Levada do Alecrim – Rosemary Levada (Full Day Walk)

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to see some of its most beautiful landscapes without the hassle of navigation? The Levada do Alecrim tour might just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this exact walk, reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. This full-day guided hike is a great option if you want a scenic experience with some expert guidance, especially if you’re keen on photography and enjoying nature.

What stands out most about this tour is its stunning scenery and easy logistics—including transportation and a small-group setting. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the vehicle and guide’s engagement could be improved. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy moderate hikes and want a hassle-free way to explore Madeira’s levada systems without needing to worry about maps or routes.

If you’re the kind of person who loves to walk through lush landscapes, take plenty of photos, and learn a bit about the local environment from someone who knows the area, this is likely a good match. However, if you’re after a highly immersive or very personalized guide experience, you might find this one a little less engaging. Let’s break down what makes this tour tick, what you’ll see, and who it’s best for.

Key Points

• Guided walking means no need to worry about navigation or route-finding.
• The tour offers several fantastic photo opportunities, including waterfalls and lagoons.
• Transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable.
• The experience is small-group, capped at 14 travelers, fostering a more intimate vibe.
• Be prepared with good walking shoes and warm clothing for mountain conditions.
• Food and drinks are not included, so packing a picnic is recommended.

A Closer Look at the Levada do Alecrim Tour

What Is the Levada do Alecrim?

The Levada do Alecrim is part of Madeira’s famous network of levadas—these are irrigation channels carved into the landscape that have become popular trails. This particular route passes through Lagoa da Dª Beja, also known as the Da Beja Lagoon, offering some truly picturesque scenery. It’s a walk that combines lush greenery, small waterfalls, and panoramic views, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at around 9:00 am from a central meeting point in Funchal. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that takes you right to the start of the trail, sparing you the hassle of extra transportation. This is especially nice because walking in Madeira’s mountains can be quite a different experience from city touring.

Once at the trailhead, a guide leads you along the levada, sharing insights about the landscape, local flora, and history. The walk lasts approximately 8 hours, which includes ample time to stop, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. The route involves moderate walking, with some parts being quite scenic and others more challenging, like the descent to the Vento Waterfall.

Highlights Along the Route

One of the main perks of joining a guided walk is the access to hidden or hard-to-reach spots like the 25 Fountains and Da Beja Lagoon. These scenic stops are perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the quiet beauty. Many reviews mention the small waterfalls along the levada, which add a touch of magic to the walk.

The experience also offers lots of opportunities for photography—whether it’s waterfalls, lush greenery, or panoramic mountain views. Some reviewers mentioned that the scenery was “very nice,” and the views truly are a highlight.

What to Pack and Wear

Because you’ll be walking through mountain terrain, sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. The weather can be cooler and windier at higher altitudes, so packing a warm coat is a good idea—especially if you’re sensitive to colder temperatures. Remember to bring water and a picnic lunch, since food isn’t included. It’s a good chance to sit back, enjoy your meal amid nature, and chat with your fellow hikers.

Transportation and Group Size

The included air-conditioned transport is definitely a win for comfort; it ensures you won’t be tired from a long, hot bus ride before the walk begins. The tour is limited to 14 travelers, which tends to foster a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a small group.

From reviews, we see that the vehicle could be a bit older—one traveler remarked, “the vehicle was showing side of age”—but as long as it’s functional, it doesn’t detract too much from the overall experience.

The Experience – Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

• Stunning scenery and photo opportunities, especially waterfalls and lagoons.
• The guided approach helps you learn about the landscape without needing your own map.
• The small group size makes it easier to connect and ask questions.
• The transportation included makes the logistics straightforward and comfortable.

What Could Be Better

• Some reviews describe the guide’s engagement as limited; one noted the guide was “very much on his phone,” and didn’t share much about the scenery.
• The vehicle’s age was mentioned, though it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker.
• The walk can be challenging, especially the descent to the waterfall—good footwear and fitness help.

Cost and Value

At $52.14 per person, this tour offers good value for a full-day guided experience in Madeira’s scenic landscapes. The price covers transport, guiding, and access to some of the most photogenic spots along the levada. You’ll need to budget separately for food and drinks, but the convenience of having transportation and a guide included helps justify the cost, particularly if you prefer a hassle-free trip with minimal planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This walk is suitable for moderate hikers who enjoy scenic landscapes and don’t mind a bit of uphill and downhill terrain. It’s a solid option if you’re traveling with others who appreciate nature and photography. The small group setting makes it appealing for those who like more intimate experiences, but it might not be ideal if you’re looking for a highly personalized guide or very in-depth storytelling.

Final Thoughts

The Levada do Alecrim tour offers a lovely way to see Madeira’s natural beauty without the stress of navigation or logistics. The scenery is genuinely impressive, and the guided format ensures you don’t miss out on key sights. While some reviews note the guide’s limited engagement and the vehicle’s age, these don’t significantly diminish the overall experience for most.

If you value scenic walks, good photo opportunities, and a hassle-free day out, this tour could be a great addition to your Madeira itinerary. It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate terrain and who appreciate a guided approach to exploring the island’s lush landscapes.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from and back to the meeting point, making it easy to reach the trail without concern.

What should I bring for the walk? Bring sturdy walking shoes or boots, a warm coat for mountain chill, water, and a packed picnic or snacks since food and drinks aren’t included.

How long does the walk take? The full experience lasts roughly 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is designed for most travelers, but keep in mind the walk involves some challenging downhill sections and the terrain is mountain trail. Kids comfortable with walking should be fine.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

How many people are in each group? The tour is limited to 14 travelers, fostering a small-group atmosphere.

In the end, this guided walk along the Levada do Alecrim captures the essence of Madeira’s landscapes—beautiful, accessible, and with just enough adventure. It’s a straightforward choice if you’re looking to enjoy the island’s lush scenery without the hassle of planning each step yourself.