Paul da Serra is Madeira's largest and highest plateau, sitting at an average altitude of 1,400 meters. Often described as the "Island's Moorland," it offers vast, flat landscapes that contrast sharply with the rest of the island's steep terrain. It is the starting point for some of Madeira's most famous levada walks, including the 25 Fontes and Risco waterfalls.
Getting there and back
Which route
Where to board
Boarding reference: Funchal. Select a journey that names Ribeira Brava; check the route page for the correct direction and any branch notes. The town name alone does not identify a boarding bay.
From the stop
Ribeira Brava → Paul da Serra. The bus reaches the named town only. Arrange a taxi or tour transfer to the destination and a pickup back to the bus stop; do not treat the remaining road as a verified walking connection.
The way back
Agree the pickup location and return transport before starting. Leave room for the road transfer before your chosen bus; a through ticket or guaranteed connection is not established. Choose the last usable return on the route page before leaving. Use its dated timetable where available, otherwise its linked SIGA sheet. Match the day, direction and stop; a departure from the terminus is not a departure from your stop.
Good to know
- Agree the pickup location and return transport before starting. Leave room for the road transfer before your chosen bus; a through ticket or guaranteed connection is not established.
- The bus sources name stops, but do not establish a step-free walking route or the entrance location. Check the final approach and the return boarding point before leaving the bus.
No SIGA route serves the Paul da Serra plateau. Route 340 reaches Ribeira Brava; arrange a separate transfer from there to the plateau and back.
What to see at Paul da Serra
The vast plateau is perfect for photography, especially when the clouds sit below the altitude level. Explore the area around Rabaçal to find the trailheads for the famous PR6 (25 Fontes) and PR6.1 (Levada do Risco). The plateau is also home to Madeira's wind farm and several grazing lands for cows and sheep.
Best time to visit
Summer is generally the clearest time to visit, but the plateau can be exposed and hot. Spring and Autumn are ideal for hiking. Be prepared for rapid weather changes; it can be sunny on the coast but foggy and cold on Paul da Serra at the same time.
