Levada Do Rei (PR 18) Trail

The Levada do Rei is one of the walking trails of the north coast of Madeira, in the São Jorge area of the Santana municipality, and it follows an irrigation channel through the island's ancient laurel forest. Levadas are among the most distinctive features of the island. Starting in the 16th century, settlers cut channels along the mountainsides to carry water from the wet northern slopes and highlands to the drier farmland in the south, and over the centuries hundreds of kilometres of them were built, often by hand, through steep and dangerous terrain. Beside each channel runs a narrow path used by the levadeiros, the workers who maintained them, and today many of these paths are walking trails.

The route is officially numbered PR 18 and is of moderate difficulty. It covers a little over five kilometres and takes around three to four hours, with the path generally level, following the course of the channel, and the main effort being the concentration needed on narrow sections. Much of the way lies under dense forest, where the canopy of laurel, tree heather, and ferns filters the light and the air is cool and humid. Moss and lichen cover rocks and trunks, and water trickles from the slopes above. The levada itself runs beside the path, a thin stream of clear water, and in places it passes through short tunnels cut in the rock, where a torch or head lamp is needed. Some stretches have steep drops beside the path, protected by a wire or wooden rail, so those who are nervous of heights should take care.

The trail rewards walkers with a waterfall and views through the trees toward the sea. In rainy periods the path can be slippery and wet, with water running across it, and waterproof clothing and shoes with a good grip are advised. Mist can reduce visibility. The route is also popular, so early morning is the quietest time. It is part of the forest recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and visitors should stay on the path and take litter away.

Getting to the start requires a car or a guided tour, since public transport is limited. A small fee may apply at the start of the trail, and conditions can change after storms or landslides, so check the status of the route before setting out.

The walk suits fit walkers, nature lovers, and photographers, and offers a good introduction to the levada tradition.