Levada dos Cedros

The Levada dos Cedros is one of Madeira’s enchanting walks, situated in the northern part of the island. It offers a less traveled path compared to the more popular levadas, allowing for a serene and intimate experience with Madeira’s lush landscapes. This levada takes its visitors through the heart of the ancient Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the island’s rich biodiversity and the tranquil beauty of its natural ecosystems.

Levada dos Cedros Trail Overview

• Location: The trail is located in the Fanal area, known for its ancient and majestic laurel trees.
• Distance: The walk covers a distance of about 5.8 kilometers one way.
• Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
• Difficulty: Moderate. The path is generally well-maintained, but like many levada walks, it can have narrow sections with steep drops on one side.

Highlights of the Levada dos Cedros

• Laurisilva Forest: The trail offers an immersive experience in one of the best-preserved laurel forests in the world. The dense greenery, the moss-covered trees, and the sound of running water create a magical atmosphere.
• Indigenous Flora and Fauna: The area is rich in endemic species, providing opportunities to observe unique birds, plants, and insects that call this forest their home.
• Waterfalls and Streams: Along the route, small waterfalls and streams intersect the path, adding to the charm of the hike and offering refreshing stops.
• Panoramic Views: There are spots along the trail where the trees open up to reveal stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

Preparation and Safety Tips

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential, as the path can be slippery, especially after rain.
• Clothing: Weather in Madeira can change rapidly, so wear layers and bring waterproof gear.
• Water and Snacks: There are no facilities along the trail, so bring enough water and snacks to sustain you.
• Stay on the Path: To ensure your safety and to protect the environment, always stay on the marked path.

Best Time to Visit Levada dos Cedros

The Levada dos Cedros can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to Madeira’s mild climate. However, the best times to hike are in spring and autumn when the temperatures are more comfortable, and the risk of heavy rain is lower.

Embarking on a hike along the Levada dos Cedros is an opportunity to step back in time and experience the primeval beauty of Madeira’s Laurisilva forest. It’s a journey that soothes the soul, enriches the mind, and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

It appears the information provided on the PR 14 – Levada dos Cedros page mainly focuses on guidance for reaching the starting point of the trail from Porto Moniz, rather than detailing the specifics of the trail itself. The content emphasizes navigational instructions from the center of Porto Moniz village to the trail’s commencement, suggesting that visitors can modify the starting point based on their location to get personalized directions.

While the specific details about the trail’s length, difficulty, and key attractions are not provided in the content received, Levada dos Cedros typically offers an immersive experience in Madeira’s lush landscapes. Hikers can expect a journey through the ancient Laurisilva forests, characterized by a variety of endemic flora and fauna, serene watercourses, and occasional panoramic vistas that showcase the island’s rugged beauty.

For an enriching hike along the Levada dos Cedros, it’s advisable to prepare accordingly:

• Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
• Carry sufficient water and snacks, as there might be limited access to facilities along the route.
• Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions, and consider bringing rain gear.
• A flashlight might be helpful if the trail includes tunnels or shaded, darker sections.

Hiking the Levada dos Cedros is an opportunity to connect with the natural world, offering a peaceful retreat into one of Madeira’s most breathtaking environments. For anyone seeking to explore the heart of the island’s Laurisilva forest, this trail promises a memorable adventure amidst the tranquility of nature.

Distance: 7.2 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3 hours
Start/End: E.R 209 (Fanal) / E.R 209 (Curral Falso)
Max. Altitude / Min. Altitude: 1090 m / 840 m

Travel Guide

Embarking on the PR14 trail from Fanal towards Curral Falso offers a truly immersive experience in one of Madeira’s most pristine environments—the ancient Laurisilva forest. This journey encapsulates the essence of Madeira’s natural beauty, highlighting the importance of preserving these landscapes.

Journey Overview

• Starting Point: Fanal, a place renowned for its ancient trees and misty landscapes, providing a mystical and serene setting that feels like stepping into another world.
• Route to Madre da Levada: A 6 km trek on level ground through the Laurisilva forest, allowing you to appreciate the untouched beauty of very old trees and the rich biodiversity that thrives in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Climb to Overcome the Altitude Gap: After reaching Madre da Levada, the route presents a challenging ascent of 1,031 steps to overcome a 240-meter altitude gap, leading towards the completion of the PR14 route. This segment of the trail not only tests your physical stamina but also rewards you with stunning views and a profound sense of accomplishment.
• Return Journey: The return to the starting point involves a 4 km walk along the road, offering a time to reflect on the natural wonders witnessed and the journey undertaken.

Experience and Insights

• Primitive Environment: The walk through the Laurisilva forest offers a glimpse into a primitive and almost untouched environment, where the silence is broken only by the sounds of nature. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and connect deeply with nature.
• Physical Challenge: The significant number of steps and the climb to overcome the altitude gap present a physical challenge that adds to the adventure’s appeal. It’s a reminder of the island’s varied topography and the effort needed to traverse its landscapes.
• Reflection and Return: The return journey along the road provides a moment to reflect on the experience, the beauty of the Laurisilva forest, and the physical challenges overcome. It’s a time to appreciate the simplicity of walking and the beauty that surrounds you on Madeira Island.

This trek offers not just a hiking experience but a journey that connects you with the history of the earth, visible in the ancient trees and the untouched forest. It’s a testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of preserving these natural habitats for future generations to marvel at and enjoy.

For anyone planning to embark on this or similar trails in Madeira, remember to prepare adequately with appropriate gear, sufficient water, and snacks, and always respect the natural environment you’re exploring. If you’re sharing this journey with others, it’s a beautiful opportunity to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the wonders it holds.