Ribeiro Frio, a tiny village in the heart of the laurel forest, is the start of two of Madeira's best-known walks: the short path to the Balcões viewpoint and the long Levada do Furado to Portela.
A nearly flat path along a levada leads to the Balcões (balconies) viewpoint, with a view over the deep valleys of the north and the central peaks. It is one of the easiest walks on the island and a good first levada; chaffinches often come to eat from walkers' hands.
The PR10 follows the Levada do Furado from Ribeiro Frio to Portela through dense laurel forest, with some narrow, exposed sections. It is linear, so you need transport at the end: a taxi, a bus or a guided hike with pick-up.
Yes: it is short, easy and has one of the best views of the laurel forest and the central mountains. Go early or late to avoid tour groups.
Pairs a sunrise at Pico do Arieiro with a walk at Balcões in about 3.5 hours. Suits early risers who want a mountain morning without giving up a whole day.
from €44 per person
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Suits visitors who want the island's east in one outing: Pico do Areeiro, a levada walk, Santana, rum in Porto da Cruz and Ponta de São Lourenço.
from €38 per person
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A calm walk through laurel forest with endemic plants and birds, suited to nature lovers. An old laurel tree stands along the route.
from €45 per person
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Guided levada walk of about 8 hours in a group of up to 15, with local flora, fauna and views toward Porto da Cruz and Penha d'Águia. Bring sports shoes.
from €48 per person
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Walk along the PR10 levada through laurel and heather, with shifting light and shade. Near Lamaceiros, views open toward Porto da Cruz and Penha d'Águia.
from €65 per person
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A guided look at eastern Madeira for those who like variety: Pico do Arieiro views, Santana's traditional houses, a levada walk and a rum tasting at North Mills.
from €40 per person
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Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
Guided hikes Levada walks and mountain hikes with a guide and transport. 
Easy levada walks Flat, short and family-friendly walks. 
PR1 Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo The classic ridge hike between Madeira's highest peaks, one-way since 2026. 
Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) Madeira's most popular walk: springs, a lagoon and the Risco waterfall. 
Caldeirão Verde (PR9) Tunnels and laurel forest to a waterfall lagoon near Santana. 