Embark on a journey through Madeira’s verdant landscapes with the Ribeiro Frio – Portela walk, a trail that will captivate you with its tranquil charm and stunning natural beauty. This trek provides an opportunity to delve into the heart of the island’s rich biodiversity, making it an absolute must for nature enthusiasts.
Friday
09h00 » 17h00
Adult: 38€
Children: 20€
Duration: 5 hours (approx.)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Itinerary
Ribeiro Frio: The adventure commences at Ribeiro Frio, a small village renowned for its trout farm and natural park, where you can admire a variety of indigenous and exotic plants. The highlight here is the laurel forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that surrounds the village and marks the beginning of your journey.
Spectacular Vistas: As you follow the trail, you will be treated to magnificent views of the deep valleys and towering mountains that characterize the island’s landscape. The path takes you along the Levada do Furado, one of Madeira’s historic water channels, providing a tranquil rhythm to your walk with the sound of flowing water.
Laurissilva Forest: One of the highlights of this walk is the opportunity to explore the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest forests in the world. As you wander through this enchanting woodland, you’ll be surrounded by a diverse array of endemic flora, including laurel trees, moss-covered rocks, and vibrant wildflowers. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery, breathe in the fresh forest air, and feel a sense of wonder at the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Portela: The walk culminates in the village of Portela, a charming location known for its stunning vistas of the north coast and Porto da Cruz. Here, you can rest, savour a meal at a local restaurant, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
Despite some steep segments, the Ribeiro Frio – Portela walk is generally of moderate difficulty and can be comfortably completed in about 4 hours. The trail is well marked, making it suitable for both seasoned hikers and those relatively new to hiking.
At Madeira Sunrise Tours, your safety is our top priority. Therefore, please note that we reserve the right to change, postpone, or cancel walks at short notice if there are adverse weather conditions, landslides, or other circumstances beyond our control.
If you need to cancel your reservation, a refund will only be provided if the cancellation is made by 4:00 PM the day before the scheduled tour/walk.
Please ensure you come prepared with suitable walking shoes or boots and a warm coat, especially if temperatures are low in the mountains.
For full-day walks, please bring a picnic and water with you as they will not be provided by Madeira Sunrise Tours.
