PR 14 – Levada dos Cedros
The Oldest Forest in Madeira
Distance
7.2 km (One Way)
Duration
3h
Difficulty
Moderate
Status
✅ OPEN
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This trail lives in the shadow of Fanal (PR 13), so it is rarely crowded. It is perfectly safe to do in the afternoon, even if it is misty (which adds to the atmosphere).
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Levada dos Cedros?
The PR 14 – Levada dos Cedros is a journey into the ancient past. It was built in the 17th century, making it one of the oldest levadas on the island.
It cuts through the most pristine section of the Laurisilva forest on the north-west side. The “Cedros” (Madeira Cedar) trees here are massive, towering giants covered in moss, growing in a lush, green, almost prehistoric jungle.
Trail Map
From Fanal (ER 209) to Curral Falso.
Step-by-Step Guide
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1
Fanal Road (Start)
Start at the trailhead on the ER 209 (Fanal road). You immediately descend a long series of wooden steps into the deep forest.
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2
The Levada Source
You reach the origin of the levada at the Ribeira da Janela stream. The water is crystal clear and cold.
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3
The Ancient Walk
Follow the water channel. The path is carved directly into the steep forested slope. Look up to see 30m tall Cedar trees.
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4
Curral Falso (Finish)
The trail ends at the Curral Falso junction. From here, you can walk up the steep road back to Fanal (hard) or arrange a pickup.
📸 Best Photo Spots
The sheer scale of the Madeira Cedar (Juniperus cedrus) trees here is unmatched. Use a human for scale in your photos.
Several small waterfalls cascade directly onto the path and into the levada, creating beautiful long-exposure opportunities.
The canopy is so dense that it blocks out most of the sky, creating a vibrant, naturally saturated green tunnel effect.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
The trail starts on the **ER 209**, the main road that crosses the Paul da Serra plateau towards Porto Moniz.
📍 Entrance Marker
Look for the wooden sign “PR 14 Levada dos Cedros” about 2km past the Fanal Forestry station (if driving from the plateau side).
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 Misty Mountain Roads
The ER 209 is scenic but often foggy.
Our Rental Recommendation: The road surface on the ER 209 can be a bit rougher than the main highways. A **Compact SUV** or a car with decent tires is recommended for comfort. This is Madeira Island has the perfect fleet for these forest roads.
Essential Gear
- Waterproof Boots: The path is notoriously muddy. White sneakers will be destroyed here.
- Raincoat: The forest is wet and drips constantly, even if it is not raining.
- Towel: Useful to wipe off mud before getting back into your rental car.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Drive down the mountain to Porto Moniz (20 mins). There are many restaurants here like Sea View or Cachalote. Nothing beats a fresh seafood lunch after a damp forest hike.
