Curral Das Freiras offers a unique blend of dramatic mountain scenery and authentic local charm, making it an ideal place for walking tours. Unlike many tourist hotspots, this village is surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. We’re particularly fond of the Stairways to Heaven: Walk at Pico Areeiro – Guided because it combines a manageable trek with awe-inspiring views, all guided by experts who keep safety and comfort a priority. This walk also lets you skip the hassle of parking and traffic, making it easier to enjoy the scenery.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best walking experiences in Curral Das Freiras. Each offers a different slice of Madeira’s stunning landscape—whether it’s a scenic mountain hike, a sunrise moment, or an exploration of levada trails. Read on for detailed descriptions and help deciding which tour suits your style.
1. Stairways to Heaven: Walk at Pico Areeiro – Guided
This guided walk on Areeiro’s iconic PR1 path is a standout for anyone wanting a manageable yet unforgettable mountain experience. The tour explores Ninho da Manta and the famous Stairways to Heaven ridge, both spots renowned for their dramatic vistas. The entire experience lasts about four hours, with a small group size limited to eight people, ensuring personal attention from your guide.
What makes this tour special is its combination of convenience and authenticity. You’ll avoid the traffic jams and parking fees typically associated with Pico do Arieiro, since transportation is included. The guide will adapt the route to your pace, making it suitable for most fitness levels—though sturdy shoes and warm clothing are recommended due to the mountain weather. Expect to start at the Museu CR7 and enjoy scenic van rides between locations, with time spent walking on the PR1 trail, soaking in views that seem to stretch forever.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s local knowledge and flexibility, with one review calling it a “perfect balance of challenge and scenery.” Since weather can be unpredictable, bring a rain jacket, and remember this tour isn’t suitable for children under six or those with low fitness levels.
Bottom line: This guided walk offers a safe, intimate way to enjoy Madeira’s mountain scenery without the logistical headaches, making it ideal for active travelers seeking stunning views.
2. Sunrise by Madeira Surreal + Levada dos Balcões Walk
For an experience that combines a mountain sunrise with a tranquil levada walk, this tour hits the spot. Starting early, you’ll be picked up from various Funchal locations before heading up to Pico do Arieiro to watch the sun break over the mountains—an unforgettable moment that awakens all your senses. The crisp morning air and quiet landscape make it a rare chance to connect with nature at its most serene.
After sunrise, the tour continues with a walk along the Levada dos Balcões, a short, easy trail that offers spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. The entire experience lasts about four hours, with transportation included from five pickup points. The guides speak both English and Portuguese, adding local insights into the landscape and flora. The tour is perfect for those interested in a peaceful, scenic adventure that doesn’t require intense physical effort.
This experience is especially suitable for travelers who want a memorable, picture-perfect moment and enjoy the early morning environment. Be sure to bring a camera, warm clothing, and comfortable shoes. Note that the activity involves early hours, so it’s best for those who don’t mind getting up before dawn.
Bottom line: This tour offers a beautiful combination of sunrise magic and levada scenery, ideal for nature lovers looking for a peaceful, memorable start to their day.
3. Combining Mountain Sunrise and Levada Walk
While not a separate listed tour, many travelers opt for a custom combination of the Sunrise by Madeira Surreal experience plus a guided levada walk, like the Levada dos Balcões. If your schedule allows, this provides a full morning of spectacular sights—beginning with the quiet dawn, then descending into lush levada scenery.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Curral Das Freiras
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, interest in sunrise vs. mountain hikes, and desire for guided support. The Stairways to Heaven is perfect if you want a manageable, guided mountain adventure with flexible pacing, while the Sunrise by Madeira Surreal offers a peaceful, early-morning connection with nature. For those with limited time or wanting a little of both, combining the tours or selecting a guided hike with stunning views may suit you best.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the sunrise tour, since spots fill fast and weather conditions can influence availability. Also, pack practical gear like sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and rain jackets.
Final Thoughts
Curral Das Freiras provides a range of walking experiences that showcase its dramatic scenery and authentic charm. Whether you prefer a guided mountain hike like Stairways to Heaven, a peaceful sunrise moment, or a levada walk that reveals Madeira’s lush interior, there’s something for every adventurer.
For those seeking an active, scenic, and well-organized tour, the guided walk on Pico Areeiro offers excellent value and safety. If a tranquil morning surrounded by mountain silence appeals more, then the sunrise experience could be your perfect start. No matter your choice, booking early and preparing with proper gear will ensure you enjoy your Madeira adventure to the fullest.
