PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim
A serene levada hike on Madeira's Paul da Serra plateau, featuring lush landscapes, waterfalls, and a tranquil lagoon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene levada hike on Madeira's Paul da Serra plateau, featuring lush landscapes, waterfalls, and a tranquil lagoon.
"An absolutely stunning way to experience the natural beauty of Madeira. "
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is conveniently located and free of charge near the trailhead.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear for a comfortable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Levada Path
Along the aqueduct
Meander alongside a tranquil aqueduct through lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and refreshing waterfalls.
Cascading Waterfalls
Along the trail
Discover the beauty of cascading waterfalls that punctuate the lush landscape, offering a refreshing sight and sound.
The Final Lagoon
End of the trail
Reach the perfect reward: a beautiful lagoon and waterfall, ideal for a relaxing pause and a dip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on PR6.2
Trail Connectivity & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is conveniently located and free of charge near the trailhead.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear for a comfortable hike.
Weekly Q&A - Your Question Goes Here - Tourists
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as you'll be surrounded by nature.
🔄 Connected Trails
Explore PR6, 6.1, and 6.3 for a longer, connected hike. Plan your route based on difficulty preference.
Hikes with no tunnels?
Tips
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🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is conveniently located and free of charge near the trailhead.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear for a comfortable hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as you'll be surrounded by nature.
🔄 Connected Trails
Explore PR6, 6.1, and 6.3 for a longer, connected hike. Plan your route based on difficulty preference.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is breathtaking! Don't forget your camera to capture the lush landscapes and waterfalls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim as a stunning and accessible hike, highlighting its natural beauty with lush greenery, waterfalls, and a rewarding lagoon. It's often recommended as a peaceful alternative to more crowded trails, offering a relaxing experience for all levels. Some note that it can get busy, especially on weekends.
"This hike was a highlight of our trip, an absolutely stunning way to experience the natural beauty of Madeira. Easy to moderate, with just enough challenge to feel like an adventure, but totally accessible. The path meanders alongside an aqueduct, past lush greenery, wildflowers, and waterfalls, with sweeping views of the mountains and valleys. The final lagoon and waterfall were the perfect reward. Peaceful, scenic, and unforgettable. It was the perfect way to shake off the jet lag and get the day started."
Chris Keller
"Beautiful and easy hike that you can also adjust by turning to PR6, 6.1 and 6.3 on the way. The hiking routes are connected so you can make a circle and don’t have to go the whole way back to the starting point. I recommend to do PR6.2 and then 6.3 if you don’t like to go up, and the other way around if you like a bit of a challenge (e.g. hundreds of steps up) and then have a relaxing time at the lake and easy way back."
Kseniia Cherniak
"Free to walk around. Great easy walk (I did with teenagers). Beautiful views and interesting water features too. Got very busy on way back after lunch"
Tim Cooke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim is located on the Paul da Serra plateau. The trailhead is accessible from the ER110 road, near the Casa de Abrigo do Rabaçal. Free parking is available nearby.
Yes, the starting point is generally well-marked and accessible from the main road. Look for signs directing you to the Levada do Alecrim.
Public transport options to Paul da Serra can be limited. Renting a car is often the most convenient way to reach the trailhead.
Many visitors opt to rent a car for flexibility. The drive offers scenic views as you ascend to the plateau.
While some tours might include this levada, it's also a popular self-guided hike. It's a great alternative to more heavily touristed routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim is free. You can enjoy this beautiful hike without any admission fees.
The trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim. It's a public access trail.
While not strictly necessary, guided hikes are available if you prefer expert insights and company.
No permits are required for this hike. It's a freely accessible natural attraction.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. It's mostly flat with some gentle inclines, making it suitable for beginners and families.
The round trip is approximately 7.3 km and typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, as the path can be muddy, especially after rain. Layers are recommended as weather can change.
Restroom facilities are not typically available along the levada itself. It's advisable to use facilities before starting your hike.
Yes, the lagoon at the end of the trail is a popular spot for a refreshing dip, especially on warmer days.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Look for the lush greenery, the aqueduct, the waterfalls, and the final lagoon. The winding path also offers beautiful perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers good opportunities.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty. If you have a DSLR, bring it to capture more detail.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules before flying a drone in the area.
Expect to capture vibrant greens, flowing water, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities along the path. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear to avoid slips, especially if the ground is wet. The relatively short distance and moderate difficulty mean it's unlikely to tire out little legs too quickly, allowing for a fun and memorable family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo traveler advice: Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. While the trail is easy, it's always wise to be prepared. The connected trails offer flexibility if you feel like extending your walk or shortening it. Enjoy the peace and quiet and the opportunity for personal reflection amidst nature.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the most flattering light. Experiment with long exposures to capture the movement of the waterfalls. The winding path of the levada itself can also be used to lead the viewer's eye into the scene. Don't forget to capture the details of the unique flora and fauna you encounter.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Levada Network
The beauty of this network lies in its flexibility. You can choose to do a simple out-and-back on PR6.2, or combine it with other levadas to form a loop. For instance, some hikers recommend doing PR6.2 followed by PR6.3 for a less strenuous walk, or the reverse if you enjoy a bit more of a challenge before a relaxing finish. This adaptability allows you to tailor the hike to your fitness level and desired experience.
When planning your route, consider the terrain. While PR6.2 is generally flat and easy, other connected trails might involve more significant ascents or descents, including numerous steps. Always check trail conditions and your own capabilities before embarking on a longer, combined route.
The Natural Beauty of Paul da Serra
As you walk the PR6.2, you'll be immersed in a world of vibrant green foliage, dotted with colorful wildflowers. The clear, refreshing water of the levada flows alongside you, creating a soothing soundtrack to your hike. Keep an eye out for the various waterfalls that cascade down the slopes, adding to the picturesque setting. The air is crisp and clean, offering a welcome respite and a chance to truly connect with nature.
This hike is a fantastic way to experience the quieter side of Madeira's natural wonders. It provides a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate the island's raw, untamed beauty away from the more frequented tourist spots. The combination of the unique plateau environment and the gentle levada path makes for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
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