Madeira: Rabaçal 25 Fontes Walk & Risco Waterfall Day Trip

Summary

Rabaçal valley levada walk to waterfalls and forest lagoons

You’ll follow ancient levadas deep into Madeira’s Rabaçal valley with a local guide—past mossy cliffs, wildflowers, and two waterfalls including Risco and 25 Fontes lagoon. Expect muddy boots, fresh forest air, an 800-meter tunnel crossing, and stories about local plants you’d never spot alone. It’s less about rushing than soaking up each step—and maybe getting a little lost in thought along the way.

What’s the experience like?

“Careful, it gets slippery here,” our guide João called back as we started down from Paúl da Serra. I could hear water trickling somewhere below and—no joke—the air smelled like wet moss and eucalyptus, which I didn’t expect this high up. The path was narrow but not scary, just enough to make you pay attention. João stopped now and then to point out tiny Madeiran violets tucked under ferns (I’d have missed them), or to tell us how these levadas were dug by hand ages ago. He had this habit of pausing mid-sentence when a bird called—like he couldn’t help listening for them.

The first time we saw the Risco waterfall, it was just this white streak against all that green. It wasn’t loud, more like a steady hush in the background. We took a break there—some people pulled out snacks, someone else tried to skip stones but missed every time (I’m not naming names). Then we kept going along the second levada, the one that leads to 25 Fontes lagoon. The sun came through in patches, lighting up bits of water on the leaves. My shoes got muddy but honestly I didn’t care; it felt good just moving through that damp air with everyone chatting quietly or sometimes not talking at all.

I didn’t realize how many little waterfalls there’d be at the lagoon—twenty-five is right, but they’re all different sizes, some almost hidden behind rocks or roots. A couple from Lisbon asked João about the fish in the water (he said they’re introduced species) and then he pointed out a laurel tree that’s older than his grandmother. On the way back we went through this tunnel—800 meters long and pitch dark except for phone flashlights bouncing around. You could hear people’s footsteps echoing weirdly off the walls, and someone started singing but stopped after a few bars because it sounded so strange in there.

By the time we came out into daylight again my legs were tired but in that good way—like you’ve actually done something with your day instead of just ticking off sights. There’s still a bit of mud on my backpack from where I bumped into a wall in the tunnel (should’ve watched where I was going). Sometimes when I catch that earthy smell on my jacket now, it takes me right back to those green valleys and João telling us stories about Madeira’s old forests.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Levada do Rabaçal and 25 Fonts hike

• Start at Paúl da Serra
• Descend to Rabaçal valley
• Walk first levada to Risco waterfall
• Descend to second levada of 25 fountains
• View Rabaçal valley and endemic species
• Reach 25 fountains lagoon
• Return passing 800-meter tunnel

Top questions

How long does the Rabaçal 25 Fontes walk take?

The tour lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

The tour includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup arrangements available.

Do I need special fitness for this levada walk?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness; it isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are infants allowed on the Rabaçal walk?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What is included in the price of this tour?

The price covers all fees and taxes plus transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.

Is there a tunnel on this hike?

Yes, there is an approximately 800-meter-long tunnel you’ll pass through on your return route.

Will we see endemic flora or fauna during this walk?

The guide will point out endemic species of both fauna and flora throughout the route.

What’s included

Your day includes all entry fees and taxes covered upfront plus comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle—with hotel pickup arranged if needed—so you can focus on walking Madeira’s famous levadas without worrying about logistics or tickets along the way.