PR 18 - Levada do Rei
About This Trail
Known as the 'King's Levada,' this historic 5.3 km route from the Water Treatment Plant of Quebradas in São Jorge was built by King D. Carlos I in the 19th century. The 3.5-hour moderate hike takes you through the exuberant Laurissilva forest in the beautiful São Jorge valley to Ribeiro Bonito—the source of the Bonito stream and an isolated natural sanctuary covered by dense endemic vegetation. Tunnel formations created by diverse vegetation enhance the mystical atmosphere, culminating at the São Jorge water mill, the only working mill of its kind, still grinding cereals from region terraced fields under a local miller's supervision despite three centuries of history.
Location & Trail Map
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Plan your stay around the trails
Our coliving in Funchal is a comfortable base for hiking trips — 30 to 60 minutes' drive from most central and eastern trailheads, with a community of remote workers who hit the levadas on weekends.
Check availability at Casa do Pico