The Levada do Rei is one of the levadas not to be missed, a magnificent route through the Madeira's Laurissilva, where it is possible to appreciate the unique vegetation.
Why does it call ‘Kings Levada’-Levada do Rei?
It got this name because it was built by King D. Carlos I in the late 19th century to irrigate the fields of São Jorge and feed the existing water mills.
Levada do rei details
Hike Distance: The total distance is 9.8-kilometers round-trip.
Hike Duration: The hike can be completed in about 2-3 hours depending on how long you relax and enjoy the natural
Hike Difficulty: This trail is one of the easiest Levada walks on Madeira. There is only a little bit of incline, the trail is clearly marked and there are no moments of danger on this very popular tourist route.
How to get to Levada do Rei?
It is possible to catch the bus from Funchal (103,138 from ''horários do Funchal'') but it won’t take you quite to the trailhead. You will get dropped at the Chão da Felpa bus stop and then have a 20-minute walk for just over 1-kilometer to reach the start of the trail.
The best way is to rent a car and start where the trailhead is marked with a pin on the map below
Best trips to get to Levada do Rei
Kings Levada Walk in Sao Jorge
Guided Levada do Rei Ribeiro Bonito Walk
Levada do Rei Ribeiro Bonito Levada Walk
What to expect on the Levada do Rei hike
- Perfect for families, older hikers, and those who are inexperienced hikers
- Views of the São Jorge and Santana farmlands amidst cliffs on the other side of the valley
- A beautiful gorge area with small waterfalls and lovely pools for a refreshing swim
- A small tunnel
- A waterfall shower
- Endemic birds
- There are a few dirt trails that lead to small waterfalls
- Cascades and waterfalls
- Diverse natural flora and fauna