Paul da Serra is the largest and most extensive plateau on the island of Madeira, with about 24 km2 of extension and an altitude that varies between 1300-1500 meters of altitude.
It is a flat area that contrasts with the rest of Madeira, known for its constant ascents and descents.
The highest point of Paúl da Serra is Pico Ruivo do Paul, which reaches 1640 meters and from where it is possible to see the Atlantic Ocean on the north and south sides of the island.
It is very popular with hikers, as several levadas known for their paradisiacal landscapes begin here.
In this post, we are going to share with you some tips for visiting Paul da Serra.
That includes what levadas you can do and a map to help you arrive safely.
Visit Paul da Serra
The best option to visit Paul da Serra is to go by rental car since public transport is not a good alternative.
Anyway, it’s a pleasant walk, and you can even have a picnic with the family.
Many visitors travel to Paul da Serra to go hiking, and if that’s your case, see the most relevant information below.
Levadas in Paul da Serra
Lovers of nature walks will feel like they are in paradise when they arrive at Paúl da Serra.
There are trails in this area, including the famous levadas (next to watercourses) and veredas (dry trails).
Going on a hike like this needs some preparation, so take food and water, a coat, a flashlight if your trail goes through tunnels, and, very importantly, proper footwear.
Thus, in the Paul da Serra area, the best known trails are the Levada do Risco (PR5.1), the Vereda das 25 Fontes (PR 6), the Vereda do Fanal (PR13) and the Levada do Alecrim.
Taking the city of Funchal as a reference point, count on a journey of just over 30 km on the expressway (there are no tolls), that is, it should take about 40 minutes to reach Paúl da Serra.
Where is Paul da Serra: map and how to get to Paúl da Serra
Taking the city of Funchal as a reference point, count on a journey of just over 30 km on the expressway (there are no tolls), that is, it should take about 40 minutes to reach Paúl da Serra.
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