Length - 6 kilometers
Hike
Duration - 2 hours
Grade
- Easy
Highlight -
The view over Machico and Atlantic Ocean
About the Levada
Levada is
an irrigation system typical to the island
of Madeira. In the 16th
centuries because of Madeira´s ridge landscape, the Portuguese started building
the levadas to carry water to agricultural regions in the island. Nowadays
levadas have still the same agricultural function and serve as one of the
popular tourist activities in the island. The Madeirans have built approximately 2500 kilometers
of levadas.
The Levada |
Our experience
The guide was already waiting at the hotel door. We were the last couple they have been waiting for. Our guide for this hike was very friendly. I sat next to him in front of the van. He was a joker and a talker. Well I think that is a part of their job!
Before we started the walk, we have got a short briefing about the do's and don'ts during the walk. A reminder for our safety.
When I
first saw the levada, I thought about the way to Taytay Falls
in Majayjay, Laguna. The only difference
is that the levada is narrower and longer than the irrigation in Majayjay.
The Levada
- Marocos Trail is a short hike. It is easy. So it is very suitable for beginners
and senior citizens too. The main highlight of this hike is the view of the Atlantic Ocean and the town of Machico. It was in Machico
that the first Portuguese landed in the island. João Gonçalves Zarco and
Tristão Vaz Teixeira are the two explorers who discovered the island.
The guide
told us about geological history of Madeira, about how the Levada works, how much the farmers pay and how many cubic meter
water they get. How it is to live in Madeira, the development that happened in decades in the island, the present political issues and many more.
He showed also the fauna typical to the island. Honestly, though the trip was
short, it was very educative. I have learned so much.
Before lunchtime we were already at the pick-up point, while resting we still did enjoy the surrounding. Because of this short trip, I have missed hiking in the Philippines.
View of the town Machico |
Before lunchtime we were already at the pick-up point, while resting we still did enjoy the surrounding. Because of this short trip, I have missed hiking in the Philippines.
Madeira Explorers