Testing Madeira's 'Way for All' Trail: An Accessibility Review
Madeira is renowned for its rugged landscapes and winding trails, and the island is actively working to make these natural wonders accessible to as many travellers as possible. I embarked on a journey to test the Levada do Caldeirao, a trail advertised as the Caminho Para Todos, or 'Way for All', to see if it lives up to its promise for people with motor and visual disabilities.
The Trail Experience
Starting at Parque Florestal das Queimadas and finishing at Pico das Pedras, this 1.9km trail runs at an elevation between 870m and 890m. As someone who uses a full leg brace and crutches due to a paralysed leg from an illness in the early 1990s, I am passionate about outdoor accessibility. The pathway, though not tarmacked, features compact earth with occasional stones and wooden railings along its entire length, providing a solid foundation for most of the hike.
For about 90% of the walk, the trail offers stunning natural beauty, with laurel-laden hills, eucalyptus scents, and a gurgling Levada stream. However, 10% of the path presented challenges, such as thick mud patches that required careful navigation. I noticed wheelchair marks in the mud, highlighting potential hindrances for others. These issues could be mitigated with simple improvements like raised aluminium pathways or concreted sections to better align with the 'Way for All' billing.
Madeira's Accessibility Efforts
Despite these frustrations, Madeira has made significant strides in accessibility. The island offers accessible facilities at trailheads, including a large car park and café at Parque Florestal das Queimadas. Public transport is modern, with buses featuring ramps, and taxi services provide adapted vehicles. Specialised tour companies, such as Madeira Accessivel by Wheelchair and Wheelchair Accessible Madeira, offer half-day or day tours, including options with off-road scooters for limited hikes on narrow Levadas.
Another accessible trail, Levada do Paul II, is available further west, measuring 1.2km for more options. Additionally, attractions like Cabo Girao's glass skywalk at 589m offer wheelchair lifts to enjoy breathtaking views, showcasing Madeira's commitment to inclusivity.
Why Accessibility Matters
After completing the hike, I returned to the trailhead with muddied clothes but high spirits. The Caminho Para Todos may not be perfect, but it underscores the importance of making natural beauty accessible to all. Madeira's efforts, from its tunnels and mountain roads to its coastal cliffs, provide a sense of discovery for every traveller. While execution can occasionally falter, the island's dedication to accessibility is clear, offering memorable experiences that should not be reserved solely for the non-disabled.
