Discovering Levada do Rei
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Discovering Levada do Rei

5.3km hike to a 300-year-old water mill

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €35

Day 1: Levada do Rei Hike & São Jorge Village

A full-day exploration of the Laurissilva forest via the PR 18 Levada do Rei trail, starting from the Quebradas Water Treatment Plant. The day includes the 5.3km one-way hike to Ribeiro Bonito, visiting the historic water mill, and exploring the charming village of São Jorge. Note: As there are no food or drink vendors on the trail, a packed lunch is essential.

  • 09:00

    Arrival at Trailhead

    Arrive at the Quebradas Water Treatment Plant parking area. This is the official start point for PR 18. Ensure you have purchased your €4.50 entry fee via the SIMplifica portal beforehand or pay at the kiosk if available.

  • 09:30

    Hike Levada do Rei (PR 18)

    Begin the moderate-difficulty 5.3km one-way hike. The trail winds through exotic forests and agricultural landscapes. You will pass the only still-operating three-century-old water mill in São Jorge. The path is well-marked but requires attention to slippery sections. Hike at a moderate pace to reach Ribeiro Bonito.

  • 12:30

    Picnic Lunch at Ribeiro Bonito

    Ribeiro Bonito is a natural sanctuary within the Laurissilva forest. Since there are no shops on the trail, enjoy the packed lunch you brought from the start. This is a perfect spot for rest and soaking in the serene forest atmosphere.

  • 13:30

    Return Hike to Quebradas

    Hike back along the same trail to the Quebradas Water Treatment Plant. The return journey is 5.3km. Take your time to enjoy the changing light in the forest.

  • 15:30

    Drive to São Jorge Village

    Drive approximately 10-15 minutes from Quebradas to the village of São Jorge. Park near the center to explore the traditional architecture.

  • 16:30

    Explore São Jorge Village

    Stroll through the small parish of São Jorge. Admire the traditional Madeiran houses, the local church, and the village square. It offers a glimpse into rural Madeiran life.

  • 18:00

    Dinner in São Jorge

    Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant in São Jorge. Look for local specialties such as Espetada (beef skewers) or Black Scabbard Fish (Espada with banana).

Meals: Lunch at Ribeiro Bonito (Picnic) , Dinner at São Jorge Village

Where to stay: Stay in São Jorge or nearby Santana for easy access to the trailhead. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.

Getting around: A car is highly recommended to reach the Quebradas Water Treatment Plant and the village of São Jorge. Public transport is limited and may not align with trailhead schedules.

Practical Information

The Levada do Rei (PR 18) is located in São Jorge, on the northern coast of Madeira. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and rainfall is lower. Summer months can be hot and crowded, while winter brings higher chances of rain and slippery trail conditions. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as sudden fog or rain can reduce visibility and make the path hazardous. Getting to the trailhead requires planning. The hike begins at the Quebradas Water Treatment Plant, located on the outskirts of São Jorge village. Public buses do not typically stop directly at the trailhead, so renting a car is the most practical option for independent travelers. If using public transport, you can take a bus to São Jorge and then arrange a taxi or local transport to the specific starting point. Once on the trail, there is no public transport available; it is a self-guided walk. For accommodation, staying in São Jorge or the nearby town of Santana is ideal due to their proximity to the trail. These areas offer a range of options from guesthouses to hotels. If you prefer a more rural experience, consider staying in a local *quinta* (farmhouse) in the surrounding hills. Budget-wise, the hike itself is free, but there is a €4.50 entry fee for visitors over 12 years old, payable via the SIMplifica portal. This fee supports the maintenance of the levada system. You should budget separately for transportation, as there are no included costs for getting to the start point. Additionally, since there are no shops, cafes, or facilities along the trail, you must bring all your own food and water. A small shop and cafe are available at the start, but options are limited. Pack sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the path can be muddy and uneven. Bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person and high-energy snacks, as there are no refreshment stops. Wear layers, as weather in Madeira can change rapidly. A rain jacket is essential, even in summer. Finally, ensure you have a charged phone for navigation and emergency contact, though signal may be weak in some forested sections.

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