The PR6 takes you along the 25 Fontes (25 fountains) levada. This is a popular trail in Madeira, known for the numerous fountains and small waterfalls you’ll encounter at the endpoint.
Starting from Rabaçal and heading to the 25 Fontes, the path offers a variety of landscapes and opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna. It’s a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the surroundings. You could even take a dip in the chilly lagoon!
Our Experience
Rabacal – (11,8KM – 3 hours)
We parked our car at this upper car parking (which is just a small lane next to the ER105 road). Note: this is not the start of the hike yet. On the high side of the ridge, you can find a small pathway that we followed. Interestingly, there was a a bull on the path to welcome us. Following this path, we crossed the road again and ended up at the PR6.2. This was a beautiful peaceful paved path covered in trees. We followed this way and ended up at a great place called Rabaçal Nature Spot Cafe, where we had a coffee and some freshly baked sweets while enjoying the view! This was a great break to fuel our bodies for the afternoon.
We hiked several routes which are definitely worth to experience. First, we hiked the PR6. At one point there is a brief deviation from the primary trail – the PR6.1 Levada do Risco. It’s a few additional kilometers to reach, but it will undoubtedly be a decision you won’t regret.
Thereafter we hiked up towards the PR6.2, where the water in the levada goes really fast. The most stunning part where the levada turns into a descending stairs.
What to pack
- Hiking poles (nice to have)
- Enough water – at least carry 2 liters with you
- Small backpack
- Some energy bars
- Powerbank
- Potentially swimwear and a towel if you’d like to take dip in the lagoon
GPX Route
I’m a big fan of Komoot, so here you can find the route with distance, time, height differences all-in-one for this day: Route
