If I have to name one of the most beautiful hikes in Madeira, that will be the Levada das 25 Fontes! Its lush Laurel forests, cheerful fauna and beautiful waterfalls are introducing a heavenly place to its visitor.
The levada starts at the parking lot of the Levada das 25 Fontes next to the regional road ER110. There you can enjoy a very beautiful view of Gazebo Rabaçal overlooking the whole landscape. After that, the path continues downhill to a swirling road, which will end at the trail’s signs. From there you can follow the path that will lead you to the Rabaçal cafe set in the middle of the lush forest. Then, follow the path to the 25 Fontes Falls, which is a half-caved waterfall. There you can stop for a break and have a little picnic to re-charge yourself.
After that, follow the sign to Risco waterfall, which will take you around an hour to reach, but it depends on your pace. The Risco waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls on the island and probably the loudest. Even if you are away from it, you will still hear the water falling from 100 meters height down to its pool.
However, if you still have more energy left I would suggest that you try to reach the Lagoa do Vento. The Lagoa do Vento is the waterfall over Risco waterfall and is not a path everybody takes on. The terrain is quite muddy and tough, but with proper hiking shoes you will do just perfect. The effort is definitely worth it and you will enjoy one of the best waterfall views on the island!
3 Comments
Tory
Like!! Thank you for publishing this awesome article.
Earthosea
Glad you like it, Tory!
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