4.6
(1968)
8,638
hikers
Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop
04:12
12.0km
420m
Hiking
Hike the Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop, a moderate 7.5-mile trail through Madeira's mystical Laurisilva forest and historic levadas.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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477 m
Levada dos Cedros
Highlight • Trail
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Tip by
4.56 km
Viewpoint on Levada dos Cedros
Highlight • Viewpoint
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5.60 km
Levada dos Cedros Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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7.31 km
Fanal Laurel Forest
Highlight • Forest
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7.71 km
Englishmen's Rock
Highlight • Natural Monument
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12.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.97 km
5.07 km
366 m
248 m
197 m
132 m
Surfaces
4.78 km
3.79 km
2.67 km
548 m
197 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,170 m)
Lowest point (840 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
16°C
11°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop typically take to hike?
This moderately difficult circular route is approximately 12 km (7.45 miles) long. It generally takes between 3 to 4.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
What is the terrain like on this trail?
The terrain is varied, featuring traditional levada paths, narrow forest trails, and some open meadows. You'll encounter a significant number of wooden steps, which can be steep. The path is often damp and can become very muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so waterproof footwear is essential. Some sections of the levada path might even be flooded in very wet conditions.
What are the main sights and natural features along the way?
The route immerses you in the ancient Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key highlights include the mystical Fanal Laurel Forest with its ancient, twisted trees, and the serene Levada dos Cedros itself. You'll also pass a Levada dos Cedros Waterfall and enjoy occasional views, including a specific Viewpoint on Levada dos Cedros overlooking the Ribeira da Janela valley.
Where can I park for the Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop?
Parking is available near the Fanal area. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking area can fill up quickly. There is no public transport directly to the trailhead, so a car is generally recommended for access.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
The trail can be hiked year-round, but the experience varies. The Fanal forest is particularly enchanting when shrouded in mist, which is more common outside of the drier summer months. However, be prepared for very wet and slippery conditions during the rainy season. Spring and autumn often offer a good balance of lush greenery and manageable weather.
Is the Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop dog-friendly?
Generally, dogs are permitted on most trails in Madeira, including this one. However, they should always be kept on a leash, especially due to the narrow paths, potential for wildlife, and the presence of other hikers. Be mindful of the wooden steps and slippery sections, which might be challenging for some dogs.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?
No, you do not need a specific permit or to pay an entrance fee to hike the Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop. The trail is part of the public access network within the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What should I wear and bring for this hike?
Given the often damp and muddy conditions, waterproof hiking boots are essential. We also recommend wearing layers, as the weather can change quickly, and bringing a waterproof jacket. Don't forget water, snacks, and a headlamp or flashlight, especially if you start late, as some sections can be quite shaded and dark. Trekking poles can be very helpful for stability on slippery or steep sections.
Does this route connect with other trails?
Yes, the route primarily follows the official PR 14 - Levada dos Cedros trail. It also intersects with sections of other paths such as A Lagoa, Vereda da Ribeira Funda, and PR 13 - Vereda do Fanal, offering potential for longer or alternative explorations if you wish to extend your hike.
Is the Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros Loop suitable for families with children?
While the trail is rated as moderate, the wooden steps and potentially very muddy, slippery, and narrow sections can be challenging for younger children or those not accustomed to hiking. It's best suited for families with older children who are experienced hikers and have appropriate footwear.
Is there an insider tip for hiking this trail?
To fully experience the mystical atmosphere of the Fanal forest and avoid the busiest times at the main Fanal viewpoint, consider starting your hike early in the morning. This also helps secure parking. If you prefer a quieter experience, the sections along the Levada dos Cedros are often less crowded than the Fanal area itself.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Today is travel day again. We move to Porto Moniz, the northeastern tip of the island. On the way we want to take a hike along the Levada dos Cedros. We start the tour from one of the parking spaces on the ER 209 with access to the Levada. The levada meanders beautifully along the slope. It's full to the brim. In some places the water seeps into the path and makes it a bit muddy. There are always beautiful views of the peaks along the main ridge. At the end of the levada there is a great waterfall to look at. Here we turn left and climb steeply up the slope up to the ER 209. We cross this and continue climbing to the Fanal, an ancient laurel forest. The trees here are a few centuries old. Some are said to have already been here when Madeira was discovered. We climb up the hill and have a great view of the Paul da Serra plateau and the northeast coast from above, before the approaching fog obscures our view. Immediately in front of us is the Rocha dos Ingleses, a striking rock. But we descend again into the laurel forest. The trees now look particularly mystical because of the fog. The laurel forest of Fanal is therefore often referred to as the fairy forest. The path crosses the ER 209 again and continues on the other side of the slope. It is beautiful to walk, but is also used by mountain bikers. That's why you should be careful here.
The levadas are present throughout the first part of the route. The path next to it was quite muddy but beautiful nature. And the highlight of the show remains the Fanal forest in the mists
Today we headed in a northwesterly direction. The path along the Levada dos Cedros was a bit muddy but quaintly enveloped in the green vegetation of plants and trees. The path crosses parts of the laurel forest, which is beautiful to look at with its old and bony trees. Even the tour bus full of Americans walking across the field in their sandals couldn't spoil that.
Today (2024-12-30) very muddy, deep ground and dirty.
A very beautiful and varied tour. We had sometimes more and sometimes less rain on the way to the top. When we reached the highest point, the sun fought its way through. 🌞 The paths were very soft, so that even with good hiking boots you slipped in some places. I can definitely recommend this hike 😊
Part 2 of today takes us to another levada in the immediate vicinity of the Fanal Forest. Although you only have to cross the road to get to the starting point, it is rarely used. At least we met very few other hikers. Maybe it's the entrance, because first it's almost 300 hm down endless wooden steps until you reach the levada. But then you are rewarded on a winding path through the impenetrable thicket of the steep walls with a varied hike past a waterfall, a viewpoint, pure nature and the impressive architecture of the levada constructors. Predicate: recommended! On the way back, follow a mountain bike trail uphill (be careful, some people actually go down) until you reach the laurel forest of Fanal and finally the car park.
The weather today did not allow for great views on this beautiful tour, but the trees seemed all the more mystical. And the Levada is also very beautiful. We only saw the Rocha dos Ingleses through the thick fog when we were standing right in front of it. The locations of the photos are incorrect as they were taken with an external camera.
Beautiful hike 🙌🏻 Sturdy shoes and warm clothing are a must. From Fanal down to the starting point you MUST be very careful as it is also a downhill mountain bike trail!!! Highly recommended 🙌🏻