PR6 | Vereda Das 25 Fontes & Do Risco

With a total length of 12 kilometers round trip and an estimated 4 hours of walking, this trail is perfect for those who want to be amazed by the richness and beauty of the surrounding nature. Both trails start on the road towards the Rabaçal valley, or more precisely, the parking area along the ER110 road, near the plateau da serra. They then diverge to follow two levadas (irrigation channels) at different altitudes.

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The PR 6.1 route (Do Risco) follows along the Levada 25 Fontes, located at 1000 meters in altitude, leading the hiker to an impressive waterfall that falls vertically, forming a streak in the rock. If you descend to PR 6, you can visit the Lagoa das 25 Fontes (Lagoon of the 25 Springs), formed by the waters coming down from Paul da Serra, where you'll count more than 25 springs, and eventually, you'll arrive at a cascade with a small pool where you can take a dip if you don't mind the cold.

Heathland dominates at this altitude, with a prevalence of tree heath and Madrean heath (Erica arborea and Erica scoparia ssp maderensis), as well as Madeira blueberry (Vaccinium padifolium) and other species, including the Mocan tree. These species are part of the Laurisilva forest of Madeira, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

Both levadas collect water from the tributaries of Ribeira Grande and supply the Calheta hydroelectric plant before irrigating the agricultural fields. This is a levada hike that should not be missed!