PR 4 – Levada do Barreiro
The High Plateau Walk
Distance
5.2 km (One Way)
Duration
2h
Difficulty
Moderate
Status
⚠️ Partially Open
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This is a hidden gem for solitude. It sits between the busy Pico Areeiro and the Ecological Park but sees very few tourists. Great for a peaceful picnic.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Levada do Barreiro?
The PR 4 – Levada do Barreiro offers a unique perspective of the southern slopes of the island. It runs at a high altitude (approx 1600m) through the endemic high-altitude heath (Urze and Carqueja).
On clear days, you get sweeping views over Funchal and the Desertas Islands in the distance, framed by the rugged purple and yellow flowers of the plateau.
Trail Map
From Poço da Neve to Casa do Barreiro.
Step-by-Step Guide
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1
Poço da Neve (Start)
Park near the stone “Snow Well” igloo on the road to Pico Areeiro. The trail starts just across the road.
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2
The Plateau Walk
The path follows the levada channel. It is mostly flat but can be narrow with bushes scratching your legs.
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3
Miradouro do Barreiro
You reach a natural viewpoint looking down into the deep Ribeira de Santa Luzia valley.
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4
Return or Continue
Most hikers turn back here. Continuing requires navigating steeper, less maintained paths down towards Monte.
📸 Best Photo Spots
The starting point itself is a photogenic historical landmark. Capture the symmetry of the stone dome.
In spring, the path is lined with bright yellow gorse/broom flowers contrasting against the blue sky.
Several breaks in the vegetation offer a unique angle looking directly down onto the capital city.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
Drive up towards Pico do Arieiro. About 1.5km before the peak, you will see the **Poço da Neve** on your left. Park on the side of the road.
🛑 No Public Transport
There are no buses to Poço da Neve. You must rent a car or take a taxi from Funchal (approx €25).
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 High Mountain Road
Easy paved access.
Our Rental Recommendation: Since you are driving almost to the top of the island, a car with a solid engine is preferred. However, as the road is fully paved and wide, any car from This is Madeira Island will manage it fine.
Essential Gear
- Long Pants: The vegetation (heather) often encroaches on the path and can scratch bare legs.
- Sunscreen: High UV exposure at 1600m altitude.
- Water: There are no cafes or taps on this route.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Casa de Abrigo do Poiso
Since there is nothing on the trail, drive back down to the Poiso junction. It is the perfect place to warm up with a soup or coffee after the windy plateau walk.
