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Follow the levada from Paul da Serra into Rabaçal to discover Risco waterfall and the pool where 25 springs pour into a small lake. This shaded, humid hike blends Laurissilva forest, volcanic cliffs and old irrigation channels for a memorable day on Madeira.
Follow the levada from Paul da Serra into Rabaçal to discover Risco waterfall and the pool where 25 springs pour into a small lake. This shaded, humid hike blends Laurissilva forest, volcanic cliffs and old irrigation channels for a memorable day on Madeira.
You step off the bus into a cool pocket of air where mist clings to the leaves and the ground angles away beneath your boots. The trail drops from Paul da Serra toward Rabaçal, and the sound of water grows from a whisper into a chorus; the Laurissilva forest tightens its grip, moss clinging to stone, while narrow levada channels guide you like old irrigation fingers.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Feeling Madeira - Tours & Walks · Rabaçal, Madeira
You step off the bus into a cool pocket of air where mist clings to the leaves and the ground angles away beneath your boots. The trail drops from Paul da Serra toward Rabaçal, and the sound of water grows from a whisper into a chorus; the Laurissilva forest tightens its grip, moss clinging to stone, while narrow levada channels guide you like old irrigation fingers.
This route threads two of Madeira’s most iconic features: the Risco waterfall — a ribbon of water falling from a cliff — and the Levada das 25 Fontes, where scores of small springs spill into a low emerald pool. Geologically, the valley is carved from volcanic basalt and deep erosion, forming steep amphitheaters that funnel water year-round. Culturally, levadas are a centuries-old irrigation network that shaped settlement and agriculture here; walking them is both a hike and a walk through human ingenuity.
Expect a largely shady trail with stone and compact dirt surfaces, a short tunnel you’ll pass through, and viewpoints that reward effort with spray and light. The loop is roughly 11 km round-trip with about 300–400 m of cumulative elevation change, taking 6–8 hours including stops. Footwear with grip and a waterproof layer matter; a headlamp for the tunnel is useful. Hike early to avoid crowds and reduce afternoon fog, carry water, and respect the fragile understory—stay on the path and pack out waste.
The experience balances quiet forest intimacy with sudden, cinematic views: streams that seem to dare you to follow them and cliffs that push the air cool and sharp.
moderate.
6–8 hours.
Suitable for hikers with steady aerobic fitness and experience on uneven terrain; comfortable on slopes and narrow levada paths.
The route is roughly 11 km round-trip with about 300–400 m of cumulative elevation change; allow 6–8 hours including stops.
Children who are steady on uneven ground can do the route, but supervise near steep drops and across narrow levada sections; not recommended for infants.
Facilities are limited; use services in the Rabaçal guesthouse or at the Rabaçal parking before you start and carry snacks for the hike.
No permit is required; many hikers go self-guided, but guides add local interpretation and logistics if you prefer not to arrange transport.
Levadas are a centuries-old irrigation system that brought mountain water to coastal farms; many trails follow channels carved by early settlers to support sugarcane and later agriculture.
The Laurissilva forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site; stay on trails to protect rare understory plants and avoid introducing non-native seeds.
Feeling Madeira - Tours & Walks operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step off the bus into a cool pocket of air where mist clings to the leaves and the ground angles away beneath your boots. The trail drops from Paul da Serra toward Rabaçal, and the sound of water grows from a whisper into a chorus; the Laurissilva forest tightens its grip, moss clinging to stone, while narrow levada channels guide you like old irrigation fingers.
You step off the bus into a cool pocket of air where mist clings to the leaves and the ground angles away beneath your boots. The trail drops from Paul da Serra toward Rabaçal, and the sound of water grows from a whisper into a chorus; the Laurissilva forest tightens its grip, moss clinging to stone, while narrow levada channels guide you like old irrigation fingers.
This route threads two of Madeira’s most iconic features: the Risco waterfall — a ribbon of water falling from a cliff — and the Levada das 25 Fontes, where scores of small springs spill into a low emerald pool. Geologically, the valley is carved from volcanic basalt and deep erosion, forming steep amphitheaters that funnel water year-round. Culturally, levadas are a centuries-old irrigation network that shaped settlement and agriculture here; walking them is both a hike and a walk through human ingenuity.
Expect a largely shady trail with stone and compact dirt surfaces, a short tunnel you’ll pass through, and viewpoints that reward effort with spray and light. The loop is roughly 11 km round-trip with about 300–400 m of cumulative elevation change, taking 6–8 hours including stops. Footwear with grip and a waterproof layer matter; a headlamp for the tunnel is useful. Hike early to avoid crowds and reduce afternoon fog, carry water, and respect the fragile understory—stay on the path and pack out waste.
The experience balances quiet forest intimacy with sudden, cinematic views: streams that seem to dare you to follow them and cliffs that push the air cool and sharp.