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
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 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
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
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1
Prazeres (Start)
Start near the Hotel Jardim do Atlântico in Prazeres. The trail begins at the cliff edge with a stunning viewpoint.
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2
The Zig-Zags
The path descends steeply via switchbacks. The stone paving is ancient and polished. Watch your footing.
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3
The Waterfall
Halfway down, the path crosses a stream. In winter or after rain, this becomes a beautiful waterfall cascading down the cliff.
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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
From the start at Prazeres, you can photograph the entire village of Paul do Mar spread out like a map below you.
Capture the geometric zig-zag pattern of the ancient stone walls winding down the green cliff face.
As you descend, the sun sets directly in front of you. Great for silhouette shots of hikers against the glittering ocean.
Facilities & Amenities
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.
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.
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.
