PR20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar Madeira
A dramatic, often challenging coastal hike in Madeira, offering stunning ocean views and a rewarding descent to a charming village.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoids slippery conditions
PR20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar Madeira
Best Time
Avoids slippery conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic, often challenging coastal hike in Madeira, offering stunning ocean views and a rewarding descent to a charming village.
"Beautiful route, technically closed but passable with proper shoes and caution."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating loose stones, wet patches, and steep terrain. Protect your ankles!
⬇️ Hike Downhill Only
Going from Prazeres to Jardim do Mar is recommended to save your legs.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 164 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Coastal Views
Breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline unfold along this scenic route.
Charming Jardim do Mar
The picturesque village at the end of the trail offers a rewarding stop with local cafes.
Challenging Descent
A steep, rocky path that tests your legs and offers a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Trail Status & Safety
Best Approach & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating loose stones, wet patches, and steep terrain. Protect your ankles!
⬇️ Hike Downhill Only
Going from Prazeres to Jardim do Mar is recommended to save your legs.
⚠️ Be Aware of Hazards
Watch for missing railings, thorny plants, and slippery sections. Safety first!
☀️ Check Weather
Only attempt on a clear, dry day to minimize risks of slips and falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating loose stones, wet patches, and steep terrain. Protect your ankles!
⬇️ Hike Downhill Only
Going from Prazeres to Jardim do Mar is recommended to save your legs.
⚠️ Be Aware of Hazards
Watch for missing railings, thorny plants, and slippery sections. Safety first!
☀️ Check Weather
Only attempt on a clear, dry day to minimize risks of slips and falls.
💧 Path Can Be Wet
Expect streaming water over the path in several places. Waterproof gear might be useful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This trail offers stunning, dramatic coastal views but comes with significant challenges. While often passable despite being closed, hikers must be prepared for rough terrain, missing safety features, and the need for good fitness and proper gear. The downhill route from Prazeres to Jardim do Mar is highly recommended for a more manageable experience.
"Beautiful route - technically closed but is still passable. There are bits of the track covered in water, bits where rocks have fallen, and parts where the side railing isn’t there. However, all fine and beautiful if you have proper shoes, it is a dry day, and you are happy navigating steep rocky sections. I’d never do it up though, nor in the middle of a hot day!"
C C
"This trek should be closed and it should be marked properly. The railing is missing in some places, there are plants on the trek and some of them have thorns and catch the clothes and scratch the skin painfully. If you really want to go: wear proper shoes and clothes to protect yourself, only go down, not up and make sure the weather is nice to avoid slippery Stones and mud."
Koperek
"The views are nice but going down hill it is very taxing on the legs. Path in general is good but narrow and at several places wet with streaming water over the path. Good shoes are required and good level of fitness. Not for people who are afraid of heights😉
At the end of the trail (if you go down), lovely little town and good bar /Cafe on the route further down to the sea if you want to do that."
Wim Gardien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is typically accessed from Prazeres. Many visitors hitchhike to Prazeres from Calheta to begin the downhill hike. Alternatively, consider arranging a taxi or private transfer.
Parking can be limited at the trailhead in Prazeres. Hitchhiking or using local transport is often more convenient for a one-way hike.
Some suggest combining PR20 with PR19, but this is only feasible at low tide due to coastal access.
Hitchhiking from Jardim do Mar back to Calheta is a common and effective method for returning.
Public transport options directly to the trailhead might be infrequent. Hitchhiking or pre-arranged transport is more reliable for this route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for this trail, as it is a public hiking route. However, be aware of its 'closed' status.
Despite signs indicating it's closed, many hikers find it passable. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
As an outdoor trail, there are no set operating hours. However, it's best to hike during daylight for safety.
There are no entrance fees associated with hiking the PR20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar.
Official information can be scarce. Rely on recent traveler reports and exercise your own judgment regarding safety.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
This is a moderately difficult hike due to steep descents, loose rocks, and uneven terrain. A good level of fitness is mandatory.
The downhill hike from Prazeres to Jardim do Mar can take around 50 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are highly recommended due to the rocky and potentially wet path.
There are no facilities directly on the trail itself. You'll find amenities in Jardim do Mar at the end.
No, this trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights due to exposed sections and steep drops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, at the end of the trail in Jardim do Mar, you'll find a lovely town with good bars and cafes to refuel.
It's advisable to bring water and snacks, especially if you're hiking during warmer parts of the day.
Jardim do Mar offers typical Madeiran cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood and local specialties.
While Prazeres is a starting point, dining options might be more limited there compared to Jardim do Mar.
There are no designated picnic spots on the trail itself. It's best to enjoy a meal in Jardim do Mar after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic coastal cliffs, expansive ocean views, and the charming village of Jardim do Mar offer stunning photographic moments.
Be extremely cautious when taking photos, especially near the edges or on steep sections. Prioritize your safety.
Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the dramatic coastal scenery, but always consider safety.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A secure camera strap is also advisable.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check local rules before flying, and be mindful of other hikers and the environment.
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