PR 19 – Caminho Real do Paul do Mar

The Waterfall Descent to the Ocean

Distance

1.8 km (One Way)

Duration

1h (Down)

Difficulty

Moderate

Status

✅ OPEN

🦵 KNEE CRUSHER WARNING This trail is short (1.8km) but descends 550m in altitude. It is a continuous steep staircase of stone. If you have bad knees, do not attempt this hike. Walking poles are highly recommended.

🕐 Best Time to Visit

Morning

Cool

Mid-Day

Hot

Sunset

Golden

💡 Pro Tip: This trail faces West. Hiking down during Sunset (Golden Hour) offers spectacular views of the sun dipping into the ocean, bathing the cliffs in orange light. Just bring a headlamp for the last bit!

⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating

Vertigo Risk Medium 🟠

Physical Effort Medium (Down) 🟠

Path Surface Stone Steps 🟠

Slippery High (If Wet) 🔴

Why Hike Caminho Real do Paul do Mar?

The PR 19 is a historic “Royal Path” that was the only access to the fishing village of Paul do Mar before the roads were built.

It zig-zags down a massive vertical cliff face. You walk past terraced farm plots (poios) and often encounter waterfalls that spill directly onto the path. The views of the ocean are constant and breathtaking.

Trail Map

From Prazeres (Top) to Paul do Mar (Bottom).

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Prazeres (Start)

Start near the Hotel Jardim do Atlântico in Prazeres. The trail begins at the cliff edge with a stunning viewpoint.
2

The Zig-Zags

The path descends steeply via switchbacks. The stone paving is ancient and polished. Watch your footing.
3

The Waterfall

Halfway down, the path crosses a stream. In winter or after rain, this becomes a beautiful waterfall cascading down the cliff.
4

Paul do Mar (Finish)

You arrive at the top of the village, passing through banana plantations. The trail ends near the harbour and the famous “Maktub” bar.

📸 Best Photo Spots

🌊 The Overview

From the start at Prazeres, you can photograph the entire village of Paul do Mar spread out like a map below you.

🪜 The Stone Path

Capture the geometric zig-zag pattern of the ancient stone walls winding down the green cliff face.

🌅 Sunset Silhouette

As you descend, the sun sets directly in front of you. Great for silhouette shots of hikers against the glittering ocean.

Facilities & Amenities

🚌 Bus No. 80/142

☕ Cafe Start & End

🚻 Toilets None on Trail

🅿️ Parking Easy (Prazeres)

How to Get There

Drive to Prazeres and head towards the “Hotel Jardim do Atlântico”. The trailhead is clearly marked near the hotel entrance.

🚕 Linear Hike Strategy

This is a one-way descent. Do not hike back up (it’s brutal). Park at the top (Prazeres), hike down to Paul do Mar, and take a pre-arranged taxi or the bus back up to your car.

The Driver’s Perspective

🚘 Scenic West Coast

Relaxed driving in Prazeres.

Road Condition Excellent

Parking Plenty (Free)

Traffic Low

Our Rental Recommendation: The drive to Prazeres is smooth via the VR1/VE3. Any car will do fine here. If you plan to drive down to the village of Paul do Mar to pick someone up, be aware the old road down is steep and winding.

Find Your Perfect Car

Essential Gear

Hiking Poles: Essential to protect your knees on the steep stone steps.
Sun Hat: The trail is west-facing and fully exposed to the afternoon sun.
Swimsuit: A dip in the ocean at Paul do Mar is the perfect reward.

🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?

Maktub Bar

Located near the end of the trail in Paul do Mar. This is the ultimate “Surfer Bar” in Madeira. Grab a Mojito or a cold beer and watch the sunset over the waves. The vibe is unbeatable.