The levadas are working water channels built from the fifteenth century onward to move rainfall from the wet north to the dry south. Their maintenance paths now form hundreds of kilometres of walking routes, and they reach places roads do not.
Which walks to choose
Levada do Caldeirao Verde is the classic, roughly 13 kilometres return with tunnels that require a torch. For high ground, the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo traverse is the best walk on the island and needs a head for exposure.
Practical points
- Several trails require a paid permit booked online in advance
- Cloud sits at 800 to 1200 metres often, so above it is frequently clear
- Torch, grip and a rain layer, in that order of usefulness
Funchal makes a practical base, though staying in Sao Vicente or Santana puts you closer to the northern walks.
