Last Updated on 2023-09-16
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.
Accomodation in Paul da Serra
When it comes to hotels and accommodation options in Paul da Serra, the largest plateau in the Portuguese island of Madeira, it’s important to note that there are no lodging facilities available directly within the area. As a result, most visitors choose to stay in the surrounding towns and villages, which offer a range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets.
During my recent visit to Paul da Serra, I opted to stay at Quinta da Saraiva, located in Câmara de Lobos. This charming hotel provided a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the plateau and its stunning surroundings. The staff was welcoming and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant and memorable stay.
Quinta da Saraiva boasts well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after a day of adventure. The hotel’s picturesque setting amidst lush gardens and vineyards added to its allure, providing a tranquil ambiance that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of Madeira.
Also, the location of Quinta da Saraiva proved to be advantageous, with easy access to Paul da Serra and other nearby attractions. The short drive from the hotel to the plateau allowed me to witness the breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views that Paul da Serra is famous for.
Although there may not be accommodations directly within Paul da Serra itself, opting for a hotel in the surrounding areas, like Quinta da Saraiva in Câmara de Lobos, ensures a comfortable and convenient stay while still being within close proximity to the plateau.
I highly recommend considering this hotel or exploring other accommodation options in the neighboring towns when planning your visit to Paul da Serra in Madeira.
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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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