Most Inspirational Moment
Standing above the clouds on Pico Ruivo and watching them tumble over peaks and ridges. Enjoying a cold drink after successfully completing in beautiful weather the most strenuous walk of the week. Watching the firework display from the roof of our hotel on New Years Eve.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Andre was a good and most able leader on the walks. He was very concerned for our well being and safety. He knew the routes very well and shared his local knowledge and knowledge of flora with us. Andre came across as kind and considerate. He was very friendly and easy to get along with. His skills as a leader overall need to be developed. He could improve by giving daily information to the group, making sure that when he did everyone heard it.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you read other reviews, people’s views on the level of difficult vary, understandably as everyone’s ability varies. The following might be helpful, nb mileages are approximate. Walk 1 Ponta De San Lourenco, 5-6 miles manmade path several short ascents and descents. Walk 2, Levada Machico 9 miles almost all on level concrete path by Levada, one ascent and descent to cliffs on north coast. Walk 3, Caldera Verde 8 miles mainly on the level by Levada, with a slippery descent, steep in places at the end. Walk 4, Pico Ruivo 7½ miles, many ascents and descents lots of steps. Walk 5, Boca da Corida, 8 miles mostly uphill. I would say the walks were done at a steady pace with only a few stops.