Ribeiro Frio – Portela

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through lush forests and catching glimpses of waterfalls and mountain vistas, then the Ribeiro Frio to Portela tour offers an inviting taste of Madeira’s extraordinary landscape. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trek, reviews and details paint a picture of a peaceful, scenic experience that’s particularly appealing to those who love nature and don’t mind a moderate walk.

One of the biggest draws? The verdant, endemic vegetation along the levada, including the renowned Laurissilva forest—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Plus, the promise of beautiful valley views and the chance to occasionally spot trout in the water add extra charm. On the flip side, a common concern is that some parts of the trail might be temporarily inaccessible due to repairs or natural events, which can change the experience quite a bit.

This tour feels best suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, are comfortable with a moderate walk of around four hours, and want to enjoy Madeira’s famed greenery up close. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a peaceful escape into nature rather than a strenuous hike or a packed sightseeing schedule.

Key Points

• Beautiful landscape: The levada walk offers tranquil views of Madeira’s lush forests and valleys.
• Endemic vegetation: You’ll pass through well-preserved Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO site.
• Flexible experience: The walk is moderate, suitable for most travelers with decent fitness.
• Potential disruptions: Some parts may be temporarily closed or rerouted, affecting the experience.
• Limited included amenities: No lunch included, so plan accordingly.
• Group size: Small groups (max 8) make for a more intimate experience.
• Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle pickup adds convenience.
• Cost vs. value: At around $54, this offers a memorable, scenic outing, especially considering transportation and guide service.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early in the morning at the CR7 Museum in Funchal, with a pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle. From there, it’s about a 7-hour round-trip adventure, though the actual walking time is roughly 4 hours. The route takes you along the levada, a traditional irrigation canal that’s been carved into Madeira’s landscape for centuries.

Starting Point at CR7 Museum

The meeting point is conveniently located in São Martinho, offering easy access for most visitors. Once everyone is gathered, your guide provides a quick briefing, and then it’s time to head out into Madeira’s greenery.

The Levada Walk

The heart of the experience is walking along the levada that crosses into the Filoresta Laurissilva do Til and Vinhático forests. These areas are well-preserved examples of Madeira’s endemic flora, where you can breathe in the scent of ancient trees and listen to the gentle sounds of flowing water. The levada itself is gentle, making it accessible for most, but be sure you’re comfortable walking on narrow, sometimes uneven paths.

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the fantastic views over Penha d’Águia—a striking mountain formation—offering excellent photo opportunities. The trail sometimes crosses valleys and offers glimpses of waterfalls, small streams, and local flora. The walk is generally flat, with some narrow sections that demand moderate balance and sure footing.

Water Features & Wildlife

Throughout the walk, you may occasionally see trout swimming in the water, a bonus for nature enthusiasts. The lush surroundings and the calmness of the environment make it a peaceful escape from busy city life.

Scenic Viewpoints

Depending on current trail conditions, you might reach exciting viewpoints or pass through tunnels that add a bit of adventure to the stroll. One reviewer in particular noted that arriving early is key to avoiding crowds at the scenic spots, as the area can become quite busy later in the day.

End at Portela

The tour concludes at Portela, which is near Porto da Cruz, along the levada route. The journey back is relaxed, and you’ll be returned to Funchal comfortably, with the option to discuss your favorite parts of the walk.

What To Expect on the Day

You can count on a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, pickup around 8:00 am, and a small group of like-minded travelers. The walk itself is described as “not very strenuous,” but travelers should be at a moderate fitness level. Remember, walking along narrow paths or through forested areas requires a bit of agility and balance.

There are no meals included, so bringing some snacks and water is recommended. The tour does charge an additional tax of €3 per person (starting January 2025) for trail maintenance and waste collection, payable on the day, which is an important detail to keep in mind.

Real Traveler Insights

Several reviewers highlight the stunning scenery as the main attraction. One praised the short walk ending at a “most amazing viewpoint,” emphasizing the importance of arriving early to beat the crowds. Others mentioned some disappointment when landslides temporarily closed parts of the levada, leading to rerouted routes that lacked the same scenic appeal. This variability is worth noting because natural events can change the experience unexpectedly.

A different reviewer shared that the walk was “a little challenging” due to narrow, sometimes slippery paths, particularly in the forest, requiring some caution but rewarding with peaceful views and quiet trails. The fact that the trail isn’t heavily trafficked on certain days adds to the sense of enjoying a private slice of Madeira’s wilderness.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour costs around $54.41 per person, which includes transportation but not lunch.
• It’s booked quite far in advance—about 176 days on average—so plan early if this is your preferred date.
• Confirmations come instantly upon booking, and you’ll receive details about pickup points and times.
• Travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity, as the walk lasts around 4 hours.
• Be prepared for possible trail repairs or rerouting, and check recent reviews for updates on trail conditions.
• The small group size (up to 8 travelers) makes the experience more intimate, but it also means you’ll want to reserve your spot early.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves gentle nature walks, scenic views, and exploring forests with endemic plants, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, rather than adrenaline-filled hiking. Travelers who enjoy photography will love the vistas over Penha d’Águia and waterfalls.

However, if you’re looking for a rugged, challenging trek, or if mobility is an issue, you might find parts of this walk a bit demanding because of narrow paths and uneven terrain. Also, those hoping to avoid any chance of trail closures should keep an eye on recent reviews and trail conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long is the walking portion of the tour?
A: The walk itself lasts about 4 hours, covering a scenic levada route through Madeira’s forests and valleys.

Q: What is included in the tour price?
A: The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and the guided walk. Lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
A: The walk is moderate and includes narrow or uneven paths, so it’s best for those with good mobility and moderate physical fitness.

Q: Are there any additional costs?
A: Yes, from January 2025, there will be a €3 per person fee for trail maintenance, payable on the day of the walk.

Q: What happens if part of the trail is closed?
A: Some reviews mention trail repairs or landslides causing reroutes, which may lead to less scenic sections. The tour provider will adjust accordingly.

Q: Can I cancel if my plans change?
A: Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Q: What’s the best time to do this walk?
A: Early mornings are recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere.

Q: How do I get to the meeting point?
A: The tour starts at the CR7 Museum in São Martinho, easily reachable from most parts of Funchal.

Final Thoughts

The Ribeiro Frio to Portela levada walk offers a peaceful glimpse into Madeira’s lush, green landscape, with highlights like endemic forests and scenic viewpoints. It’s a well-organized, small-group experience that allows you to enjoy the island’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. While some parts of the trail can be temporarily rerouted or closed, the overall experience remains a worthwhile outing for nature lovers.

If you’re looking for a calm, scenic walk that showcases Madeira’s famous greenery and offers the chance to see waterfalls and mountain vistas, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. Just keep an eye on recent trail conditions, arrive early at the viewpoints, and enjoy the serenity of this island paradise.

Remember: This tour is best suited for those who appreciate gentle hikes, stunning views, and peaceful forest environments—perfect if you want a break from busy sightseeing but still crave the natural magic of Madeira.