Trails
Caminho Real 25
38.0 km, São Vicente to Funchal
The place
Caminho Real 25 links São Vicente on the north coast with Funchal on the south coast, a walk of about 38 km between the two ends. It is one of the six numbered Caminhos Reais, which were historic municipal footpaths and, before roads were built, the only way into villages.
It is a very hard walk with an estimated 14 hours on foot, and the route runs from near sea level to about 1,340 m, with more than 1,900 m of climbing in total. Two days suit it better than one. The Caminho Real association's website has a GPX download for the route, which can be loaded onto a phone. Funchal, the island's capital, is where the walk finishes, so plan transport for the return.
Highlights
- A long walk between the north-coast town of São Vicente and the capital, Funchal.
- The line runs from near sea level to about 1,340 m within a single walk.
- More than 1,900 m of climbing makes it a very hard walk.
- It is one of six numbered Caminhos Reais, historic footpaths that once linked the island's villages.
When to come
Pick a dry, settled day in spring or autumn and start at first light, since the walk takes about 14 hours on foot. Wet weather makes island paths muddy, so check the forecast the day before.
Getting there
Start at São Vicente on the north coast and finish in Funchal on the south coast, arranging a lift or taxi for the far end before you set out.
Worth knowing
- Allow about 14 hours on foot for the full route of about 38 km.
- Rated very hard, with more than 1,900 m of climbing and a high point near 1,340 m.
- Carry water and food for a long day, since the route covers a wide range of altitude.
- The Caminho Real association's website has a GPX file for the route, which helps you follow the line.
- Pack a waterproof, since wet weather makes island paths muddy.
- Plan transport between São Vicente and Funchal before you start.