This cache is hidden along the well-known walking trail Levada dos tornos, on the beautiful Island of Madeira, Portugal. More precisely between the villages of Monte and Romeiros
The location:
The island of Madeira is at the top of a massive shield volcano that rises about 6 km (20,000 ft) from the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. The Levada dos tornos walking trail takes some effort but is definitely worth it.
Background:
As a tour guide I happen to travel quite a bit to all parts of the world. My daughter was born in 2005. She is still too young to travel with me, therefor I decided to hide caches especially for her in all countries I visit. The caches contain some objects she likes, some photos and a personal message. One day she will be old enough to travel on her own, and maybe she'll have fun finding the "treasures" her old man left behind for her.
The cache:
This cache is a red cylindrical plastic container. It holds a logbook, a pencil, and a few items for exchange. There is also a sealed plastic bag clearly labeled "NOT FOR TRADE". this bag contains personal items for my daughter. Please leave its content as is. Do not take or add anything. Thanks!
However, you are invited to leave your name and some thought in the logbook, and to take one of the exchangeable items, and leave something for my daughter.
How to get there:
The trail head in Monte can easily be reached from Funchal, Madeira's capital, by car, bus, taxi or cable car (teleferico).
You can start walking the trail at Babosas, Monte, next to the cable car. However, due some interruptions in the beginning of the trail you could also take an an alternative route beginning at Choupana.
Along the way, done side by side with the levada you can admire several species of flora and fauna of the region. Occasionally, there are fantastic views over the bay of Funchal, offering a full perspective of the city composed of a dense set of picturesque buildings that have as background the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean that bathes this wonderful island.
You should not have too much trouble to locate the red container.
Muggles:
The only muggles you might see here will be some local farmers or walkers on the levada trail. If you bump into them, just wait a while. Make sure to be discrete.
Advice:
- During the trekking, take water and some snack. There is nothing available underway.
- Take sun protection.
- Wear good, sturdy walking shoes!
Maintenance Plan
As a trekking guide I take tour groups all the time on this walk. Those visits allow me to maintain the cache on a regular basis. Please inform me if you notice any problem, e.g. if the container got damaged or a new logbook is needed. I'll take care of it asap.