OpenMadeira
OpenMadeira
Tell me about the PR 19 Caminho Real do Paul do Mar hike in Madeira
💭 Thinking
The user is asking about the PR 19 Caminho Real do Paul do Mar hike in Madeira. I should use the find_hikes tool to get official information about this trail.The search returned 0 results. Let me try a broader search for "Paul do Mar" to see if the trail is listed under a slightlydifferent name.I have the trail details. Let me now check the current status, as the evergreen note says not to state open/closed, but the user asked about the trail and I should add a note about checking current status. Let me also get the description from the Visit Madeira page for more details. Let me also search for a video of this trail to offer.
How this was derived · 4 steps
TrailsMap & photos
Caminho Real do Paul do Mar6 photos
Caminho Real do Paul do MarCaminho Real do Paul do MarCaminho Real do Paul do MarCaminho Real do Paul do MarCaminho Real do Paul do MarCaminho Real do Paul do Mar
Photos: walkmeguide.com ↗
Official PR trail (IFCN) Community route (AllTrails — not official)
Photos: walkmeguide.com · green = official IFCN PR trail · amber = community route (AllTrails)

Here's what you need to know about PR 19 – Caminho Real do Paul do Mar:

PR 19 – Caminho Real do Paul do Mar
RoutePrazeres → Paul do Mar
Distance1.8 km
Duration~1 h 20 min
DifficultyModerate
Max altitude550 m
Min altitude16 m
Managed byIFCN
Access fee

This trail requires a paid access pass via the SIMplifica portal:

  • €4.50 – Visitors over 12 years
  • Free – Visitors 12 years and under
About the trail

The Caminho Real do Paul do Mar ("Royal Path to Paul do Mar") is a short but dramatic descent from the hilltop village of Prazeres down to the fishing village of Paul do Mar on Madeira's sunny southwest coast. The trail follows an old royal path (caminho real) — the historic route that once connected these communities.

Starting at around 550 m altitude, you drop steadily through terraced farmland and open hillside with sweeping views over the Atlantic, eventually reaching sea level at Paul do Mar (16 m). The descent is the main feature — it's moderately steep in sections, which is why it's rated moderate despite its short length. The path is well-maintained stone steps and compacted earth.

Highlights:

  • Panoramic ocean and cliff views throughout the descent
  • The contrast between the lush upland and the arid, sun-baked coast
  • Arriving in the charming fishing village of Paul do Mar — a great spot for fresh fish and a swim
  • A relatively quick hike that fits easily into a half-day
Getting there

▶ Directions to the trailhead ↗

The trail starts in Prazeres (municipality of Calheta). You can reach Prazeres by car or regional bus. Keep in mind this is a point-to-point hike — you may want to arrange transport back from Paul do Mar, or Factor in the uphill return if hiking both ways.

Before you go

Check the current trail status on OpenMadeira before setting out — trail conditions can change due to maintenance, weather, or seasonal restrictions. Also check the mountain weather forecast and any IPMA weather warnings for the area, as steep paths can become slippery in rain.

Photos from WalkMeGuide

Want me to check the mountain forecast and any weather warnings for the day you're planning to hike, or look into bus options to get to Prazeres?

OpenMadeira can make mistakes — check the sources.