Levada do Castelejo
The Rural Balcony of the North
Distance
6.0 km (One Way)
Duration
3h – 4h
Difficulty
Moderate
Status
⛔ CLOSED
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This path can get very muddy after rain. It is best enjoyed on a dry, clear morning to see the Eagle Rock (Penha d’Águia) free of clouds.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Levada do Castelejo?
This trail offers a distinct contrast to the deep laurel forests of the west. Levada do Castelejo runs through the agricultural heart of Porto da Cruz.
You will walk along terraces filled with sweet potatoes, vines, and local crops, witnessing the rural lifestyle of Madeira. The backdrop is dominated by the imposing Penha d’Águia (Eagle Rock), offering spectacular coastal views towards the north.
Trail Map
From Referta (Porto da Cruz) to the river source.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
1
Referta (Start)
Park near the recycling bins/water tank at Referta (Porto da Cruz). The trail begins here, instantly immersing you in local farmland.
-
2
The Agricultural Zone
The first few kilometers are easy, passing backyards, barking dogs, and friendly locals tending their crops. Enjoy the views of the ocean to your left.
-
3
Into the Valley
As you progress, the houses disappear, and the valley narrows. The vegetation becomes wilder (exotic forest) and the path clings to the hillside.
-
4
The Source (Turnaround)
The trail ends at the Ribeiro Frio river bed, often marked by a small concrete bridge or weir. This is a great picnic spot before heading back the same way.
📸 Best Photo Spots
The constant view of the massive “Eagle Rock” formation separating Porto da Cruz from Faial is the highlight.
Capture the geometric patterns of the “Poios” (terraced fields) with the blue Atlantic ocean in the background.
The trail is lined with massive Taro (Inhame) plants, which grow in the wet ditches of the levada.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
This trail is located on the North Coast, above Porto da Cruz.
📍 Start Point: Referta
Navigate to “Levada do Castelejo” or “Referta, Porto da Cruz”. The road is steep and narrow winding up from the village center.
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 Narrow Village Roads
Steep, narrow, two-way traffic.
Our Rental Recommendation: A small car is better here due to narrow passing places. You need a car with a good clutch or an Automatic for the hill starts in Referta.
Essential Gear
- Trail Shoes: It is flat but often muddy. Sneakers will get ruined.
- Water: It can be humid and warm on this lower-altitude north coast trail.
- Sun Hat: Parts of the trail are exposed to the sun.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Porto da Cruz Seafront
Drive down to the village. A Pipa serves excellent fish and “Prego” sandwiches. Don’t forget to visit the Engenhos do Norte rum factory nearby for a Poncha tasting!
