Madeira's Captivating Levadas: A Hiker's Paradise ⋆ Lifeguin

Waddling the Levada do Risco (PR6.1)

“Levada“ typically refers to Madeira’s irrigation channels or watercourses. There are numerous levadas on the island, with estimates ranging from 2,170 kilometers (about 1,348 miles) to over 2,500 kilometers (about 1,553 miles) of levada networks crisscrossing the landscape. These levadas are crucial in distributing water from the rainfall-rich northern slopes to the drier southern areas for agricultural purposes. Each levada is named and has its unique path and features, making them popular for hiking and exploring the island’s stunning natural beauty. Now waddle with us the Levada do Risco (PR6.1), also known as the hike of twenty-five waterfalls.

The Levada do Risco trail (PR6.1) promises an enchanting journey through lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls. This waddle is a nature lover’s dream, offering breathtaking views and an intimate connection with the island’s verdant beauty. It truly felt like being in a jungle. The diversity of Madeira never ceases to amaze us.

Our waddle:

- Waddle duration: 3 hours and 23 minutes
- Distance: 11,91 km (9,26 miles)
- Route: Red
- Map: link
- Things to see: Levada, waterfalls, Laurissilva forest, Rabacal

The total distance of the Levada das 25 Fontes hiking trail was around 11 kilometers out and back. It can be completed in under 4 hours, depending on how many pictures you take. This trail is very safe, and one of the most popular Levada walks on Madeira, so it’s very well maintained. There is 300m of incline to handle, the trail is marked, and there are no moments of danger on this very popular tourist route.

As you embark on this adventure, you’ll be greeted by a verdant tapestry of endemic flora, with laurel forests, as in Fanal Forest, and vibrant moss-covered trees providing a stunning backdrop. The trail follows a levada, which snakes through the rugged terrain, leading you to the awe-inspiring Risco Waterfall.

How to get to the Levada do Risco (PR6.1)

You can find Levada do Risco in the Rabaçal area, which is in the western part of Madeira. If you’re starting from Funchal, head west on the ER101 road. Continue on this road until you reach the town of Ribeira Brava. You will take the ER104 road north to the Rabaçal area.

Parking

Up top of the hill, there are two huge parking areas. We parked our rented car at one of them, which had plenty of space, though again, we came early in the morning. Both parking lots are free of charge. Note that both parking areas are located on top of the hill and it can get quite windy.

Our Waddle of the Levada das 25 Fontes

First, let us mention that our waddle started far from perfect. When we parked the car, we waited a couple of minutes, discussing what to do because outside, it was raining and so windy it moved our car a little 😅. But we don’t shy away easily, and dressed in waterproof jackets, we stepped outside. So before you go, pack all different kinds of clothes. When we started our ride to the levadas, it was sunny.

Levada do Risco offers a serene escape. The tranquility of the trail, punctuated by the soothing sound of flowing water, provides a perfect environment for mindfulness and rejuvenation. Additionally, the opportunity to witness the Risco Waterfall in all its natural grandeur is an experience that will stay with you forever.

As you waddle down the road (where, at a certain time, also a shuttle is available though we didn’t find any timetable nor did we see the shuttle, but the legend says it’s there 😅), you come to a small hotel/coffee shop. Here, you can book a night to stay or have coffee and a snack. There is also a bathroom, which is paid for 50 cents.

We only started our waddle, so we continued to the Risco Waterfall. The water went from rainy to sunny and back to rainy, but we didn’t mind as it added to the serenity around us. The deeper we waddled, the more beautiful it became. It felt once again being on a dirrerent planet. This is what we love about Madeira most.The diversity of the flora is out of this world.

The name “Levada das 25 Fontes” translates to “Levada of the 25 Springs” in English. The trail lives up to its name and will lead you to a stunning amphitheater-like valley where you can witness 25 natural springs emerging from the rock face, creating a mesmerizing cascade of water. On the waddle, we indeed encountered several springs but also waterfalls. We think the expectation is to see here 25 waterfalls so don’t be disapointed if you don’t. But the ones you will encoiunter will be worth it.

The levadas are really out of this world. The construction of levadas in Madeira began in the 15th century with the first settlers’ arrival on the island. The earliest levadas were likely finished in the early 16th century. These early levadas were crucial for distributing water across the island’s diverse landscapes, especially in areas where rainfall was less abundant. Over the centuries, the Levada system was expanded and improved upon, with new channels being added and existing ones modified. It was interesting to waddle along them.

We truly enjoyed the waddle around the levadas, and it was a genuine surprise to see even fish swimming in them. Their water is crystal clear, and imagining when they were built is breathtaking.

The Risco Waterfall

The Risco Waterfall was a fantastic turning point for us. Soaring at a height of over 100 meters (328 feet), it cascades gracefully down the moss-covered cliffs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s power and beauty. The continuous rush of water creates a soothing symphony that permeates the surrounding area.

The Risco Waterfall is surrounded by a lush, verdant landscape, but beware of the birds; they wanted to eat our snacks for sure. It started with one bird we shared our meal with and then his friends arrived, starting to be a little agressive. We didn’t bring anough food for them all 😅.

On the way back, we also stumbled on an almost 1-kilometer-long tunnel. It is another way to come here; usually, tours take eager hikers through it. It had vibes like the one form the Ghibli movie “Spirited Away“. Unfortunately, our car was parked in the opposite direction, but next time, we will waddle it for sure.

The Levada do Risco (PR6.1) trail provides a picturesque path through dense vegetation and an ancient irrigation channel, offering splendid views of the island’s rugged beauty. The trail culminates in a breathtaking viewpoint, allowing you to marvel at the majesty of the waterfalls and ancient trees.

Last minutes tips:

- It’s advisable to wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on extending your hike to explore more of the surrounding trails.
- Start your journey early in the day to avoid crowds and have ample time to fully appreciate natural beauty.

Every step of the journey from the ancient levada path to the magnificent Risco Waterfall was amazing and we can’t wait to discover the other levada trails.