View over Funchal from walk
1 / 10

Levada dos Tornos Monte

4.4
·187 reviews·Funchal, Portugal

A gentle levada hike through Madeira's forests, featuring a historic canal and the delightful Jasmine Tea House. Perfect for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
View over Funchal from walk

Levada dos Tornos Monte

Best Time

Mornings

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A gentle levada hike through Madeira's forests, featuring a historic canal and the delightful Jasmine Tea House. Perfect for all ages.

4.4
(187 reviews)

"Easy and kid-friendly walk along the canal through the forest with a charming tea house at the end."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Map Your Route

Signage can be inconsistent; carry a map or use GPS for navigation.

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Canal Path

The Canal Path

Along the Levada

A serene walk beside the historic water channel, surrounded by lush forest. Keep an eye out for fish!

Interesting Bridge

Interesting Bridge

Mid-way section

A unique bridge offers a fun photo opportunity and a slight thrill for hikers.

Jasmine Tea House

Jasmine Tea House

Near Camacha

A charming stop for delicious tea and apple pie after your hike. Highly recommended!

Forest Scenery

Forest Scenery

Throughout the trail

Experience the tranquility of Madeira's forests, with some sections showing signs of past fires but still beautiful.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Levada dos Tornos Monte

Signage can be tricky on this levada, so a good map or GPS is recommended. Consider how far you want to hike, as it stretches between Funchal and Santo da Serra. Many opt for a shorter out-and-back to enjoy the forest and canal views.

Post-Hike Delights & Transport

The Jasmine Tea House is a popular spot for refreshments at the end of a walk, offering delicious treats. Planning your return transport is key, as taxis or ride-shares might not be readily available from all trailheads. Buses are often a reliable option.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy the tea house
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

1. Miradouro do Cristo Rei 2. Funchal 3. Pico do Ariero 4. Miradouro do cabo girão 5. Cascata dos anjos 6. Levada des 25 fontaines 7. Ponta da Tristao 8. Posto Florestal do Fanal 9. Ribeira da Janela 10. Praia do Porto do Seixal 11. Caldeirão Verde 12. Miradouro do guindaste 13. Ponta de São Lourenço #madeira #visitmadeira #traveltiktok #traveldestinations #travel #fyp
@roemer_productions
54.5K likes • 788.1K views

🗺️ Map Your Route

Signage can be inconsistent; carry a map or use GPS for navigation. TikTok

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Reddit

Yesterday we hiked a section of Levada dos Tornos between Funchal and Camacha (you can hike all the way to Santo da Serra or the other way to Monte), it’s a bit complicated with bad signage and not great maps but it’s a nice walk with a interesting bridge halfway through, would you cross it? #madeira #madeiralikes #madeirahiking #madeirahikes #madeiraisland #adventurelandmadeira #hiking #hikes hi...
portugalfoodies
15 likes • 1.7K views

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Essential for longer hikes, though tea houses offer refreshments. Reddit

🚌 Bus is Best

Catching the bus to and from the trailheads is often the easiest transport. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Map Your Route

Signage can be inconsistent; carry a map or use GPS for navigation. TikTok

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Essential for longer hikes, though tea houses offer refreshments. Reddit

🚌 Bus is Best

Catching the bus to and from the trailheads is often the easiest transport. Reddit

🐠 Spot the Fish

Look closely in the canal for shy fish – a fun challenge! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(187 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Levada dos Tornos Monte is praised as an easy, kid-friendly hike with beautiful forest scenery and the charming Jasmine Tea House. While generally accessible, some sections can be slippery and have steep drops, and signage can be inconsistent. Planning transport and footwear is recommended.

"This is a nice and easy kid friendly walk along the canal through the forest and you can choose how long you want to walk for. We came by car and walked for less than two hours along the canal and contour path on the level all the way. We ended at Jasmin Cafe which is well worth a visit. There wasn’t a bus directly from Jasmin cafe back to the start of the trail where we parked our car and we couldn’t get a Bolt. We saw buses going past each time we crossed the road during the walk so I reckon catching a bus to and from the walk would have worked best. For fun see if you can spot a fish in the canal. We saw two. They are very shy 😁"

Robin Philip

"Quite easy and nice hiking tour. Perfect way to see the Levada and at the end to enjoy the gorgeous view from the hill."

Dmitry Z

"Our third levada in Madeira and very easy but sometimes creepy. We did it in January 2022, and we were unaware of the fact that the particular region was affected by fires in the past. For example, we saw many trees of suboptimal quality and a fair number of abandoned houses. That said, the most enjoyable moment was the tea house at the end of the levada. We took lemon tea with apple pie, and both were amazing! Definitely a recommended levada for beginners."

Povilas Godliauskas

What People Like

Easy and kid-friendly
Beautiful forest walks
Jasmine Tea House

What People Dislike

Inconsistent signage
Slippery/muddy paths
Steep drop-offs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can access Levada dos Tornos Monte from various points. Many hikers take bus 29 from Funchal to the end of the line and start there, or use bus 47 near the Hortensian Gardens. Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited. Reddit

Signage can be a bit confusing, so it's advisable to have a map or use a GPS app. Some sections might require a bit of searching to find the exact path. TikTok

Yes, it's possible to hike sections between Funchal and Camacha, and then continue towards Monte. However, the path after the Levada officially stops can become more challenging with fallen trees and scrambling. Reddit

The Jasmine Tea House is a popular endpoint, and buses often run from nearby. Some reviewers found it difficult to get a taxi or ride-share from certain points, so checking bus routes beforehand is recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! Buses like the 29 and 47 are frequently mentioned as good options for accessing and returning from the levada, making it accessible without a car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Levada dos Tornos Monte is a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance ticket. You can access it freely. TikTok

As an outdoor trail, Levada dos Tornos Monte is accessible at any time. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Reddit

There is no admission fee for hiking Levada dos Tornos Monte. It's a natural trail open to everyone. TikTok

While technically accessible, hiking at night is not recommended due to potential hazards, poor visibility, and lack of signage. Stick to daylight hours for a safer experience. Reddit

No booking is required for Levada dos Tornos Monte. It's a free, open-access hiking trail. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

This levada is generally considered easy and kid-friendly for much of its length, perfect for beginners. However, some sections, especially closer to Monte, can become more challenging with uneven terrain and obstacles. Reddit

The duration depends on how far you choose to walk. Many visitors opt for a 1-2 hour out-and-back hike, while completing longer sections can take several hours. Reddit

You'll experience beautiful forest landscapes, walk alongside a historic water canal, and enjoy views of the surrounding hills and Funchal. Some areas show remnants of past fires. TikTokReddit

While mostly easy, some sections can have steep drops of several hundred feet, and the path can be wet and slippery. Be cautious, especially after rain or if you venture onto less maintained parts. Reddit

Yes, many parts of the levada are very kid-friendly, offering a gentle walk along the canal through the forest. Just be mindful of any steeper drop-offs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Jasmine Tea House is a highly recommended spot located conveniently near the trail, offering delicious tea and apple pie. Reddit

While the trail itself doesn't have restaurants, the Jasmine Tea House is a popular destination at one end. Other dining options are available in nearby towns like Camacha. Reddit

Reviewers rave about the lemon tea and apple pie at the Jasmine Tea House, calling them amazing and a perfect post-hike treat. Reddit

Yes, it's always a good idea to bring water and snacks, especially for longer hikes. There are no restrictions on picnicking along the trail. Reddit

The Jasmine Tea House is a notable cafe at one end. Other small cafes might be found in the villages near the access points, but it's best to check in advance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the serene canal, the lush forest canopy, unique bridges, and panoramic views of Funchal. The Jasmine Tea House also makes for charming photos. TikTok

For the most part, yes. The path is relatively wide in many sections. However, be mindful of slippery surfaces and steep drops when focusing on your shot. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the forest's atmosphere. Late afternoon can offer softer light and potentially golden hour views over Funchal. TikTok

The interesting bridge halfway through a section is a popular photo spot. Also, look for the man-made waterfall near Monte for dramatic shots. TikTokReddit

A smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive forest, and a polarizing filter can help with reflections on the water. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Levada dos Tornos Monte is a fantastic choice for families. Much of the trail follows a gentle, level path alongside the water canal, making it easy for little legs to manage. The surrounding forest provides a magical setting for children to explore, and spotting fish in the canal is a fun activity. Reddit

While most of the levada is safe, parents should be mindful of sections with steeper drop-offs. It's advisable to keep a close eye on children, especially near the edges. The Jasmine Tea House is also a great spot for a family treat after the hike. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

This levada hike is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers as it's a free, public trail with no entrance fees. TikTok The main cost will be transportation to and from the trailhead. Opting for the local buses, which are frequently mentioned as a viable option, is the most economical way to get around. Reddit

Packing your own water and snacks will also save money. While the Jasmine Tea House is a worthwhile indulgence, you can easily enjoy the natural beauty without spending extra on food if you're on a tight budget. Reddit

🌿 Nature Lovers

For those who appreciate natural beauty, Levada dos Tornos Monte offers a serene escape. You'll be immersed in Madeira's lush forests, with the constant, soothing sound of flowing water from the levada. It's a chance to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the island's flora and fauna. TikTok

Keep an eye out for the diverse plant life and, if you're lucky, you might spot some of the shy fish in the canal. Even areas showing signs of past fires still possess a unique, resilient beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Levadas: Madeira's Waterways

Levadas are unique irrigation channels found across Madeira, and Levada dos Tornos Monte is one of them. These channels were ingeniously built to transport water from the wetter north of the island to the drier south, supporting agriculture. Hiking along a levada means following these historic waterways, often through stunning natural landscapes.

The paths alongside the levadas were originally maintained by workers, and many of these paths are now popular hiking trails. They offer a unique perspective on Madeira's geography and its relationship with water. While some levadas are challenging, Levada dos Tornos Monte is known for being relatively accessible, making it a great introduction to Madeira's levada system. TikTok

When hiking a levada, you'll often find yourself immersed in lush forests, passing by waterfalls, and enjoying the gentle sound of flowing water. It's a truly immersive experience that connects you with the island's natural beauty and its historical ingenuity. Remember to always stay on the marked paths and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Navigating Levada dos Tornos Monte: Tips from the Trail

Many hikers on Levada dos Tornos Monte mention that signage can be inconsistent, making it crucial to have a reliable map or GPS device. Some sections are well-marked, while others can leave you wondering which way to go. Planning your route beforehand and knowing your turnaround point is highly recommended. TikTok

Footwear is key for this hike. The paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip will make your experience much safer and more comfortable. Be prepared for varying terrain, from smooth paths to areas with fallen trees and scrambling. Reddit

For those looking to extend their hike or explore further, be aware that the path can become more challenging beyond the main, well-trodden sections. Some reviewers note that the trail towards Monte can involve more difficult terrain, including fallen trees and steeper ascents. Reddit

The Charm of the Jasmine Tea House

A recurring highlight for visitors to Levada dos Tornos Monte is the Jasmine Tea House. Located conveniently near one of the popular endpoints of the hike, it's become a beloved spot for hikers to relax and refuel. Reddit

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious refreshments available, with the lemon tea and apple pie being standout recommendations. It's described as a charming and welcoming place, offering a perfect reward after a walk through the Madeiran countryside. Reddit

Visiting the Jasmine Tea House is often cited as a must-do experience when hiking this levada. It provides a delightful cultural and culinary interlude, adding another layer of enjoyment to the overall visit. Reddit

You may also like