Levada dos Prazeres – Ponta do Pargo

This gentle walk begins in Prazeres in the southwest of the island and follows a peaceful levada path toward Ponta do Pargo. The trail moves through quiet rural landscapes where cultivated terraces, small houses and local farms reflect traditional Madeiran life. Early on, the route offers beautiful views over the fishing village of Paul do Mar. As the walk continues, the fertile land displays a rich variety of crops including potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans and fruit trees such as fig, papaya, apple and lemon that thrive in the mild climate.

Further along, the scenery shifts to denser vegetation where tall pines and eucalyptus mark reforested areas. In the wetter sections of the levada, you can spot native species belonging to the Laurissilva Forest including Canarian laurels and endemic laurels. Throughout the journey the landscape remains framed by the mountains to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south, creating a striking contrast of deep green and blue. This relaxed route remains enjoyable year round thanks to its low altitude and gentle terrain.