Madeira: Private Moinhos Levada Nova Walk Ponta do Sol

If you’re considering a walk that combines spectacular scenery, endemic flora, and a taste of Madeira’s lush landscape, the Private Moinhos Levada Nova Walk might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but from all the details available, it looks like an experience that offers both visual rewards and a sense of intimacy that you often miss on larger group hikes.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to explore a beautiful trail in a private setting—imagine having your own guide to tailor the walk to your pace and interests. Plus, the promise of incredible views over the Ponta do Sol region and encountering waterfalls and tunnels along the way makes it appealing for those who love nature and photography.

That said, a notable consideration is that the route includes areas with abysses and no protections, so it’s not suited for those who aren’t comfortable with heights or uneven terrain. This is definitely a walk for those in decent shape who can handle some uneven ground.

This tour seems perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, guided nature experience, especially if you enjoy walking through farmland, forest, and scenic viewpoints. Families with older children who are comfortable on uneven trails could also find this a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Offers intimacy and personalized attention from your guide.
• Spectacular Views: Panoramas of the valley, waterfalls, and Ponta do Sol are highlights.
• Nature and Wildlife: Opportunity to see endemic flora and local birdlife.
• Physical Aspects: Covers about 4.5 km, with some sections featuring heights and no safety barriers.
• Duration & Flexibility: About 5 hours, with flexible start times (check availability).
• All-Inclusive Service: Includes transportation, WiFi, flashlight, and insurance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Levada Nova Walk

When you step onto the trail, you’ll start by walking through cultivated farmland—this is a peaceful beginning that sets the tone for the day. We loved the way this section gives you a sense of the local life and the lush landscape of Madeira. It’s a gentle intro before the views open up more dramatically.

Once past the farmland, the trail takes you through scenic forested areas, where the canopy provides some welcome shade on warmer days. The views of the surrounding landscape are truly striking—think sweeping valleys, terraced hillsides, and the distant Atlantic. Your guide will likely point out endemic flora and fauna, adding an educational touch to your walk.

As you continue, you’ll encounter viewpoints that are perfect for photos—so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. You might also see local birds and other fauna along the way. Keep an eye out for waterfalls, which punctuate the landscape beautifully and provide some of the most photogenic moments of the walk.

The highlight for many is reaching the end of the path that leads to the Levada Nova. Here, you’ll climb a trail that offers a new perspective on the terrain, culminating in an impressive waterfall. Many reviewers have remarked on the stunning scenery here, describing it as a “spectacular panorama” that’s well worth the effort.

From this point, you’ll continue on the Levada Nova itself. It’s a narrow, sometimes exposed trail with sections that feature abysses and no barriers—so it’s not recommended for those afraid of heights or with mobility issues. It’s worth noting that the guide will return you safely to your starting point after the walk, ensuring a smooth experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a private pickup from your accommodation in Funchal or nearby areas like Caniço or Câmara de Lobos. The convenience of private transport means you won’t have to worry about public buses or navigating unfamiliar roads, and the onboard WiFi can be a bonus if you want to share your experience in real-time.

Walk Through Farmlands

The trail kicks off amid cultivated farmland. This peaceful stretch provides a gentle warm-up and a chance to appreciate local agriculture. It’s a nice contrast to the wild landscapes that follow and offers your first glimpses of Madeira’s rural charm.

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Forest and Scenic Views

As the trail progresses, you’ll enter lush forested areas. Here, the canopy filters sunlight, and you might spot some endemic plant species. The views open up over the valley and Ponta do Sol—a picturesque village that’s popular for its colorful houses and seaside charm.

Waterfalls and Tunnels

Expect to encounter waterfalls that cascade down rocky cliffs, creating perfect photo ops. The route also includes tunnels—some ancient or carved—adding a bit of adventure to the walk. These features showcase Madeira’s volcanic past and the ingenuity behind its irrigation system.

Climbing to Levada Nova and the Final Waterfall

The climb to Levada Nova is a rewarding part of the journey, offering sweeping vistas. Once you reach the viewpoint, heading toward the waterfall at the end completes the adventure. The waterfall is often regarded as a highlight, with many guests describing it as “impressive” and “breathtaking.”

The Final Stretch and Return

Continuing along Levada Nova, you’ll traverse narrow, sometimes exposed paths. The guides emphasize safety, but you should be comfortable with heights. After reaching the endpoint, your guide will escort you back to your vehicle, ending the 5-hour experience.

The Value of This Tour

At $102 per person, the cost covers quite a bit: private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, insurance, and the experience itself. Since it’s a private tour, you’re getting a tailored outing, which is a real plus for those who dislike large groups or want a more personalized experience.

The inclusion of WiFi and a flashlight (if needed) shows that the provider has thought about convenience and safety. Having your guide available to answer questions and point out flora, fauna, or geological features adds educational value to the walk.

The Real-World Experience

Reviewers have praised guides for their expertise, calling them “super” and recommending the tour for everyone. The personalized aspect means you can pace yourself and focus on the sights that interest you most.

What Could Be Improved

A downside is the route’s exposure in certain sections—if you’re uneasy with heights or unsteady footing, this may not be ideal. Also, the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you should plan to bring water and perhaps some snacks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is great for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys moderately challenging hikes with stunning scenery. Since it’s private, it works well for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a personalized touch. It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility limitations or those uncomfortable with heights.

Families with older children who enjoy walking could also find this a memorable outing, provided everyone is comfortable on uneven terrain. The tour’s length and moderate difficulty make it a good choice for active travelers wanting a full, scenic experience without the intensity of a full-day trek.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Madeira Private Moinhos Levada Nova Walk offers a lovely way to connect with the island’s natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of larger tours. The scenery, from farmland to waterfalls, paired with a knowledgeable guide, creates a memorable and personalized experience.

If you’re someone who values quality over quantity, prefers guided walks that focus on nature and scenery, and are okay with some heights and uneven ground, this tour could be a highlight of your Madeira trip. The price reflects the private nature and quality of the experience, making it a worthwhile splurge for a special day out.

For those who want to see Madeira’s landscapes at a relaxed pace and enjoy insider insights, this walk promises to deliver. Just make sure you’re prepared with comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the more scenic and authentic adventures on the island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can participate if they are comfortable on uneven terrain and can handle some heights, but they must be accompanied by an adult. It’s not suitable for unaccompanied minors.

How long is the walk?
The walk covers approximately 4.5 kilometers and lasts about 5 hours, including transportation and stops.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, you should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. The tour provider also recommends bringing water and potentially a flashlight if needed.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour, meaning your group will be the only ones with the guide, which allows for a tailored experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes a driver and guide, private transportation with WiFi onboard, insurance, and a flashlight when necessary.

Are there any safety concerns?
Some sections have abysses and no barriers, so it’s not advisable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. The guide will ensure your safety as much as possible.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In essence, this tour strikes a balance between scenic beauty and manageable difficulty, crafted for travelers who want a personalized touch and the chance to truly absorb Madeira’s stunning landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: