The Levada do Moinho and Levada Nova walk is a rewarding circular hike above Ponta do Sol, combining peaceful irrigation channels, valley views, a waterfall passage and a short dark tunnel. It is one of the south coast’s most enjoyable half-day levada walks, but it is not a carefree stroll: narrow ledges, uneven surfaces and changing weather conditions require sensible footwear and confidence on exposed paths. In this updated guide: the best direction for the loop, where to begin, what the route is really like, tunnel essentials, parking advice and whether it suits children or nervous hikers.
What makes this Ponta do Sol levada loop special
This route links two historic water channels on the slopes above Lombada, in the municipality of Ponta do Sol. Rather than following one levada out and back, it makes a satisfying circuit: one channel carries you into a green valley, while the other returns on a higher contour with wider views across cultivated terraces, banana plots and the Atlantic-facing south coast.
The main highlight is the section where water spills over the path around the Levada Nova. Depending on recent rainfall and maintenance work, this can range from a photogenic trickle to a properly wet crossing. There is also a short tunnel, which adds a little adventure without turning the walk into a serious underground hike.
Do not confuse this route with Madeira’s official PR 7 Levada do Moinho trail. That signed PR route is in the west of the island, between Ribeira da Cruz and Junqueira, not above Ponta do Sol. The Levada do Moinho–Levada Nova circuit described here is a local, non-PR loop.
| Location | Lombada, above Ponta do Sol on Madeira’s south-west coast |
| Route type | Circular walk linking Levada do Moinho and Levada Nova |
| Distance | Allow roughly 9 km; GPS tracks vary according to the access lanes and turnaround points used |
| Walking time | About 3 to 4 hours at an unhurried pace, including photo stops |
| Difficulty | Moderate: mostly level levada walking, with a steep connecting stair section and narrow stretches |
| Key features | Waterfall crossing, short tunnel, agricultural scenery and views over the Ponta do Sol valley |
| Parking | Very limited around the Lombada starting area; arrive early and never obstruct local access |
| Trail status | Check the Ponta do Sol council’s latest safety notice before setting out |
Which direction should you walk it?
For most walkers, the clearest and most comfortable direction is Levada do Moinho first, then Levada Nova on the return. Begin from the Lombada area and follow the lower Levada do Moinho into the valley. The path is generally easy to follow at first, passing gardens, cultivated slopes and sections of lush vegetation.
After several kilometres, the loop changes character. A steep connecting path and stairway take you uphill from Levada do Moinho to Levada Nova. This is the least relaxed part of the circuit, but climbing it is usually preferable to descending it: the steps can be damp, irregular and slippery after rain.
Once on Levada Nova, turn back in the direction of Lombada. This upper section is where you encounter the waterfall passage and the short tunnel. Walking it as the return leg means the more exposed, wet and enclosed moments come after the main climb, when you can take your time rather than rushing to find the connector.
Carry an offline map, but do not depend on it blindly. Madeira’s levadas often run past private plots, farm tracks and small junctions, and route lines on hiking apps can differ slightly. If a section is signed closed, blocked by a barrier or visibly damaged, turn back rather than trying to improvise a detour.
Getting there and parking in Lombada
The practical starting area is in Lombada, uphill from Ponta do Sol village. A hire car is the simplest option, as it gives you the freedom to arrive early and return directly from the trailhead. Roads in this part of Madeira are narrow, steep and shared with residents, agricultural vehicles and pedestrians, so allow extra time for the final approach.
Parking is limited rather than formal. You may find a few spaces near the local lanes around the start, but this is not a large dedicated hiking car park. Do not leave your vehicle on bends, in front of gates, beside driveways or where it narrows the road for residents. If the area is already full, choose another walk rather than creating an obstruction.
Public transport can get you to Ponta do Sol, but the walk’s elevated Lombada starting point is less straightforward without a car. A taxi transfer from the village is an option if you are not driving; arrange your return in advance, as mobile coverage can be inconsistent in the valley.
Waterfall, tunnel and trail conditions: what to expect
This is a working levada environment, not a paved promenade. Expect compacted earth, concrete channels, rough stone, damp patches and occasional overgrown vegetation. The terrain is mostly level beside the water, but there are sections with little room between the levada and the slope. Handrails are not continuous, and some parts can feel exposed.
The waterfall section is beautiful, but it is also the reason to bring a waterproof layer. Water can fall directly onto the path, while moss and spray make the surface slippery. Keep your camera and phone protected, and avoid stopping beneath the falling water if rocks are loose after heavy rain.
The tunnel is short, but it is unlit and can be wet underfoot. A head torch is better than relying on a phone light, leaving both hands free for balance. Anyone uncomfortable with darkness or confined spaces should know that this is a genuine tunnel passage, even though it only lasts a short time.
Trail safety needs particular attention here. The Ponta do Sol municipality published a temporary closure notice for both Levada do Moinho and Levada Nova on 5 May 2026 because of worsening weather conditions, stating that reopening would follow once safety conditions were restored. Check the official municipal notice and local updates on the day you plan to walk; do not assume a route is open simply because it appears on a hiking app.
Is it suitable for families or nervous hikers?
For active families with older children who are used to uneven trails, follow instructions well and are comfortable near drops, this can be an excellent outing when the route is officially safe and open. It has enough variety to keep young walkers interested: flowing water, changing views, stairs, a waterfall and the tunnel.
It is not the best first levada walk for toddlers, pushchairs, anyone with limited balance or people who strongly dislike heights. The concern is not distance alone; it is the combination of narrow ledges, intermittent exposure, wet surfaces and the steep link between the two levadas.
Nervous hikers may prefer a more forgiving introduction such as Levada dos Balcões (PR11), where the path is shorter and the experience is less committing. More confident walkers looking for Madeira’s classic waterfall-and-levada scenery can also consider Rabaçal, 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall, subject to its official trail status and booking requirements.
- Start early: the Lombada lanes have very limited parking, and the waterfall area is more pleasant before other walkers arrive.
- Walk Moinho first: tackling the connector uphill is generally more comfortable and gives a logical return along Levada Nova.
- Take a proper torch: a head torch is safer and more useful than a phone for the tunnel.
- Wear grippy shoes: trainers with worn soles are a poor choice for wet concrete, moss and uneven steps.
- Pack a light waterproof: even on a sunny south-coast day, spray from the waterfall can leave you damp.
- Respect closures immediately: barriers and warnings are there because Madeira’s paths can be affected by falling rocks, rain and erosion.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Levada do Moinho and Levada Nova walk in Madeira?
Most versions of the circular route are around 9 km. Allow 3 to 4 hours, as the surface, stair connector, waterfall stop and photography all slow the pace.
Do I need to pay an access fee for this Ponta do Sol loop?
This is not the same as the official PR 7 route in Porto Moniz. No specific 2026 access fee for the Lombada Levada do Moinho–Levada Nova loop was published at the time of verification, but always check local notices before visiting.
Can I walk the route in trainers?
Sturdy walking shoes or trail trainers with reliable grip are strongly recommended. The path can be wet around the waterfall and tunnel, and the connecting stairs are uneven.
Is the tunnel difficult?
The tunnel is short, but it is dark and may be damp. Bring a torch, watch your footing and avoid it if enclosed spaces make you uncomfortable.
Facts and prices verified in August 2026. Trail access in Madeira can change quickly after rain, wind or rockfall, so recheck local safety information before leaving your accommodation. For planning beyond the walk, see where to stay in Madeira, our guide to the best things to do in Madeira, and where to try a well-earned traditional poncha.
