About Tour

This tour combines a peaceful walk along the Levada do Rei with a visit to the historic São Jorge Water Mill, one of the last traditional water mills still operating in Madeira. The walk begins in São Jorge, following the Levada do Rei along a route lined with lush vegetation and panoramic views. During the hike, you will admire the endemic flora of the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After the hike, we will visit the São Jorge Water Mill, where you can observe the traditional process of grain milling using only the power of water. At the end of the tour, we’ll stop at a local spot where you can taste a traditional poncha, the famous regional drink of Madeira.

Highlights

• Levada do Rei Walk – A relaxing trail through the green and dense Laurisilva forest.
• Visit to the São Jorge Water Mill – Explore one of the last traditional water mills still in operation in Madeira and learn about the milling process.
• Poncha Tasting – Finish the tour with a stop to enjoy authentic Madeiran poncha.

Included

• Return transport from your accommodation
• Professional guide accompanying the group throughout the tour
• Entrance to the São Jorge Water Mill
• Personal accident and liability insurance

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing suitable for hiking
• Proper footwear for trails
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Water and snacks to stay hydrated during the hike
• Raincoat or waterproof jacket (depending on weather conditions)
• Camera to capture the landscapes

Tour Snapshot

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Minimum Age: 8 years
• Availability: Year-round, subject to weather conditions

Itinerary

1. Pick-up from your accommodation – The tour starts with early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Funchal or Caniço. The exact time will be confirmed depending on your location.

2. Levada do Rei Walk – The hike begins in São Jorge, following the Levada do Rei. During the journey to Ribeiro Bonito, you will pass through lush areas of the Laurissilva forest, with stunning views over the São Jorge valley.

3. Visit to the São Jorge Water Mill – After the walk, we’ll visit the São Jorge Water Mill, one of the last traditional water mills still operating in Madeira. Here, you will learn about the traditional milling process powered by water.

4. Stop for poncha tasting – At the end of the tour, we’ll stop at a local spot where you can relax and try the famous Madeiran poncha.

5. Return to starting point – After the tasting, you will be returned to your accommodation.

Pick-up Information

• Pick-up service is included for accommodations in Funchal and Caniço. For accommodations outside these areas, an additional fee will apply, confirmed at the time of booking.
• The exact pick-up time will be communicated before the tour, depending on your accommodation’s location.

Meet on Location

If you prefer to meet directly at the location, the meeting point will be at the entrance of the Levada do Rei in São Jorge. GPS coordinates and detailed information will be provided after booking confirmation.