage, the Laurisilva Forest. The trail winds through lush vegetation, past waterfalls, and along the irrigation channel. The highlight of the walk is the 25 Fontes waterfall, which the waterfalls gushing towards a magnificent lagoon. Be enchanted by the landscapes and the surroundings, there are those who dive into the icy waters!
PR6.2 – Levada do Alecrim
This spectacular hike it’s a short path, 6.8km accessible to anyone, where it is possible to enjoy fantastic views over Rabaçal. The walk starts at the Rabaçal parking area and takes you through a stunning forest of laurel and eucalyptus trees. Take the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful lagoons and waterfalls that appear along the way. At the end you’ll find incredible waterfall, with cascades down into a crystal-clear pool where you can even swim
PR14 – Levada dos Cedros
The Levada dos Cedros is a 10.8km trail that takes you through some of the island’s most beautiful forests. It starts in Fanal and continues through Laurissilva forest. The walk is relatively flat and easy, and you’ll encounter some of the following indigenous species: Madeira laurels, lily-of-the-valley trees, Canary laurels, Indian bays, Madeira whortleberry and eucalyptus. Along the hike you’ll find waterfalls that form a lagoon of pure and crystal clear water.
PR19 – Caminho Real Paúl do Mar
The Caminho Real is a pleaseant short walk downhill, between terraced farm fields from Prazeres to Paúl do Mar. Before starting the hike you can visit Quinta Pedagógica dos Prazeres an educational farm, tea house and with some animals. The 1.8km trail takes you to stunning views of Jardim do Mar and Paúl do Mar, through past vineyards, and rugged terrain. The highlight of the walk is the village of Paul do Mar, where you can find Villa Amore and relax on the beach.
PR20 – Vereda do Jardim do Mar
This short hike invites you to take a calm walk, with time to enjoy the ocean views. The trail of 1.9 km, takes about an hour and links Prazeres and Jardim do Mar. It was formerly one of the few access to the coast the population had available. This route offers magnificents views over Jardim do Mar and Paúl do Mar, and off course the ocean. At the end of the route is it possible to visit the old Water Mill recently restored that once served the town and surroundings
An incredible view point is Garganta Funda. It’s a 1.2km short walk to the beautiful waterfall, that offers stunning views, lush green with wildflowers. At the end you’ll find the Garganta Funda waterfall, which cascades down a steep cliff face.
The west side of Madeira Island’s offers some of the most spectacular walks on the island. So, put on your walking shoes, pack your camera, and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Madeira Island.
