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Levada Ribeiro Frio – Portela

Levada Ribeiro Frio – Portela

4.8(5 reviews)
8 hour(s)
english
Funchal, Portugal

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Walk through the UNESCO Laurissilva Forest

Scenic views over Faial, Porto da Cruz and Penha d’Águia

Historic levada dating back to the early nineteenth century

Native and endemic plant species along the trail

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$ 56.65

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Historic Levada Walk Reveals the Natural Treasures of Madeira’s Laurissilva Forest


A scenic guided walk through Ribeiro Frio follows one of Madeira’s oldest and most celebrated levadas, offering visitors an immersive journey into the island’s UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest. Beginning along a historic irrigation channel dating back to the early nineteenth century, the route meanders through peaceful woodlands where centuries-old laurel trees and native vegetation create a tranquil natural setting.


As the trail unfolds, walkers encounter a remarkable display of Madeira’s endemic flora, including vibrant wildflowers and rare plant species that reflect the island’s unique botanical heritage. Along the way, sweeping views open across the fertile valley of Ribeiro Frio, where the agricultural landscapes of Faial and Porto da Cruz stretch beneath the imposing silhouette of the Penha d’Águia rock formation.


The levada continues through gentle descents and short tunnels before reaching the Lamaceiros area and eventually the scenic viewpoint of Portela. From this elevated vantage point, visitors are rewarded with expansive panoramas that extend from the rugged mountains to the Atlantic coastline, showcasing the dramatic diversity of Madeira’s landscapes.


Beyond its scenic appeal, the trail is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Native bird species, including the lively chaffinch, the tiny Madeira firecrest, and the elusive short-toed pigeon, can often be observed among the forest canopy. Blending history, biodiversity, and spectacular scenery, the walk offers an unforgettable exploration of one of Madeira’s most treasured natural environments.

What's Included
  • Experienced mountain or levada guide
  • Guided walk along the Levada Ribeiro Frio to Portela
  • Explanation of flora, fauna and levada history
  • Transportation to and from the starting and ending points
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities

Comfortable walking shoes

Weather appropriate clothing or jacket or sweater

Bottle of water

Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat

Snacks

Camera

  • Travelers with Limited mobility impairments
  • Children under 18 years
  • Adventure seekers
  • Nature and wildlife lovers
  • Couples
  • Groups of friends
  • Seniors and mature travelers
  • Photography lovers

Participants must be at least 18 years old

Public transportation nearby

Wheelchair not accessible

Operated by a multilingual guide

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Activity Provider: Madeira Happy Tours

Customer Reviews

Explore More Levada Ribeiro Frio – Portela
Day In a City

Explore More Levada Ribeiro Frio – Portela

Discover the wonders of Funchal, Portugal with this unforgettable experience. This enchanting walk begins in Ribeiro Frio and follows one of Madeira’s oldest and most celebrated levadas, travelling through the lush Laurissilva Forest at mid altitude. The trail gently winds along the historic irrigation channel first contracted in the early nineteenth century, offering a serene journey through ancient greenery and peaceful woodland corridors. As you walk, the native flora becomes a living showcase of Madeira’s botanical heritage, with laurel trees, lilies of the valley, mahogany of Madeira and vibrant endemic species such as the pride of Madeira and the Madeiran orchid creating a colourful and ever changing landscape. The route also reveals the valley of Ribeiro Frio, where traditional agricultural fields of Faial and Porto da Cruz form a striking patchwork, all under the watchful presence of the towering Penha d’Águia rock formation. Highlights of your tour include: Walk through the UNESCO Laurissilva ForestScenic views over Faial, Porto da Cruz and Penha d’ÁguiaHistoric levada dating back to the early nineteenth centuryNative and endemic plant species along the trail. This enchanting walk begins in Ribeiro Frio and follows one of Madeira’s oldest and most celebrated levadas, travelling through the lush Laurissilva Forest at mid altitude. The trail gently winds along the historic irrigation channel first contracted in the early nineteenth century, offering a seren. This tour includes: Experienced mountain or levada guideGuided walk along the Levada Ribeiro Frio to PortelaExplanation of flora, fauna and levada historyTransportation to and fro...