Madeira hikes for fear of heights
Madeira has plenty of beautiful hikes without ridge exposure. Use this guide to shortlist low-exposure trails, then confirm official status and booking rules before you go.
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Before you choose a trail
- Always verify official status: check our status hub and use the official sources linked there.
- Weather changes fast: wind and low visibility can make exposure feel worse.
- Tunnels matter: some levada routes include dark tunnels; bring a headlamp when indicated.
- Fees/booking: confirm requirements in SIMplifica for your exact route and date.
Low-exposure trails (best starting point)
These are typically the best options if you’re sensitive to heights. Still, read each trail’s notes and decide based on your comfort level.
| Trail | Exposure | Tunnels | Status | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PR11 Vereda dos Balcões Vereda (short viewpoint) | 2/5 (low) Easy forest path; the viewpoint itself can feel high even though it is fenced. | No | Open | Free |
| PR13 Vereda do Fanal Vereda/Levada mix | 1/5 (low) Low exposure; main challenge is mud and poor visibility in fog. | No | Open | Free |
| PR18 Levada do Rei Levada Walk | 2/5 (low) Generally low exposure, but keep awareness near levada edges, especially when wet. | No | Open | Paid (check SIMplifica) |
| PR6.1 Levada do Risco Levada walk (short) | 2/5 (low) Short, popular walk; take care at viewpoints and on slippery sections. | No | Open | Paid (check SIMplifica) |
Moderate exposure (choose carefully)
These trails can be fine for some hikers but may include narrow ledges, tunnels, or viewpoints that feel intense.
Vereda do Pico Ruivo
Mountain route with steep sections; exposure varies with weather and visibility.
Levada das 25 Fontes
Mostly forest paths, but includes narrow sections and unprotected drops in places.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Includes narrow ledges and multiple dark tunnels; take extra care in wet weather.
High exposure (usually avoid)
If fear of heights is a major concern, ridge walks and exposed coastal paths are often the hardest.
- PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Areeiro → Ruivo)Very exposed ridge with major vertigo triggers; not suitable for fear of heights.
- PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São LourençoExposed coastal sections with unprotected edges; avoid in strong wind.