Ostrovnaya Trail to Okeanu — PR 13.1: Among Slopes and Clouds

Route at a glance

The shoreline continually changes perspective, moving between sheltered sections and exposed headlands. An unhurried pace leaves time to notice coastal paths, exposed headlands and sheltered bays rather than focusing only on the finish. Particular attention should be given to Ostrovnaia, PR 13.1 and Madeira levadas. These are the places that give the route its recognisable character.

Route suitability

Without a car Difficult

With children With caution

With a dog Yes

By bike No

With a stroller No

Mobile signal Patchy

Getting there

Without a car

From Funchal, use a regional bus to the nearest settlement; remote levadas and mountain trailheads are usually easier with a pre-booked transfer. Check whether the bus serves the start near the trailhead and plan the return journey. Because the start and finish are in different places, check the return service in advance, arrange a transfer or leave a second vehicle near the finish.

By car

Use the VR1/VE express roads and regional ER roads to reach the trail area. Final approaches to levadas are often narrow and steep, so stop at the signed parking area. Because the start and finish are in different places, check the return service in advance, arrange a transfer or leave a second vehicle near the finish.

Parking

Park in the signed area at the PR trailhead, viewpoint or nearby settlement. Do not leave a vehicle on a narrow Madeiran roadside where it can obstruct buses or residents.

What to expect

Ostrovnaia

PR 13.1

Madeira levadas

Difficult sections and safety

Long climbs and descents can slow the pace considerably, especially on wet or rocky ground. The finish is separate from the start, so arrange the return journey before setting out. Download an offline map and tell someone when you expect to return.

How much time to allow

Pure moving time - 1–1.5 hours Complete time on the route - 1–2 hours

Best time to go

Best time: June–September, when the main trails are usually clear of lasting snow

Ice, snow and rapid weather changes are possible at the beginning and end of the season

Check the full-day forecast for the higher parts of the route before setting out

What to bring

shoes with grippy soles

water and food

a charged phone with an offline map

a small first-aid kit

windproof and waterproof layers

a warm layer and a hat

trekking poles if you use them