Levada Prazeres - Raposeira — Attraction in Calheta

The Levada Prazeres – Raposeira hike is one of the most pleasant and satisfying levada walks I’ve experienced in Madeira. This trail strikes an ideal balance between accessibility, scenic reward, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a top recommendation for anyone looking for a relaxing yet beautiful walk on the island.

From the first steps, the trail invites you into a calm, immersive rhythm. The levada flows gently beside you, offering a constant, soothing presence that becomes almost meditative. The path is very well-maintained, wide enough in most places to walk comfortably, and never feels risky or overly narrow. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners, families, or anyone who wants to enjoy a nature walk without technical challenges.

What I loved most about this hike was how consistently enjoyable it was from start to finish. Unlike some trails where you have to wait for the “wow moments,” this route provides steady visual interest throughout—from subtle forest textures to sweeping ocean views, all framed by the serene flow of the levada. Even without dramatic altitude changes or waterfalls, the natural harmony of the path creates a deep sense of contentment.

One of the strongest points of this trail is the peace and quiet. There were hardly any other hikers, which made the experience feel even more special. This kind of solitude is rare on the more famous levadas, and it allows you to truly connect with the walk—without distractions, noise, or interruptions.

The trail signage is clear, and the route is easy to follow. I never felt unsure of the direction, and there were no confusing forks or poorly marked areas. It’s the kind of walk where you can just let go and enjoy, without constantly checking a map or worrying about logistics.

Although the elevation remains mostly gentle, there are still enough curves, open spaces, and perspective shifts to keep things interesting. There’s a beautiful variety of scenery: open landscapes, green slopes, cultivated terraces, and brief shaded sections that provide a pleasant contrast. The play of light along the trail, especially in the late afternoon, adds another layer of beauty that enhances the entire experience.

The length of the walk is also ideal—it feels just right for a half-day activity. You get the satisfaction of a proper hike, but without fatigue. It’s refreshing rather than draining. By the end, I felt mentally clear, physically relaxed, and genuinely uplifted.

Another highlight is how accessible this hike is. There’s no need for special gear, and the path is forgiving enough for most age groups. It’s a perfect choice for anyone wanting to experience the magic of Madeira’s levadas without committing to a long or strenuous trek.

In conclusion, the Levada Prazeres – Raposeira trail is a highly rewarding hike that delivers exactly what a good levada walk should: tranquility, beauty, and a gentle connection with nature. It’s not about drama or adrenaline—it’s about peace, flow, and quiet joy. I would happily walk it again and recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone...

Mostly easy walking. A number of steep slippery steps over a couple of stepping stone crossings. We only did about three miles east and west. The easterly was the more interesting. Today's section wasn't busy. Several other couples. The westerly section a couple of days ago was busier but hardly crowded. Not suitable for sandals or flipflops! Some mud and lots of dust. Really peaceful under the, mainly, eucalyptus canopy. Some bird life loads of different lizards and dragonflies. An easy stroll for us despite having " bus passes" .UK readers...

Perfect hiking trail for families! We walked it with our 8- and 4-year-old and all four of us really enjoyed it. It’s a quiet, easy path along a small water canal (narrow but not deep), and most of the trail goes through beautiful laurel forest that gives plenty of shade – great on a warm day.

It’s not a loop, so if you go to the end you simply walk the same way back. Parking was easy and free, just like this levada: simple, accessible, and very enjoyable. Highly...