Levada dos Balcoes
Easy 1.5 km levada walk to a balcony over Ribeiro Frio. Laurel forest, birdwatching and views you can do in an hour, no shuttle needed.
Quick Facts
- Distance
- 1.5 km each way
- Time
- 45 min return
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation
- 860 m
- Trail
- PR11 Vereda dos Balcoes
Levada dos Balcões is the easiest levada walk on Madeira with one of the best views. A flat 1.5 km follows the levada to a balcony over Ribeiro Frio valley — do it in an hour, no shuttle, no permit.
At a Glance
The trail is PR11 Vereda dos Balcões, starting in Ribeiro Frio at 860 m elevation. You walk along the levada, through laurel forest, to a wide wooden balcony. Three kilometres total, 45 minutes return, almost no climbing.
The Walk
From the Ribeiro Frio car park, follow the levada east. The path is wide, flat and well-maintained, with a levada channel on one side and forest on the other. There are no tunnels and no exposed drops until the final balcony.
The balcony itself is spacious with a railing — safe for children. On clear days you see Penha de Águia, the Eagle Rock, and the central peaks. On cloudy days the valley fills with sea of clouds.
What You Will See
UNESCO laurel forest the whole way — moss, lichen and twisted trees. Listen for the Madeira firecrest and chaffinch, and look for trout in the levada. The viewpoint is a natural birdwatching spot — bring binoculars.
Getting There
Ribeiro Frio is 15 km north of Funchal, about 25 minutes by car via the ER103. Parking is at the village entrance — small, free, and full by 10am. Bus 56 from Funchal stops in Ribeiro Frio twice daily, but a car is more reliable.
When to Go
Year-round, but mornings are best. Arrive before 9am for fewer people and clearer views. The balcony faces east — morning light is behind you. After heavy rain, check trail status — the levada can be slippery.
Combine It
- Fanal Forest: 30 minutes west — laurel trees and mist photography
- Santana: A-frame houses, 15 minutes north
- Pico do Arieiro: Ridge walk, 20 minutes south
- Ribeiro Frio trout farm: Lunch in the village — fresh trout with local wine
Highlights
- The shortest levada walk with the biggest view — a balcony over the Ribeiro Frio valley.
- Through UNESCO laurel forest with chances to see Madeira firecrest and chaffinch.
- Flat, well-maintained levada with no exposed drops — ideal for families.
- No shuttle needed — out and back on the same path, 3 km total.
- Combine with a trout lunch in Ribeiro Frio village, 10 minutes away.
Good to Know
- Start at Ribeiro Frio — parking is small and fills by 10am, arrive early.
- The balcony can be crowded at midday — early morning is quieter and clearer.
- Carry a light layer — it is 5–7°C cooler at 860 m than in Funchal.
- No permit needed, but check trail status after heavy rain.
- Pair with Balcoes after the Fanal Forest or Santana for an easy day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Levada dos Balcoes?
1.5 km each way (3 km total), about 45 minutes return at a relaxed pace. The levada is flat with no climbing.
Is Levada dos Balcoes suitable for children?
Yes. It is one of the easiest levadas — wide, flat, with a handrail near the balcony. No steep drops and no tunnels.
Do I need a guide for Balcoes?
No. The path is well-marked from the Ribeiro Frio car park. Follow PR11 signs to the viewpoint and return the same way.
What will I see from the Balcoes viewpoint?
A wide balcony over the Ribeiro Frio valley, the Penha de Águia rock and on clear days the central peaks. Bring binoculars for birds.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. The levada and viewpoint are free. Parking is free but limited.