Levada do Norte São Vicente Madeira
Explore Madeira's dramatic north coast and lush levada trails near São Vicente, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and adventurous tunnel hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Levada do Norte São Vicente Madeira
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Madeira's dramatic north coast and lush levada trails near São Vicente, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and adventurous tunnel hikes.
"Spectacular views to the south along the valley towards Ribeira Brava and east towards the Curral das Freiras mountain range."
🔦 Bring a Good Flashlight
Essential for navigating the many tunnels on levada walks. Some can be quite long and dark.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Even easy levadas can be wet and slippery in tunnels. Waterproof and good-grip shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Levada do Norte Views
East of Encumeada
Spectacular southern valley views towards Ribeira Brava and the Curral das Freiras mountains. Lush laurel plants abound.
São Vicente's Mountain Vistas
São Vicente
Breathtaking mountain valleys with towering peaks and lush greenery, offering dreamlike vistas.
Ribeira da Janela Coastal Scenery
Ribeira da Janela
Experience a walk on the wild side with dramatic coastal landscapes and untamed nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Tunnels with Confidence
Check Trail Status Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Good Flashlight
Essential for navigating the many tunnels on levada walks. Some can be quite long and dark.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Even easy levadas can be wet and slippery in tunnels. Waterproof and good-grip shoes are a must.
⚠️ Check Trail Closures
Parts of Levada do Norte may be closed for maintenance. Verify status before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Westward Levada
If the eastern Levada do Norte is closed, try the PR17 trail west or the 'Levada das Rabacas'.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Good Flashlight
Essential for navigating the many tunnels on levada walks. Some can be quite long and dark.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Even easy levadas can be wet and slippery in tunnels. Waterproof and good-grip shoes are a must.
⚠️ Check Trail Closures
Parts of Levada do Norte may be closed for maintenance. Verify status before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Westward Levada
If the eastern Levada do Norte is closed, try the PR17 trail west or the 'Levada das Rabacas'.
📸 Capture Epic Vistas
Madeira offers stunning landscapes. Don't forget your camera for the incredible mountain and coastal views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular views and lush greenery found along the Levada do Norte and in the São Vicente region. The unique experience of hiking through tunnels is a highlight for many, though it requires preparation. Some sections may be closed for maintenance, which can be a minor disappointment.
"Following the Levada do Norte to the east from Encumeada will take you along a scenic route towards the end station where the water is piped down the valley to generate electricity and provide water. There are spectacular views to the south along the valley towards Ribeira Brava and east towards the Curral das Freiras mountain range."
Chris Szabo
"I'm a little lost here, but there are a lot of beautiful laurel plants."
Julia
"Great view"
אייל אהרון
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Levada do Norte is often via the Encumeada pass. From there, you can follow the levada east or west. Driving is the most common way to reach trailheads in Madeira.
Public transport options to trailheads can be limited. Renting a car or booking a guided tour is often more convenient for reaching specific levada starting points like those near São Vicente.
The roads around São Vicente are known for being beautiful and scenic, offering stunning views as you drive. +1
Yes, the Levada do Norte offers views towards Ribeira Brava when hiking east from Encumeada.
Many tour operators offer guided hikes on Madeira's levadas, including routes near São Vicente. This can be a great option if you prefer not to navigate or hike alone.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Levada walks in Madeira are generally free to access. There are no specific tickets required for entry to the trails themselves.
Levada trails are natural paths and are accessible at all times. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
São Vicente itself, as a town and region, does not have entrance fees. Access to natural attractions like viewpoints and hiking trails is typically free.
Yes, Madeira's climate allows for year-round hiking. However, weather can change rapidly, so always check forecasts.
No booking is required for the levada walks themselves. It's advisable to start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Levada do Norte is generally considered an easy levada walk, but good shoes are still recommended due to potentially wet and slippery tunnel sections.
The duration depends on the section you hike and your pace. Hiking east from Encumeada for about 10 minutes is possible before potential closures. Exploring other levadas like PR17 can take several hours.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, and bring layers as the weather can change. Waterproof gear is advisable due to potential tunnel moisture.
Yes, some levada walks, including those in the São Vicente area, feature multiple tunnels, some of which can be quite long. A reliable flashlight is essential.
Expect lush laurel forests, spectacular valley views towards the south and east, and potentially dramatic coastal scenery depending on the specific route.
📸 📸 Photography
São Vicente offers stunning mountain vistas and lush valleys. Ribeira da Janela provides dramatic coastal shots, and viewpoints like Miradouro Eira do Serrado offer panoramic scenes. +2
While tunnels can be dark, with a good flashlight and caution, you can capture unique shots. Be mindful of other hikers and the slippery conditions.
Mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the lush greenery and dramatic landscapes.
Yes, viewpoints like Miradouro Eira do Serrado and Miradouro do Véu da Noiva offer incredible photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions in tunnels, but consider its portability for hiking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for trails that offer interesting natural features, like unique rock formations or accessible viewpoints. Always prioritize safety, ensure children have appropriate footwear, and carry plenty of water and snacks. The scenic drives around São Vicente can also be a great way to experience the island's beauty with younger children.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
For those who enjoy a thrill, tackling longer levada hikes with multiple tunnels, like the PR9 Caldeirão Verde, offers a rewarding challenge. The raw, untamed beauty of the north coast, with its volcanic formations and powerful ocean, also appeals to the adventurous spirit.
📸 Photographers
Golden hour light can transform the landscapes, so consider early mornings or late afternoons for the best photographic conditions. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the grand scale of the scenery, while a good flashlight is essential for those atmospheric tunnel shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Madeira's Levada Network
Many levadas, like the Levada do Norte, involve walking alongside these water channels, often through tunnels carved into the mountainside. This unique feature adds an element of adventure to the hikes. Popular levada walks include Levada das 25 Fontes, Levada do Risco, and the challenging PR9 Caldeirão Verde.
When planning a levada hike, it's crucial to be prepared. Always wear appropriate footwear, carry a reliable flashlight for tunnels, and check the weather conditions. Some levadas can be challenging, while others are more accessible, catering to various fitness levels.
The Charm of São Vicente
The region is characterized by its towering peaks, verdant valleys, and rugged coastline, offering a more wild and untamed side of Madeira. Visitors can explore scenic drives, discover hidden waterfalls, and experience the tranquility of this less-touristed part of the island. The São Vicente valley itself is a breathtaking sight, often described as looking like something out of a dream.
São Vicente is also a great base for exploring the island's hiking trails, including various levadas and mountain routes. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to soak in the natural beauty, São Vicente provides an unforgettable backdrop for your Madeira exploration.
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