On the PR19 Caminho Real do Paul do Mar, we follow the footsteps of ancient islanders who used this path to transport goods between the coast and the interior. For a itinerary, check Maderia Portugal. For more information about Funchal, Things To Do In Funchal Town.
This trail is part of the Festival of Walking in Madeira, which takes place every January, and is a unique opportunity to explore the island’s enchanting landscapes through different routes with local experts. Discover this hidden treasure and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of Madeira.
The trail begins in the picturesque village of Prazeres. We descend 550 meters, uncovering the landscape secrets until we reach Paul do Mar, which lies on the shores of the Atlantic.
Where to start?
The trail starts near the Jardim Atlântico Hotel in Prazeres.
Map
Coordinates: 32.752467, -17.216988
How to get from Funchal?
We head west, following the VR1 road from Funchal and taking the VE3 until we reach Ribeira Brava. From there, we continue towards Prazeres, where charm awaits us around every turn. At the roundabout, we take the second exit towards the Lombo da Rocha road and follow its course until we reach the Jardim do Atlântico Hotel.
Distance and duration of the hike
The PR 19 Caminho Real do Paul do Mar is 1.8 km long and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
Difficulty level
The difficulty level of this trail is “Moderate”.
The experience
The trail starts with a steep descent from the village of Prazeres. Follows a paved path that weaves its way between small terraced agricultural plots, revealing the ingenuity of past generations who used this route to climb from the coast to cultivate and trade local products.
We pass the Miradouro do Lombo da Rocha, where the glittering sea spreads out on the horizon, with the picturesque village of Jardim do Mar to the left and the port of Paul do Mar to the right.
The landscape is stunning, with enormous black and green cliffs that abruptly collapse into the Atlantic.
Extra care is essential to the steep descent.
But the effort is worth it as the beauty of nature unfolds before your eyes. About halfway down, there is a rest area that provides a welcome break.
The path becomes more gentle as we descent.
At the trail end, we reach the picturesque harbor of Paul do Mar. The fresh sea breeze blows while our eyes delight in the majestic and rugged cliffs.
With the body tired and the mind calm, we observe with great attention the traces of the fishing past that still resist.
Last-minute tips
If you suffer from vertigo, be aware that this is an exposed trail on the slope.
Going downhill is always easier than going uphill. We recommend wearing shoes with good grip, as the path is steep. On rainy days, the trail may become impractical.
Before starting the hike, you can hire a taxi at the hotel to return to the starting point unless you are prepared for the ascent.
Always remember to bring water and use sunscreen.
Things to do nearby:
A few kilometres away, we find Calheta Beach, a true gem with sand brought from the Western Sahara that enchants all visitors.
Ribeira Brava has a rich history and culture proven by the ethnographic museum. The São Bento Church is one of the most religious heritage sites in the region.
Originating from a small 15th-century chapel, it contains a series of valuable religious paintings and artefacts.
Jardim do Mar, a picturesque parish with traditional houses and narrow streets, is famous for its powerful waves and long right-handers attracting surfers.
There, it’s possible to feel the authenticity of Madeira in every corner, with the ocean as a backdrop.
At Ponta do Pargo, the island westernmost point, we find a lighthouse and a vast panorama over the sea.
In Porto Moniz, on the north coast of the Island of Madeira, we find the famous natural saltwater pools formed by volcanic rocks, where the sea naturally enters. A wonder.
