PR 19 - Caminho Real do Paúl do Mar

This trail is located in the western area of Madeira Island and connects the parish of Prazeres to Paúl do Mar, from 550 meters altitude down to the sea.

Right at the beginning of the trail, you'll encounter the Miradouro do Lombo da Rocha viewpoint and the view from here is superb, as the beautiful landscapes provided, both to the left by the picturesque parish of Jardim do Mar, and to the right by Paúl do Mar, constitute an authentic delight.

On this trail, besides the waterfalls and panoramic views, the geological beauty is equally attractive given the alternation between basaltic dykes and ochre-colored rocks.

This trail winds along the hillside through cobblestone paving in small steps, constituting an authentic historical heritage, called "caminho de concelho" or "caminho real" (royal road). It's an example of the difficult access routes that were once frequently traveled with heavy loads on one's back, as the only alternative to maritime connection, which was too expensive for many and impossible when the sea was rough.

In Paúl do Mar, don't miss exploring this small parish, its fishing port with its characteristic fishing boats, and admiring the great cliffs that embrace it.