Levada do Alecrim – Rosemary Levada (Full Day Walk)

Exploring Madeira’s Natural Beauty on the Levada do Alecrim

This guided full-day walk along Madeira’s renowned Levada do Alecrim offers a fantastic way to get up close and personal with the island’s lush landscapes. For around $52, you’ll spend approximately eight hours immersed in nature, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who ensures you don’t get lost in the maze of levadas. The experience includes transport to the starting point, scenic stops at spots like the 25 Fountains, and the chance to capture incredible photos of waterfalls and lagoons.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its balance of ease and adventure. You get the reassurance of a guide, avoiding the hassle of navigation, combined with plenty of opportunities for photography and appreciating Madeira’s diverse flora and fauna. Conversely, some reviews point out that the vehicle used for transport could be a bit newer, and that the walk can be quite demanding, especially the descent to the Vento waterfall. This tour suits active travelers who love scenic hikes and are eager to learn about the landscape from a local guide.

If you’re after a well-organized, small-group experience that reveals the island’s natural charm without the crowds, this walk is worth considering. It’s perfect for those eager to explore Madeira’s iconic levadas with a bit of walking and a lot of breathtaking scenery.

Key Points

• Guided route offers expert navigation and insights, removing the guesswork.
• Scenic photo spots include waterfalls, lagoons, and lush greenery.
• Convenient transportation with air-conditioned vehicles makes the start and return easy.
• Small group size (up to 14 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Preparedness is key: good walking shoes and warm clothing recommended.
• Tour duration of around 8 hours balances full exploration with a manageable day.

An In-Depth Look at the Levada do Alecrim Full-Day Walk

When considering this Madeira tour, what sets it apart is the combination of natural beauty, guided expertise, and logistical ease. Let’s break down what you can expect from start to finish, and how the experience stacks up based on actual traveler feedback.

The Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Pelitrade Investimentos in Funchal at 9:00 am. The inclusion of air-conditioned transport makes the journey to the levada a breeze, especially after a busy morning. Most travelers find the ride comfortable, although some reviews suggest the vehicle might show signs of age. Still, knowing your transport is sorted allows you to relax and focus on the views ahead.

The Scenic Walk Along Levada do Alecrim

The core of the tour is walking along the Levada do Alecrim, a route renowned for its lush scenery and small waterfalls. The trail passes through Lagoa da Dª Beja, a lagoon that provides a tranquil backdrop for photos. As you walk, you’ll be immersed in Madeira’s green landscapes, with the guide sharing insights about local plants and history—adding layers of context to the scenery.

Travelers have praised the stunning vistas, with PangKuk_B noting, “It was a very nice walk and stunning scenery.” They appreciated the variety of photo opportunities, including waterfalls and panoramic views, perfect for snapping memorable pictures.

Highlights and Photo Opportunities

One of the most appreciated aspects is the chance to capture small waterfalls and tranquil lagoons. The tour offers plenty of spots for pictures, so bring your camera or smartphone fully charged. The landscape’s diversity means you’ll see everything from dense greenery to open vistas—ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Challenging Aspects and Real Traveler Feedback

While most found the walk rewarding, some mention the difficulty level, especially during the descent toward the Vento waterfall. Carla_K describes the walk as “prachtige maar best zwaar” (beautiful but quite heavy), emphasizing the steep sections and the demanding nature of the terrain. The guide’s attitude also drew mixed reviews—though some appreciated the local insights, others felt the guide was distracted, spending a lot of time on their phone and not engaging with the group as much as hoped.

This highlights the importance of being prepared physically and mentally for a somewhat challenging hike, particularly if you want to get the most from that descent.

Refreshments and What’s Not Included

You’ll need to bring your own picnic and water, as food and drinks are not included. This allows flexibility in choosing what and when to eat, but it’s worth packing enough to stay energized during the longer stretches. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you time to relax or explore Funchal further.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This guided walk is well-suited for active travelers who appreciate nature and don’t mind a bit of a workout. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, small-group experience—which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. It’s also perfect if you’re keen on photography, as the landscape offers a wealth of picture-perfect moments.

However, if you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or have mobility issues, this might be a bit strenuous, especially the descent to the waterfall. Also, the vehicle’s age and the guide’s engagement level are factors worth considering.

Practical Tips for Your Levada Experience

• Wear sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or boots, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy.
• Bring a warm layer—mountain temperatures can be cooler, especially in the shade or early in the day.
• Pack a picnic and plenty of water to keep fueled throughout the walk.
• Remember to charge your camera or phone for all those scenic shots.
• Be prepared for some steep descents and ascents—a good level of fitness will make the walk more enjoyable.
• Join early in the day to avoid crowds and have more time to explore afterwards.
• Expect around 8 hours of walking and sightseeing; plan your day accordingly.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Levada do Alecrim walk offers a solid combination of stunning scenery, guided expertise, and manageable logistics. For travelers who want to experience Madeira’s lush landscape without the hassle of planning, this tour delivers authentic views combined with convenience. The small-group format makes for a more intimate connection with the landscape and fellow travelers, creating a memorable day amid nature’s best.

It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy challenging hikes, photography buffs eager to capture waterfalls and lagoons, or anyone looking for a guided nature escape. However, if you prefer a more relaxed stroll or have difficulty with steep terrain, this might be less suitable.

Overall, at around $52, the tour offers a worthwhile value for the immersive experience and scenic highlights—especially if you’re ready for a full day of walking and wonder.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation to and from the meeting point, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

What should I wear and bring?
Sturdy walking shoes, warm clothing, and a waterproof jacket are recommended. Pack a picnic, plenty of water, and your camera for the best experience.

How long is the walk?
The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, including walking, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
While most active travelers will enjoy it, the walk’s some challenging sections—particularly the descent to the waterfall—so a good fitness level is advised.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you need to bring your own food and water, as these are not provided.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is there a recommended age or group?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical demands suggest it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of walking and some strenuous sections.

Choosing the Levada do Alecrim guided walk means enjoying Madeira’s stunning landscapes, with the reassurance of a guide and the comfort of a small group. It’s a memorable way to see the island’s natural beauty, especially if you’re prepared for a rewarding challenge.