Levada do Norte Câmara de Lobos
Explore Madeira's iconic levadas, from vineyard paths to dramatic cliffside walks, culminating in breathtaking ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Levada do Norte Câmara de Lobos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Madeira's iconic levadas, from vineyard paths to dramatic cliffside walks, culminating in breathtaking ocean views.
"A beautiful walk through vineyards and forested areas with great views."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path can be narrow and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🔦 Bring a Torch
Some sections of the levada pass through long, dark tunnels. A flashlight is a must-have.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vineyard Terraces
Lower sections near Câmara de Lobos
Wander through picturesque vineyards and local vegetable plots, offering a glimpse into traditional Madeiran agriculture.
Cabo Girão Skywalk Views
Near the end of some routes
Experience breathtaking ocean vistas and a thrilling glass-floored platform high above the cliffs.
Remote Valley Wilderness
Mid-sections of the levada
Discover secluded valleys and lush, wild landscapes, a stark contrast to the more populated starting points.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Levada do Norte
Accessing Cabo Girão
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path can be narrow and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🔦 Bring a Torch
Some sections of the levada pass through long, dark tunnels. A flashlight is a must-have.
💧 Water for the Canal
If you're not keen on narrow cliff paths, walking in the shallow canal water is an option, but be prepared.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
Levada do Norte is long. Consider which section best suits your fitness and interests.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path can be narrow and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🔦 Bring a Torch
Some sections of the levada pass through long, dark tunnels. A flashlight is a must-have.
💧 Water for the Canal
If you're not keen on narrow cliff paths, walking in the shallow canal water is an option, but be prepared.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
Levada do Norte is long. Consider which section best suits your fitness and interests.
🚗 Taxi for Return
Buses can be infrequent, especially on weekends. A taxi from Cabo Girão to Funchal costs around 20 euros.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Levada do Norte for its stunning views, particularly the ocean panoramas and vineyard landscapes. The unique experience of walking alongside the levada channels and the thrill of the Cabo Girão Skywalk are frequently highlighted. Some find the longer routes challenging, and navigation can be tricky, with occasional issues regarding public transport frequency.
"Once up so high, it's a level walk along the waterways with alleyways to housing local veg plots and amazing terraces. It leads into more remote valleys and wilderness before returning into civilisation once more. 2 hours of walk with stunning views."
Antony Whatmore
"This was my first time doing a levada tour and it was great! At the beginning we had some difficulty locating it, cause we did not start at the very start, but some streets later. After we found it it's a pretty straightforward way through the wine yards and houses. After the villige the levada goes through some cliffs, but there was an additional path to the "dangerous" narrow part. I decided to walk on the canal, it was okay, but you have to be careful and sure-footed. This part is not long, I think about 30-40 meters. There was almost no water in the canals, so I guess if you're afraid and get dizzy you can just take your shoes off and go through the water :D
The views are very nice and I really enjoyed this walk. It was somehow difficult to find the bus from Funchal (since we did this on Saturday and there were not so many busses, also the bus stops were not signed properly). We took bus 7 to Camara de Lobos and on the way back we took a taxi from the parking spot at the Cabo Girao Skywalk. It was 20 euros to Funchal city center."
El T
"Beautiful walk with great views. The levada runs through a long dark tunnel so might be handy to have a torch."
Sarah Lynch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take bus 7 from Funchal to Câmara de Lobos. From there, you'll need to find the starting point of your chosen section of Levada do Norte. Some visitors opt for taxis or organized tours for easier access.
Yes, it's possible to hike sections of Levada do Norte that lead towards Cabo Girão. However, it's a significant distance, and you might need to combine walking with local buses or a taxi for the final ascent to the Skywalk.
Public transport to specific trailheads can be limited, especially on weekends. Bus 7 serves Câmara de Lobos, but further access points might require taxis or pre-arranged transport.
If you end your hike near Cabo Girão, a taxi to Funchal city center is a common option, costing around 20 euros. Alternatively, research local bus schedules in advance, as they can be infrequent.
Yes, many companies offer guided tours for Levada do Norte, which can simplify logistics and provide valuable insights into the levada's history and nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Levada do Norte is a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free for all visitors.
As an outdoor natural trail, Levada do Norte is accessible 24/7. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the views.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access the Cabo Girão Skywalk itself. The levada walk leading to it is free.
While the levada is continuous, access points can vary. Popular starting points include Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, but it's advisable to research specific access points beforehand.
There are no specific entry restrictions, but it's important to be mindful of the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines for trail safety.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The full Levada do Norte is very long. Most visitors hike sections, which can take anywhere from 2 hours to a full day depending on the chosen route and pace.
Some sections are relatively easy and flat, passing through vineyards. However, other parts can be narrow, exposed, or involve tunnels, so it's best to choose your route wisely if you're a beginner.
Expect stunning views of the ocean, surrounding valleys, vineyards, and lush vegetation. The Cabo Girão section offers particularly dramatic coastal panoramas.
Facilities are scarce along the levada itself. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase supplies before you start your hike.
Walking on the canal is possible but requires good balance and caution. There's often an alternative path, but if you're afraid of heights, consider this carefully.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for panoramic ocean vistas, charming vineyard landscapes, and the dramatic cliffs near Cabo Girão. The tunnels also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, while afternoons can offer warmer tones. Experiment to find what works best for you.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the beauty. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes, and a sturdy tripod might be helpful in low-light tunnel sections.
No specific photography restrictions are in place, but always be respectful of the natural environment and other hikers.
Challenges include varying light conditions (bright sun to dark tunnels), narrow paths that limit tripod use, and the need to keep your camera secure while hiking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, it's best to choose shorter, well-documented sections and avoid routes with long tunnels or very narrow cliff paths. Bringing plenty of snacks and water is crucial, as facilities are limited. Consider a guided tour that caters to families, as guides can manage safety and keep children engaged with local stories and nature facts.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Joining a guided tour can be a great way for solo travelers to meet others and gain local insights. If hiking independently, stick to marked paths and be aware of your surroundings. The experience of walking through Madeira's stunning landscapes alone can be incredibly rewarding.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for softer light. A wide-angle lens is recommended for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions in tunnels. Be prepared for varying weather, which can add dramatic flair to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Levadas
Each levada has its own character and challenges. Some are relatively flat and easy, winding through cultivated areas, while others are more rugged, involving narrow ledges, tunnels, and steep ascents. Levada do Norte is one of the longest, offering a variety of experiences depending on the section you choose to hike. It's crucial to research specific levadas and their conditions before setting out.
When hiking a levada, always be prepared for changing weather conditions, wear appropriate footwear, and carry water and snacks. The experience of walking alongside these ancient water channels, surrounded by Madeira's natural beauty, is truly unforgettable.
The Journey to Cabo Girão
For those hiking Levada do Norte, certain routes can lead towards the vicinity of Cabo Girão. However, reaching the Skywalk itself might require a final ascent. A common strategy for visitors without a car is to take a bus to Câmara de Lobos and then arrange a taxi to take them up to Cabo Girão. This taxi ride can cost around 20 euros.
The Skywalk offers unparalleled panoramic views of the coastline, the Atlantic Ocean, and the fajãs (small cultivated plots) below. It's a popular spot for both its natural beauty and the adrenaline rush it provides. Be aware that there is an entrance fee to access the Skywalk platform.
Safety and Preparation for Levada Walks
Always carry sufficient water and snacks, as facilities are often non-existent along the trails. A basic first-aid kit is also advisable. For levadas that pass through tunnels, such as parts of Levada do Norte, a reliable torch or headlamp is indispensable.
Inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in Madeira's mountainous terrain. If you're unsure about navigation or the trail's difficulty, consider hiring a local guide or joining an organized tour.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit