Levada da Referta

Exploring Levada da Referta: A gentle walk with rewarding views

If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor activity in Madeira that doesn’t demand serious hiking skills, the Levada da Referta tour could be just what you need. It’s a short, flat walk near Porto da Cruz, designed to be accessible for all ages and fitness levels. From the perspective of someone who’s been around the block with scenic tours, this one offers a blend of beautiful landscapes and a taste of local agricultural life without the exhaustion or risk of more challenging hikes.

What really drew us to this experience are two standout features. First, the views of Penha de Águia, a dramatic rock face that adds a touch of wildness to the landscape, and second, the chance to see the local crops grown by farmers who still work the land in traditional ways. The tour also includes hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you can relax from the moment you leave your hotel — no logistical stress.

But, it’s worth mentioning that the duration is quite short — just about four minutes of walking, which might leave some travelers wanting a bit more substance for their money. If you’re after a longer outdoor adventure, this might feel like a quick taste rather than a full experience. However, if your goal is to enjoy a peaceful stroll with scenic views and cultural insights, this could be ideal. It’s particularly suited for families, older travelers, or anyone who prefers an easy walk that’s more about soaking in the atmosphere than conquering tough terrain.

For those considering this tour, it’s best suited for travelers who value scenic simplicity and cultural authenticity over strenuous exercise. If you’re after a quick, picturesque outing that incorporates local farming scenes and stunning rock formations, this walk delivers.

Key Points

• Accessible for all ages thanks to its flat, easy trail
• Enjoy views of Penha de Águia, a striking rock formation
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple
• Short duration of roughly 4 minutes, ideal for a quick scenic experience
• Focus on local flora and farming practices along the trail
• Small group size (max 15), ensuring a more personal experience

What is the Levada da Referta Experience?

The Levada da Referta is essentially a short, flat walk that offers a relaxed way to see Madeira’s countryside. It’s considered an easy-grade walk, making it perfect if you’re not looking for a strenuous hike but still want to be outdoors and enjoy nature. The walk is mostly on flat ground, so you won’t encounter steep inclines or challenging terrain.

You’ll start in Porto da Cruz, with two possible starting points, and follow a trail that runs alongside one of Madeira’s famous levadas — small irrigation channels that have been part of the island’s farming life for centuries. The walk is one-way, so you’ll likely finish at a different point from where you start, which makes for an interesting route. You’ll be surrounded by agricultural land, where local crops like sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, sugarcane, and avocados are cultivated — a real glimpse into traditional farming practices.

The highlight for many is the views of Penha de Águia, a rugged, towering rock face that seems to watch over the landscape. This is a feature that’s visible throughout the walk, providing a dramatic natural backdrop and some fantastic photo opportunities.

What makes the walk special?

The appeal of this walk lies in its simplicity and scenic charm. It’s not overly long or demanding, making it accessible to families, seniors, or anyone wanting a light outdoor activity. We loved the way it offers a peek into local farming life — you see farmers harvesting, tending crops, and working without the aid of machines, as one reviewer pointed out: “Härlig vandring på norra Madeira. Här ser man tydligt hur bönderna/hushållen odlar utan hjälp av maskiner.”

Plus, the small group size (capped at 15) ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed, and the included hotel pickup and drop-off is a real bonus, especially if you’re staying in Funchal or Caniço. It takes away the hassle of navigating public transport or arranging separate transfers.

The itinerary: What to expect during the walk

Given the very short duration — about four minutes of actual walking — this isn’t a full-day expedition but rather a quick scenic outing. The actual walk is relatively short and flat, making it suitable for most people, including children and older travelers.

The tour begins with hotel pickup early in the morning, around 9:00 am, from designated meeting points in Caniço or Funchal. Once you arrive in Porto da Cruz, your guide will brief you on what to expect. You’ll then set out on the Levada da Referta, following the trail that runs alongside the levada, offering tranquil views of cultivated fields and untouched land.

Throughout the walk, your guide will point out local flora and discuss traditional farming practices. You might observe farmers harvesting crops like sweet potatoes, beans, or avocados, giving you insight into Madeira’s agricultural heritage.

The highlight is the view of Penha de Águia, which creates a stunning natural silhouette against the sky. While the walk itself is brief, the scenery and atmosphere are peaceful and picturesque. After completing the walk, you’ll be transported back to your hotel.

What travelers are saying

While the tour currently has only one review with a neutral rating, that reviewer shared a vivid impression of local agricultural life: “Härlig vandring på norra Madeira. Här ser man tydligt hur bönderna/hushållen odlar utan hjälp av maskiner. Fyra skördar per år av sötpotatis, bönor, plommontomat, sockerrör, avocado mm mm.” That glimpse into traditional farming is a highlight for many visitors, especially those interested in authentic local culture.

One of the key takeaways from this review is that the tour provides a real snapshot of rural Madeira. Even on such a short walk, you get to see how farmers work without machinery, which is not just interesting but adds depth to your understanding of the island’s landscape.

Is the price worth it?

At $41.91 per person, this tour is on the pricier side for a four-minute walk, but it’s important to consider what’s included: professional guide, hotel pickup, and drop-off. If you value comfort, convenience, and a personal touch, it can be quite reasonable. Plus, the experience offers a unique peek into local agriculture and stunning scenery, which many travelers find memorable.

However, if you’re seeking a longer outdoor adventure or more physical activity, this might feel a bit too brief. It’s best thought of as a highlight-stop rather than a full-day hike.

Who would love this experience?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic outing with minimal effort. It’s ideal if you enjoy easy walks, beautiful views, and local culture, but don’t want to spend hours on your feet. Families with children, older travelers, or those with limited mobility will find it particularly accessible.

If you’re after a quick, picturesque taste of Madeira’s countryside, this walk delivers. It’s also a good option for those who want a hassle-free experience with hotel transfers included.

The Sum Up

The Levada da Referta offers a gentle, scenic stroll that delivers a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and rural life. It’s not a lengthy trek, but it makes up for that with stunning views of Penha de Águia and the chance to see traditional farming practices firsthand. The small-group format and hotel pickup make it convenient and personal, especially if you prefer to keep things simple.

This tour is truly suited for those who value easy, relaxed outdoor experiences and want to avoid the exertion of more demanding hikes. It’s particularly appealing if you want to combine sightseeing with cultural insights in a peaceful setting.

While the walk itself is brief, the scenery and authentic atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop on your Madeira itinerary. Just keep in mind that it’s more about the experience and views than a long adventure — perfect for a morning or afternoon outing that leaves you with beautiful memories without the fatigue.

FAQ

Is the walk suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is flat and short, making it suitable for children and all ages, especially since it’s designed as an easy trail.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if you wish.

What’s the best time of day to do this walk?
It starts at 9:00 am, which is a good time to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer morning light.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather are possible. You’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How long does the walk last?
The walk itself is approximately four minutes, but the entire tour including transfers and briefings fits within a morning or afternoon.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, a professional guide usually leads the tour, often multilingual, to enhance your understanding of the area.

What do I see during the walk?
You’ll see local flora, farmland, and views of the Penha de Águia rock face.

Are there any challenging sections?
No, the trail is flat and straightforward with no significant difficulties.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if the weather is warm or slightly rainy.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the Levada da Referta tour. It’s a gentle way to enjoy Madeira’s landscapes, especially if you prefer an easy stroll over challenging hikes.