FUNCHAL, MADEIRA

This tour will allow us to discover the natural beauty of the island. We begin from Vale Paraiso, where we will walk along the Levada – a traditional man-made irrigation system ideal for walkers.

This tour will allow us to discover the natural beauty of the island. We begin from Vale Paraiso, where we will walk along the Levada – a traditional man-made irrigation system ideal for walkers. The first levadas date back to the 15th Century, and were constructed by workers, who were often suspended from baskets, carving through sheer cliff faces. The whole network is around 100 kilometres (62 miles) long. Some people believe that parts of the network were in place before any kind of road system. As we walk along the paths – originally built for maintenance – running beside the levadas, we will discover magnificent landscapes, indigenous flora and beautiful birds. Occasionally we may catch a glimpse of the southern coastline in the distance. Around every curve there is something new to be discovered. Following our guided walk we will be driven to Camacha, a village famous for being the wickerwork centre of Madeira. Here craftsmen create more than 800 different kinds of baskets alone; they may also make furniture and simple tools. Around the town we will be able to see the willow rods at all stages of preparation for the skilful weaving required to make the various products. Free time will allow us to admire the hand-made willow crafts, before the journey back to our ship. This tour involves approximately 2½ hours of walking; it is unsuitable for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair users. What flora or Fauna may be seen cannot be guaranteed. Please note that depending on the weather conditions, some paths may be muddy and slippery. A certain pace is required if all passengers wish to get full enjoyment from this tour.