Caminho Real do Paul do Mar
Also known as: Royal Path to Paúl do Mar
Historic zigzag path, sea views, agricultural terraces, stone walls
Trail Overview
Caminho Real do Paul do Mar (PR19) is a hard vereda (steep coastal descent) trail located in Madeira, Portugal. Starting from Prazeres and ending at Paúl do Mar, this 1.8km route typically takes 1-1.5 hours to complete.Historic zigzag path, sea views, agricultural terraces, stone walls. Very steep descent (500m in 1.8km). Hard on knees. Cobbled stone steps can be slippery. Return uphill is extremely demanding.
Quick Facts
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Duration
- 1-1.5 h
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation Gain
- 500 m
Exposure & Heights
High exposure (4/5)
Steep coastal descent with exposure on the hillside; vertigo-inducing in sections.
Tunnels
- Has tunnels
- No
Route Details
- Starting Point
- Prazeres
- End Point
- Paúl do Mar
- Trail Type
- Vereda (steep coastal descent)
Parking & Access
- Parking Location
- Prazeres
- Parking Cost
- Free
- Best Season
- Year-round (avoid in heavy rain — slippery stones)
Essential Equipment
Sturdy shoes with grip, trekking poles helpful, water, sun protection
Safety Information
Very steep descent (500m in 1.8km). Hard on knees. Cobbled stone steps can be slippery. Return uphill is extremely demanding.
Weather Advisory
Check the local forecast before setting out. Madeira's microclimates mean conditions can vary significantly between the north coast (wetter), south coast (drier), and mountains (cooler, cloudier).
Best time for this trail: Year-round (avoid in heavy rain — slippery stones)
Permit Required
This route typically requires a paid permit. Always confirm the final requirements (price, timing, and who is exempt) in SIMplifica for your exact route and date.
Similar trails
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