4.6
(1429)
5,035
hikers
Ribeiro Frio to Chão das Feiteiras Loop Trail
03:10
9.47km
450m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 5.9-mile Ribeiro Frio to Chão das Feiteiras Loop Trail through Madeira's Laurissilva forest, featuring levadas and plateau
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
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8 m
Ribeiro Frio Trout Farm and Restaurant
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425 m
Balcões Trail
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1.44 km
View from the Miradouro dos Balcões
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4.56 km
View of the valley and mountains from Levada dos Tornos
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5.74 km
Levada do Poço do Bezerra
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9.47 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.85 km
922 m
295 m
242 m
162 m
Surfaces
6.76 km
1.19 km
922 m
540 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,170 m)
Lowest point (830 m)
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Weather
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Sunday 24 May
18°C
15°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Ribeiro Frio to Chão das Feiteiras Loop Trail?
The trail conveniently starts at Ribeiro Frio, where you'll find parking available. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking spots can fill up quickly.
How do I get to the trailhead using public transport?
Ribeiro Frio is a well-known starting point for several trails and is accessible by public bus services from Funchal. Check local bus schedules for routes heading towards Ribeiro Frio.
Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. The initial section along the levada is mostly flat and manageable. However, the second half includes a steep, sustained incline that requires good fitness and can be slippery. It might be challenging for very young children or those unaccustomed to hiking on uneven terrain.
What is the terrain like on the Ribeiro Frio to Chão das Feiteiras Loop Trail?
You'll start with a relatively flat walk alongside a levada. The trail then transitions to a more challenging ascent on a narrow, steep path that can be slippery and overgrown with roots. The descent typically involves stone steps. You'll be immersed in the lush Laurissilva forest throughout.
What natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see along the route?
The trail offers deep immersion in the UNESCO Heritage Laurissilva forest, with dense greenery and moss-covered cliffs. Along the levada, you might see small waterfalls and tranquil ponds. If the weather is clear, the Chão das Feiteiras plateau can provide magnificent views of Madeira's highest peaks, such as Pico do Arieiro, Pico das Torres, and Pico Ruivo. You'll also pass by the Ribeiro Frio Trout Farm and Restaurant.
Does this trail connect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route shares sections with several other paths. Notably, it follows part of the PR 10 - Levada do Furado and also intersects with the PR 11 - Vereda dos Balcões. You'll also find portions of the Caminho Real 24 along the way.
What makes this trail unique compared to other hikes in Madeira?
This loop trail offers a more peaceful and secluded experience within the Laurissilva forest due to its relatively low tourist traffic compared to other popular Madeiran hikes. It's an excellent choice for those seeking quiet immersion in nature.
Can I combine this hike with a visit to the Balcões viewpoint?
Yes, the trail starts near the access point for the popular Balcões Trail. If you start your hike early, it's possible to combine this loop with a visit to the Miradouro dos Balcões for its stunning panoramic views.
Are there any facilities or cafes near the trailhead?
Yes, the trailhead at Ribeiro Frio is an established tourist spot. You'll find the Ribeiro Frio Trout Farm and Restaurant, as well as other small cafes and shops, where you can get refreshments before or after your hike.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
Madeira's climate is mild year-round, making this trail accessible in most seasons. However, the path can be particularly slippery when damp, so drier periods are preferable. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and lush scenery.
Is the Ribeiro Frio to Chão das Feiteiras Loop Trail dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally allowed on many trails in Madeira, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially given the narrow and sometimes slippery sections of this route. Be mindful of other hikers and local wildlife.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail or the Parque Natural da Madeira?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Ribeiro Frio to Chão das Feiteiras Loop Trail or to access the general areas of the Parque Natural da Madeira where this trail is located. However, always respect the natural environment and follow any posted regulations.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Today we hiked the most challenging route yet (in terms of concentration and physical strength). Up to halfway through, we had to avoid all the small lakes along the trail after the sometimes heavy rains of the last few days, but it was manageable. But then the climb began, up what felt like endless stairs. No matter, the effort is good, and the food is well-earned. But the best thing is the clean, clear air. Amazing.
Another beautiful tour. First, from the Ribeiro Frio trout farm to the Balcoes, where, surrounded by chaffinches, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the mountains. Then, continue along the Levada Furado and then, almost mystically, back over the mountain along the Levada do Poco do Bezerro. Strenuous, but highly recommended.
Today we want to hike in the mountains. The road leads up steeply and dead straight from Funchal. People don't seem to know about serpentines here. But our Jeep handles the incline without any problems. Via the ER 103 we reach Ribeira Frio, the starting point for today's hike. First it's a leisurely walk along the Levada do Furado. After about an hour we reach the Levada Poco do Bezerra. This shoots steeply down the slope. For us this means a steep climb. After another hour we reach a high plateau. Sheep mostly graze here. The wind blows unpleasantly across the open space. We briefly follow the Camino Real 24 long-distance hiking trail and soon start the descent again towards Ribeira Frio. After a short lunch break, we follow the PR 11 along the Levada do Juncal and after about 1.5 km we reach the Dos Balcoes viewpoint.
The trail running route is very washed out in places and the path is sometimes no longer recognizable
A quick hop to see the PR11 viewpoint, then a much quieter trundle along the beautiful and verdant PR10 levada trail. A much smaller levada leads up to a plateau on the top of the hill, and then it's a short mossy trundle back down to Ribeiro Frio
Very nice circular hike with a great climb, views of the highest mountains and small waterfalls where you can swim. Before the circular hike, you can take a detour via the PR 11 and enjoy an espresso in the cafes at the parking lot. PR 11: https://visitmadeira.com/en/what-to-do/nature-seekers/activities/hiking/pr-11-vereda-dos-balcoes/ PR 10: https://visitmadeira.com/en/what-to-do/nature-seekers/activities/hiking/pr-10-levada-do-furado/
Great nature conservation and hiking area! The beautiful viewpoint Balcones over the gorges of the laurel forest to the sea was still shared with quite a few people - then on the further path along the Levada towards Portela it was very idyllic and quiet. Every now and then with tunnel crossings, along waterfalls and in the deep green forest (many endemic Lauracea plants here) - Madeira (in Portuguese "wood") shows off impressive vegetation 🌿🌴☘🌳🍃🍂🌾
The circular route via Feiteiras de Baixo is somewhat unfairly overshadowed by the Levada hike to Portela, but it has the advantage that it is much less frequented. The first part of the hike also follows the Levada do Furado, from which you then climb on a narrow path to the plateau above the laurel forest. If the weather is good, there are magnificent views of Madeira's highest peaks. Starting point: