A Living Relic of the Past

Deep in the heart of Madeira lies a forest unlike any other – the Laurisilva Forest, a lush, misty wonderland that’s been growing here for millions of years. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this rare type of subtropical rainforest covers about 20% of Madeira Island and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.

If you’re a nature lover, hiker, or eco-traveler, Madeira’s Laurisilva Forest offers an experience that’s both magical and meaningful. But what exactly makes it so special?

Why Is the Laurisilva Forest a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

The Laurisilva of Madeira was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999 – and for good reason:

• It’s ancient: The Laurisilva is a living remnant of a prehistoric forest type that once covered much of Southern Europe during the Tertiary period.
• It’s incredibly biodiverse: The forest is home to over 1,200 native plant species and dozens of rare birds, including the Trocaz pigeon, which is endemic to Madeira.
• It helps sustain the island: Thanks to its ability to capture moisture from clouds and mist, the Laurisilva plays a crucial role in feeding Madeira’s unique levada irrigation system.

This ecosystem is one of the last and best-preserved examples of laurel forest anywhere in the world – and it’s thriving in Madeira like nowhere else.

Hiking Through a Living Rainforest

One of the best ways to experience Madeira’s Laurisilva Forest is on foot. Fortunately, the island is crisscrossed with hundreds of kilometers of hiking paths – many of which pass directly through the forest. These trails fall into two main categories:

Levada Walks

Levadas are narrow water channels carved into the mountainsides, originally built to carry rainwater from the lush north to the dry south of Madeira. Alongside these channels are narrow paths that have become popular hiking routes, offering gentle gradients and stunning forest scenery.

Top Levada Walks Through the Laurisilva:

• Levada do Caldeirão Verde
  • Santana region
  • Distance: ~13 km round trip
  • Highlights: Dense forest, tunnels, waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring Caldeirão Verde lagoon.
• Levada dos Cedros
  • Paul da Serra
  • Distance: ~7 km
  • Highlights: Quiet, serene walk through untouched laurel forest with minimal elevation change.
• Levada do Alecrim
  • Rabaçal area
  • Distance: ~7 km
  • Highlights: Great for spotting rare plants and birds, ends at a tranquil lagoon.

Vereda Walks

Veredas are traditional mountain trails that can be steeper and more rugged than levada walks. These often traverse open ridges, volcanic peaks, and forests – offering more dramatic views and elevation changes.

Top Vereda Trails Touching the Laurisilva:

• Vereda do Fanal (PR13)
  • Fanal Forest
  • Distance: ~10.8 km (one way)
  • Highlights: Twisted, mist-covered trees in an otherworldly forest – perfect for photography.
• Vereda dos Balcões (PR11)
  • Ribeiro Frio
  • Distance: ~3 km round trip
  • Highlights: Short but iconic; leads to a panoramic viewpoint over the valley and across dense Laurisilva.
• Vereda da Encumeada (PR1.3)
  • Encumeada to Pico Ruivo
  • Distance: ~11.2 km
  • Highlights: One of the most rewarding hikes with both forest and summit views.

Wildlife and Flora You’ll Encounter

The Laurisilva isn’t just a pretty forest – it’s a biological treasure trove. As you hike, keep an eye out for:

• Trocaz pigeon (Columba trocaz) – Endemic to Madeira
• Madeiran firecrest – One of Europe’s smallest birds
• Til tree (Ocotea foetens) – A key laurel species
• Rare lichens, mosses, and mushrooms clinging to ancient trunks
• Dozens of insect species found only in Madeira

The constant mist and high humidity create an ideal habitat for these species, some of which date back millions of years.

Best Time to Visit the Laurisilva Forest

You can hike in Madeira year-round, but the best months to experience the Laurisilva in full glory are:

• Spring (April–June): Blooming wildflowers and excellent weather
• Autumn (September–October): Fewer crowds and rich green landscapes
• Winter (milder months): Still good for hiking, especially lower elevation levadas – but pack a raincoat!

Tips for Visiting the Laurisilva Forest

• Wear waterproof hiking shoes – trails can be slippery, especially near levadas.
• Bring a flashlight for tunnels (many levada trails pass through them).
• Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging sensitive flora.
• Always check weather conditions – sudden fog is common.
• Go with a certified guide for deeper insight into the flora, fauna, and geology.

Final Thoughts: A Hiker’s Paradise, a Natural Wonder

Whether you’re a casual walker or a serious trekker, the Laurisilva Forest in Madeira is a destination that delivers more than just beautiful scenery. It offers a journey through time, where you can walk among ancient trees, listen to rare birdsong, and witness a living ecosystem that has survived for millions of years.

Protected, pristine, and profoundly peaceful, this forest is more than a hike – it’s an unforgettable immersion in nature’s oldest masterpiece.