Trails
Vereda do Pesqueiro
From Lombadinha down to the sea and back up again
The place
The Vereda do Pesqueiro is a round trip of about 4.6 km that starts at Lombadinha, on the E.R. 101 road in the Calheta area, and drops to Porto do Pesqueiro on the shore. There is no long approach, because the walk begins at the roadside. The zigzagging path is steep in places, and part of it runs along cliffs prone to falling rock.
At the bottom is a pebbly, rocky shore. Swimming is not advised, and rising tides make the shore a hazard. The round trip takes two to two and a half hours and is rated medium, so it suits walkers who are comfortable on steep, rough ground. It is a walk for the coastline itself rather than a day at the beach.
Highlights
- A zigzag path takes you from the road to the shore in one steep descent.
- The shore is pebbly and rocky, and swimming is not advised.
- Part of the path runs along cliffs above the coast, with the sea in view below.
When to come
Choose a calm, dry day and check the tide before you go, since rising water is a hazard on the shore.
Getting there
Drive from Funchal to Lombadinha on the E.R. 101 and start there, since the walk is a round trip that returns to the same roadside spot.
Worth knowing
- Allow two to two and a half hours for the round trip of about 4.6 km.
- The route is rated medium, and the terrain is steep in places.
- The shore is pebbly and rocky, so wear footwear with good grip.
- Do not go swimming here, and keep away from the water when the tide is rising.
- Keep back from the base of the cliffs, because falling rock is a known risk along that stretch.
- Carry water and sun protection for the round trip.