There are 2500km of Levadas on the island. Walking the paths which run alongside the water courses is a spectacular way of seeing Madeira island. The holiday apartment is located a short distance from many of the islands best walking opportunities. Three of these are detailed below to whet the appetite. These walks are safe for people wishing to undertake a self guided walking holiday. Walking tours can be booked locally if you would like to be part of a larger group.
The Levada Nova is the local levada. For a spectacular yet easy 3-4 hour walk catch the bus from Calheta to Prazares and walk back along the levada to the road which descends to Calheta. Plenty of picnic spots along the way.
Rabacal's levadas offer a variety of walks to suit all abilities. It is only a 15 minute drive from the apartment. A favorite is the route to Cristo Rei (you can go further if you wish). The views on this route are beautiful. You may on occasions be walking above the clouds. At other times you have great views of Calheta and other coastal villages.
A magnificant and unusual circular levada walk. Follow the road to Lombada do Ponta do Sol. Park at the large pink building by the church. Walk alone the Levada until you reach its source. This is an ideal picnic spot. For the return journey walk along the second levada above the one used for the outward route. You will shortly pass under a waterfall (pictured) then through a tunnel. Upon reaching the road walk downhill back to the start point.
The Sunflower 'Landscapes of Madeira' guide is highly recommended for those who wish to undertake a self guided Levada walking holiday. Visit the publisher's website here
If you wish to join a guided walk these can be arranged locally with RMK tours at Calheta Marina
The Levada Nova is the local levada. For a spectacular yet easy 3-4 hour walk catch the bus from Calheta to Prazares and walk back along the levada to the road which descends to Calheta. Plenty of picnic spots along the way. 
Rabacal's levadas offer a variety of walks to suit all abilities. It is only a 15 minute drive from the apartment. A favorite is the route to Cristo Rei (you can go further if you wish). The views on this route are beautiful. You may on occasions be walking above the clouds. At other times you have great views of Calheta and other coastal villages. 
A magnificant and unusual circular levada walk. Follow the road to Lombada do Ponta do Sol. Park at the large pink building by the church. Walk alone the Levada until you reach its source. This is an ideal picnic spot. For the return journey walk along the second levada above the one used for the outward route. You will shortly pass under a waterfall (pictured) then through a tunnel. Upon reaching the road walk downhill back to the start point.