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Trails

Levada dos Tornos - Norte

Down the Boaventura valley to the coastal platform of Fajã do Penedo

AI illustration of this part of the island, not a photograph of Levada dos Tornos - Norte
AI illustration of this part of the island, not a photograph of Levada dos Tornos - Norte

The place

The northern Levada dos Tornos starts at the head of the Boaventura valley, on the north side of the island, and follows the water channel down to Fajã do Penedo, a small coastal platform. The official route is about 13 km one way and takes under four hours.

The opening climb is steep, after which the walk is mostly level beside the channel, passing laurel woodland and a waterfall. A detour to the waterfall near the start adds about 4 km there and back. Because the route is one way, plan the return before you set out.

Highlights

  1. The steep opening climb above the village, after which the levada runs mostly level along the valley.
  2. A waterfall detour near the start, which adds about 4 km there and back.
  3. Laurel woodland along the valley, with the Madeira firecrest among the birds to look for.

When to come

Go on a dry day, since rain makes the path slippery and some drops are unfenced. The route takes under four hours one way, so start early to finish in daylight.

Getting there

Drive the coastal ER 101 from Funchal, which takes just over 45 minutes, to the village at the head of the Boaventura valley, where the road ends. There is no designated hiker car park, so park on the roadside and walk to the trailhead sign at the top of the village.

Worth knowing

  • Distance: about 13 km one way on the official route.
  • Time: under four hours one way.
  • Ascent: about 180 metres, mostly in the steep opening section.
  • Difficulty: moderate, with the opening climb the hardest part.
  • Exposure: unfenced drop-offs run along the levada, and the wide path has no barrier in places; take care near the rocky outcrop, where rocks can break off.
  • Loop: a lower, unofficial levada can take you back to the village, but it is hard to find and not well maintained.
  • Accessibility: the steep opening climb and uneven ground make this unsuitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
  • Supplies: carry all the water and food you need for the day.

Nearby

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