Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Levada Walk

Tracing the Routes of Madeira’s Agricultural History Follow Madeira’s complex irrigation system by foot, tracing hillsides and connecting with a rich agricultural past. Known as the “Garden Island” for its rich agriculture, terraced hills and beautiful flowers, Madeira is an enchanting Atlantic paradise and a horticulturalist’s dream. The island’s ubiquitous irrigation aqueducts, or levadas, were dug into the steep hillsides in the 1800s so that early farmers could make use of every patch of land and channel mountain waters to their fields. Today, footpaths follow some of the 1,350 miles of aqueducts, giving you a fascinating way to explore. With your guide, you will drive to Vale do Paraíso, where your walk begins gently for about a half hour on level trails to Camacha. After refreshments here, continue to Rochão, a magnificent stroll along a century-old levada that passes cultivated terraces, stunning gardens and breathtaking vistas. This excursion requires strenuous walking for two hours, covering 3½ miles. * Demanding - Physically challenging activities, including extensive walks, hiking, riding, water sports, and high altitude activities. Activities by foot may contain difficu