20 Nov 2024
The actual hike is further on the ground than advertised, but as it is mostly flat we managed the distance with no trouble. The walk in itself is very varied, with constantly changing scenery and vistas, but our guide (Sofia?) made it even more interesting, pointing out flora which in England are classed as plants or bushes but which grow into trees on Madeira! Examples included varieties of heather and, most surprisingly, the dandelion! She also kept us aware of hazards, such as particularly narrow sections of the pathway and, in the tunnels, where there was a risk of damage to our heads. By the end of the trip we had gained a very understanding of the history of the levadas as well as the unique landscape of the island.