This levada is one of the most interesting and beautiful in Madeira, as well as one of the most popular. It runs through the popular Rabaçal area to the so-called 25 Springs (25 Fontes) – a small lake amidst green forests, into which some 25 small waterfalls cascade.

There is an entry fee for the trail, which costs 4,50 eur and must be booked online atsimplifica.madeira.gov.pt.

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The levada begins at a gamekeeper’s lodge, now a tourist cottage serving refreshments: the Rabaçal Nature Spot Café.

First, you must descend the steps to the levada itself, along which you’ll continue more or less along the contour line through a dense laurel forest and heather-covered slopes, with strips of lichen hanging everywhere. The ancient trees arching over the levada create natural green tunnels in places, only to part briefly after a few metres and offer breathtaking views of the steep, green valley.

The path running alongside the irrigation channel is very narrow in places, but handrails have been installed wherever necessary. In winter and spring, water from the levada often overflows onto the path, so be prepared to get your shoes wet. The final short stretch to the waterfalls themselves involves walking over large rocks.

• Distance – 2.3 km one way – can be shortened by approx. 800 metres via the levada to Risco
• Time – approx. 1 hour there + 1 hour back
• Difficulty – moderately difficult; the last 200 metres or so are trickier
• Route map

You’ll also need to factor in the stretch from the car park to the actual start of the route, which follows a tarmac road. It’s 2 km one way.

However, you can use the shuttle minibus for 8 eur return, which runs approximately twice an hour. Payment is by cash only.

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