PR9 LEVADA DO CALDEIRAO VERDE
The PR9 levada hike is consideed the most beautiful of all the levada hikes on the island. It is less steep than the Pico Do Arieiro hike but still considered moderate to challenging. The trek takes you along one of the oldest levadas, through several tunnels (bring flash lights), passing several smaller waterfalls to the Green Lagoon with a stunning waterfall.
HOW TO DO THE HIKE
WHERE DOES THE HIKE START?
Park your car on the parking spot of the "Cafetaria Queimadas". From here you can start the hike.
IS THE HIKE DIFFICULT?
The hike is doable but not easy. (easier than the Pico Do Arieeiro hike). Since you are basically following the levada uphill, it is a constant, slow uphill hike. The path is well maintained but you need to be carefull where you step since it is pretty narrow. The full hike takes about 6 hours (return)
WHAT TIME SHOULD YOU START?
The hike can get pretty busy during peak season so we recommend starting early.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE?
Of course if you have proper hiking shoes that would be ideal. But the trek is very well maintained and we actually did it in running shoes. For the tunnels you can use the flashlight on your mobile phone, but if you have a slightly stronger light it would be helpfull. Most of the hike is covered by trees, so sunscreen is not as vital as on other hikes.
BEST TIME OF THE YEAR:
The best time of the year for hiking on madeira is May, June and September, October.
