EASY LEVADA BIKING TOUR

If you’re looking for a way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty without the intensity of a strenuous hike or a tough mountain bike ride, the Easy Levada Biking Tour might just be what you need. Promising a relaxed 4.5-hour journey along some of the island’s most iconic water channels and lush forests, this guided bike experience offers a gentle introduction to Madeira’s landscapes, wildlife, and local culture. It’s designed for leisure cyclists and families, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.

What immediately caught my attention was the combination of stunning ocean views and the opportunity to see the UNESCO-listed laurel forest up close. Plus, the chance to encounter friendly farm animals and enjoy local snacks adds a charming, down-to-earth touch. On the flip side, this tour requires a certain level of fitness — so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a very passive experience or traveling with very young children.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic ride and enjoy small-group atmospheres. If you’re after adrenaline or challenging terrains, this isn’t it. But if you’re happy to go slow, soak in the views, and have a friendly guide by your side, this could be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

Key Points

• Leisurely pace perfect for families and relaxed cyclists
• Stunning scenery including ocean vistas and laurel forests
• Wildlife encounters with chickens, cats, sheep, goats, and friendly dogs
• Inclusive price covering bike, safety gear, guide, and photos
• Local atmosphere with quaint stops for coffee, soda, or homemade cake
• Moderate fitness needed — not for those with mobility issues or very young children

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Easy Levada Biking Tour

When considering a biking adventure on Madeira, you want something that balances scenic beauty with comfort and ease. The EASY LEVADA BIKING TOUR hits that sweet spot, offering a laid-back ride through some of the island’s most picturesque landscapes. We’ve looked into the experience based on reviews, the tour details, and what it offers to travelers like you, so let’s unpack what makes this tour worth considering—or not.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $80 per person, you get a full-suspension Radon Slide bicycle, which is a solid choice for comfort and control on uneven paths. The tour includes helmet and protective gear, so safety is taken seriously—especially important when cycling on natural terrain. The shuttle service from select locations (Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz, Machico) makes logistics straightforward and stress-free.

A big plus is the presence of a certified guide who not only leads the group but also takes free photos during the ride. This means you can stay focused on the scenery and your companions without worrying about snapping pictures yourself. The tour typically lasts around 4.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on the day, so you can choose a slot that fits your schedule.

The Route and Highlights

The route follows the Levada da Serra, a water channel that winds through a mix of abandoned terraces and active farmland. Here, you’ll see a variety of fruits and vegetables—sugarcane, bananas, wine grapes, sweet potatoes, and more—giving you a taste of Madeira’s agricultural side without leaving your bike.

One of the tour’s strengths is the combination of forest sections featuring ancient laurel and tree heath trees, giant ferns, and aromatic herbs like oregano and wild fennel. It’s a sensory experience—lush greenery, fresh eucalyptus scent, and the occasional wildflower. The views down to the sea are spectacular, offering plenty of sweepingly beautiful photo opportunities.

Wildlife and Local Encounters

Throughout the ride, you’ll often encounter animals like chickens, cats, sheep, goats, and even friendly dogs that seem happy to join the group for a stretch. This adds an authentic, rural vibe to the experience that many riders find charming. Several reviews mention how these animal encounters enhance the tour, creating a relaxed, farm-like atmosphere.

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Rest Stops and Local Flavors

The tour emphasizes enjoyable breaks, where you can relax with a cup of coffee, a local soda called Brisa, or a homemade cake. These pauses aren’t just filler; they’re well-placed moments to soak up the local atmosphere, chat with your guide, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings. It’s a chance to slow down and really take in the moment rather than rushing through.

Suitability and Fitness Level

While the tour is marketed as easy, it does require a moderate level of fitness. The terrain can include gentle slopes and uneven surfaces, so it’s not suitable if you have mobility issues or are uncomfortable on a bike. The minimum height requirement is 4 ft 6 in (140 cm), which makes it accessible for many younger teens or older travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience really shines for those who enjoy leisurely outdoor activities, love nature, and want a stress-free way to see Madeira’s lush landscapes. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed day out should feel right at home here. If you’re prone to motion sickness or looking for something more adrenaline-fueled, this isn’t the ride for you.

The Real Benefits of the Levada Bike Tour

One of the reasons this tour gets such positive feedback is because of the knowledgeable guides. They’re praised for being friendly, informative, and attentive—making the ride informative without being overbearing. Their willingness to take photos means you can focus on enjoying the stunning views instead of fiddling with your camera.

The scenery is undeniably a highlight. Traveling along the levada allows you to see Madeira’s lush greenery, terraced fields, and rugged coastline from a fresh perspective. Many reviewers mention how the combination of ocean vistas and forested areas creates a varied landscape that feels like a series of postcard moments.

Another key perk is the value offered. For $80, you’re getting a guided tour, bike, safety gear, transportation, and photos—an all-inclusive experience that removes a lot of hassle from your day. It’s a good deal particularly if you’re traveling with family or a small group.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour is well-organized, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included—so bring some cash if you want to buy additional snacks or beverages during breaks. Also, the duration and terrain mean you should be reasonably comfortable on a bike and have decent stamina. If you’re expecting a very leisurely walk or a very slow ride, this might be a bit more active than you think.

Some reviewers have mentioned that the terrain can be uneven, so wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately is advisable. The environment is quite natural—think dirt paths, slight inclines, and shaded forest sections—so prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys gentle outdoor activities and wants to see Madeira’s landscapes in a relaxed setting, this Levada biking tour is a good pick. It’s especially suited for families with older children, couples, or solo travelers seeking a friendly, guided experience. The small group size makes it intimate and personal, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

While it may not satisfy adrenaline junkies or those seeking a challenging ride, it offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local charm, and comfort. The inclusion of local snacks and the chance to interact with farm animals add a layer of authenticity that many travelers appreciate.

This tour offers a memorable slice of Madeira’s rural landscape without the exhaustion of strenuous hikes or mountain biking. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to blend outdoor activity with cultural and natural highlights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for children over 4 ft 6 in (140 cm) who are comfortable on a bike. It’s a relaxed ride with plenty of stops, but younger children or those less comfortable on bikes might find it less suitable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothes, a windbreaker, and some cash for extra snacks or drinks during breaks.

How fit do I need to be?
A moderate fitness level is required. The terrain is mostly gentle, but some inclines and uneven paths mean you should be comfortable biking on natural surfaces.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase snacks or drinks during the breaks, so bringing some cash is recommended.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, depending on the guide.

What is the cancelation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic bike ride that combines stunning views, local flavor, and friendly guides, the Easy Levada Biking Tour in Madeira is definitely worth considering. It offers a lovely way to spend part of your trip soaking in the island’s natural beauty—without the hassle of strenuous activity or complicated logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here: