25 Fontes & Risco Hiking Guide | Madeira’s Ultimate Levada Walk
Planning to hike 25 Fontes & Risco in Madeira? This ultimate levada guide gives you a clear breakdown of the route’s difficulty, what to pack, and the best starting points. Next, you’ll learn how to reach the trailhead by car or public transport. Finally, I’ll share insider tips to help you enjoy a smooth, unforgettable day on the levadas.
What is a levada?
A levada is a man-made irrigation channel unique to the island of Madeira, Portugal. These channels were initially built to transport water from the wet, mountainous north of the island to the drier, agricultural south, starting as early as the 16th century.
Table of Contents
- How Hard Are the 25 Fontes & Risco Hikes?
- Where is the starting point for 25 Fontes & Risco hikes?
- What to Pack for the 25 Fontes & Risco Hike
- How to Get to the Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) & Risco Waterfall (PR6.1)
- Insider Tips for the 25 Fontes & Risco Hike
- More Madeira Topics and Travel Resources
How Hard Are the 25 Fontes & Risco Hikes?
The Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) and its Risco Waterfall spur (PR6.1) form a convenient and efficient moderate out-and-back hike. Both trails share the same trailhead, with only a short detour separating them.
You start on PR6, following the Levada das 25 Fontes through Madeira’s lush laurel forest until you reach a junction where the trail splits.
One path leads to 25 Fontes, where several small streams flow into a calm lagoon.
The other heads toward Risco Waterfall, where water cascades over 100 metres down a moss-covered cliff.
On my hike, I visited the springs first. Then, I backtracked to the junction and took the short 800-metre detour to Risco. That extra walk was well worth it for the stunning waterfall views.
Finally, I retraced my steps along PR6 back to the trailhead, completing a 13 km route that combines two of Madeira’s most iconic levada hikes into one unforgettable day.
Where is the starting point for 25 Fontes & Risco hikes?
There are multiple starting points for the 25 Fontes hike, but the most common one is located along the ER105 road. This area has a large, free parking lot, although it tends to fill up quickly. From here, most hikers descend about 2 km along a paved road to reach the Rabaçal Forestry House. You can either walk this stretch or take the shuttle bus, which runs daily between 10 AM and 6 PM. Tickets cost 3 EUR one way or 5 EUR return.
The official PR6 trail begins at the Rabaçal Forestry House, leading to 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall.
Map source: mapy.com
The following details refer to an out-and-back hike from the main parking lot to the Levada das 25 Fontes, including a visit to the Risco Waterfall:
Distance
.svg)
Duration
.svg)
Difficulty
Ascent
Another starting point with a free parking lot is on the ER211 road. The Parque de Estacionamento Levada 25 Fontes is small and was the one I chose. On this route, the elevation is lower, and you will walk through a dark 800 m-long tunnel. Then, at a point, the routes will be the same, regardless of which starting point you choose.
Map source: mapy.com
The following details refer to an out-and-back hike from the small parking lot to the Levada das 25 Fontes, including a visit to the Risco Waterfall:
Distance
Duration
Difficulty
Ascent
What to Pack for the 25 Fontes & Risco Hike
Since this out-and-back hike covers approximately 10-13 km, it pays to pack wisely. Here’s what you shouldn’t leave behind:
- Headlamp or flashlight: for dark tunnels along the levada (if you don’t start from the main parking lot).
- Water: Stay hydrated on the trail.
- Energy-dense snacks: Nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars.
- Sturdy footwear: Waterproof hiking shoes or grippy sneakers.
- Cash: Useful for small expenses like the shuttle bus (3–5 EUR), toilet (0.50 EUR), or entrance fees (3 EUR).
- Layered clothing: A light fleece or windbreaker, plus sunscreen and a cap.
- Optional rain shell: Madeira’s weather can change quickly.
How to Get to the Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) & Risco Waterfall (PR6.1)
The easiest way to reach the PR6 trailhead is by renting a car. However, not everyone chooses this option, so there are also organised tours with a guide or self-guided tours that include pick-up and drop-off.
How to Get to the PR6 Trailhead by Car
If you’re renting a car, you have two free parking areas to choose from:
- Main parking lot (larger, more popular): Located along the ER105 road, this spot gives you quicker access to the trail but involves more ascent on the return hike.
- Lower parking lot (smaller, less known): Located on the ER211 road, this option involves less elevation gain but includes an 800-meter tunnel at the beginning of the hike, so bring a flashlight.
Both routes eventually merge, so no matter where you start, you’ll reach the same levada path. I started from the lower parking lot, and the tunnel experience added a unique touch to the hike.
How to Get to 25 Fontes & Risco by Organised Tour
You can choose between:
- A guided tour, where transportation and the hike are fully organised, so you can follow the guide and enjoy the scenery.
- A self-guided tour that includes pick-up and drop-off, giving you more flexibility while still solving transport logistics.
Insider Tips for the 25 Fontes & Risco Hike
Arrive Early or Late
Start your hike before 9 AM to avoid the crowds, especially during high season (April to October). Alternatively, arriving after 3 PM can offer a quieter experience, but make sure you finish before sunset.
Check the Weather Before You Go
Madeira’s mountain weather changes quickly. Look up the forecast for Rabaçal, not just Funchal. Avoid rainy or foggy days, as low clouds can block views of the waterfalls, and wet paths become slippery.
Facilities Are Limited
Toilets and a snack kiosk are available near the Rabaçal Forestry House, but there are no facilities on the trail. Bring enough water and snacks with you.
Wear Proper Shoes
The trail can be wet, rocky, and muddy. Wear waterproof hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip, especially around Risco Waterfall, where the path narrows.
Respect the Environment
Stick to marked trails, carry your trash out, and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants. Madeira’s levadas are part of a fragile ecosystem and a UNESCO-listed forest.
Leave a Reply