Levada das 25 Fontes — 25 Springs★★★
The Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) and the neighboring Levada do Risco are a double feature that ranks among Madeira's most photogenic hikes. Both start at the same point and lead through dense laurel forest to a spectacular waterfall finale.
Levada das 25 Fontes
Start: Rabaçal Forestry Park (parking lot at 1,290 m, shuttle bus or 2 km descent to the starting point)
Length: 9.4 km (circular route over both Levadas possible)
Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to medium
The path follows the Levada through the laurel forest, through a short tunnel and past moss-covered rocks to a breathtaking finale: a natural amphitheater where 25 springs (Fontes) gush from the rock wall, feeding a waterfall that cascades into an emerald green pool. The place has an almost mystical atmosphere — especially in the mist, when the waterfall shimmers through the clouds.
Levada do Risco
Only 1 km from the 25-Fontes junction: a 100-meter high, vertical waterfall plunging into a deep gorge. The hike there is easy (20 minutes from the junction) and impressive. The Risco waterfall is especially magnificent after rainy days — a white column of water thundering from the rock edge into the depths.
Combination Tip: Both Levadas can be perfectly combined as a circular route: descent to the Rabaçal starting point, first Levada do Risco (short), then back and continue to 25 Fontes, and on the return via Levada do Risco back. Total duration: 3–4 hours.
