Lakes of Madeira- Alecrim Full day walk

If you’re eyeing a walk that showcases Madeira’s lush landscapes and unique geology without the hassle of navigating alone, the Lakes of Madeira – Alecrim Full Day Walk might just be worth considering. This guided trek through the UNESCO-listed levada and Laurisilva forest promises stunning views, interesting insights, and the chance to cool off in mountain pools.

What I really like about this experience is the combination of expert guidance and the ease of transportation, which can make a day of hiking smoother, especially if you’re not familiar with the terrain. Plus, the opportunity to learn about the natural history of Madeira adds a layer of depth to the walk. However, it’s worth noting that this is a moderate physical activity — not suitable if you suffer from vertigo or have mobility issues.

This tour suits nature lovers who enjoy a good walk, appreciate scenic landscapes, and want a guided experience to avoid getting lost. It’s also a solid choice for those who want a full-day adventure in the mountains but prefer a well-organized, comfortable outing. If you’re after a relaxed, informative trek with chances for refreshing swims, this might be just right.

Key Points

• Guided experience makes navigating the trail easier and more informative
• Includes transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Stunning scenery with waterfalls, pools, and lush forest
• Moderate physical effort, with some steep parts but manageable for most active travelers
• Not suitable for vertigo sufferers due to some steep ascents and descents
• Ideal for those wanting an immersive nature walk with knowledgeable guides

An In-Depth Look at the Alecrim Full Day Walk

When thinking about an adventure like this, it’s helpful to understand exactly what’s involved and what makes it worth your time — or what might make you pause. Here, I’ll break down the itinerary, what you can expect at each stop, and what makes this tour stand out.

The Pickup and Start: Convenience from the Get-Go

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup and transportation included, which simplifies your day. No need to hunt for a meeting point or worry about transportation logistics — especially handy if you’re unfamiliar with Madeira’s roads or just want to relax from the start. The vehicle is air-conditioned, so you’ll stay comfortable during the ride to the trailhead.

The Levada do Alecrim: A Walk Like No Other

The main highlight is the Levada do Alecrim, a trail that winds through the western plateau’s valley. This area is famous for its carved rock pools, waterfalls, and cascades, formed over millions of years by rushing waters. Many travelers describe this as possibly their favorite walk in Madeira — and it’s easy to see why.

During the hike, you’ll experience a variety of terrain. The walk includes flat levada sections perfect for steady walking, along with some steeper, more challenging parts like mountain tracks and scrambling up to the oldest levada on the island’s west. The guide’s job isn’t just to lead the way but to point out interesting flora and geology you might miss alone.

One of the most memorable moments is when you reach the valley’s water pools. Many visitors, including one who reviewed the tour, loved stopping for a swim in summer — a cool, refreshing break after the walk. Just pack your swimsuit if you plan to take a dip; it’s not included but highly recommended if the weather is warm.

Learning Along the Way: Nature and History

The guide plays a key role in enriching your experience. According to reviews, Margarita, the guide, was both helpful and informative, making sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. She’ll share insights about the landscape’s formation, the local flora, and interesting facts about the levada system.

This additional context turns a simple walk into an educational experience. When you’re wandering through lush forests and past waterfalls, understanding how these landscapes developed adds much value.

The Scenic Highlights and Breaks

A major draw is the scenery. Many reviews mention the incredible vistas, especially near the waterfalls and pools. The walk offers a good mixture of forest trekking, unmarked roots, and some scrambles — not for the faint-hearted but manageable for most with moderate fitness.

The walk lasts around 4 hours, covering diverse terrain that keeps things interesting. Keep in mind, some parts are steep, but the views and natural beauty more than compensate for the effort. As Anne pointed out, the walk was challenging at times, but “the views and nature were totally worth it,” and the guide’s attentiveness made everyone feel safe.

Additional Activities and Considerations

The tour doesn’t include lunch, meaning you’ll need to bring a packed meal or snacks. This is worth planning for, especially if you’re used to having a hearty lunch during outdoor activities. The guide may suggest good spots to stop, such as near the lagoon, which travelers have found beautiful — a perfect place to relax and enjoy your food.

The Return and End of the Day

After exploring the pools and scenic spots, the group heads back to the starting point, typically arriving in the early afternoon. This timing lets you enjoy the day without feeling rushed, and you’re dropped off at your hotel, ready to unwind.

Is It Good Value? An Honest Look at Pricing

At roughly $50.90 per person, this tour offers a lot for outdoor enthusiasts. Given that transportation and guiding are included, plus the stunning scenery and the chance to learn about Madeira’s geology and flora, it feels like a fair deal. The reviews highlight the walk’s value, with many noting the memorable landscapes and helpful guide.

However, keep in mind that the cost doesn’t cover lunch, so you’ll want to bring your own food. If you’re on a budget, this adds a small extra expense, but overall, the price aligns well with a guided full-day experience of this caliber.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and scenic outdoor activities. It’s suitable for those comfortable with some steep sections but not for anyone with vertigo or mobility issues. Nature lovers, photography fans, or anyone wanting a deeper appreciation of Madeira’s landscapes will find this walk rewarding. Families or groups with children should consider their comfort with uneven terrain and the walk’s length.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a pretty consistent picture. One traveler called it “the walk they enjoyed the most in Madeira,” appreciating the combination of impressive waterfalls and a restful spot for swimming. Another highlighted the helpfulness and informativeness of the guide, making the trek enjoyable and safe.

Some noted the walk could be tough in certain sections, with steep ascents and descents, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The tour’s small group size (max 18 travelers) means it feels personal and manageable.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This?

If you love guided outdoor adventures that offer a balance of scenery, education, and physical activity, this tour is a strong pick. It works well for active travelers who want to experience Madeira’s natural beauty without the stress of planning every detail. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient, and the focus on interesting flora and geology adds depth to a straightforward hike.

This isn’t a tour for those seeking a leisurely stroll or something highly family-friendly, but it’s perfect for anyone wanting a true taste of Madeira’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and mountain pools. The overall positive reviews and the value offered make it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is manageable for most active travelers, it involves some steep parts and scrambling, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility challenges. Always consider the child’s fitness level and comfort with uneven terrain.

What should I bring on the tour?
A pack lunch is necessary since none is provided. You might also want to bring comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit if you plan to swim, water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

How long does the walk last?
The walk itself takes about 4 hours, plus transportation time. It’s a full-day activity, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the early afternoon.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, this experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Check the forecast before booking.

What makes this tour special compared to other Madeira walks?
The guided aspect, diverse terrain, and the chance to swim in mountain pools set this apart. Many find it the most enjoyable levada walk in Madeira, thanks to its scenic beauty and expert guidance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

In all, the Lakes of Madeira – Alecrim Full Day Walk offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, guided expertise, and convenient logistics. While it’s not without its physical challenges, it’s a memorable way to experience Madeira’s landscapes if you’re prepared for some moderate hiking.