The walk to the 25 Fontes, a pool fed by dozens of springs, is the most popular hike in Madeira. Combined with the short branch to the Risco waterfall, it shows the best of the Rabaçal valley in the heart of the laurel forest.
From the road at Rabaçal, a paved access road closed to private cars descends for about 2 km to the Rabaçal forest house. From there, the PR6.1 leads in a few minutes along a level levada to the Risco waterfall, which drops about 100 m into a green cirque.
The PR6 continues down steps to the Levada das 25 Fontes and follows it to the lagoon, where water pours from the moss-covered rock. The return is by the same path, with a climb back to the forest house and the road.
Start early: by late morning the path is very busy and the narrow sections have queues. Book your time slot on the SIMplifica portal if required, bring a waterproof jacket and shoes with grip, and keep in mind that the walk back up to the road is the hardest part. Guided hikes include transport and avoid the parking problem on the main road. Nearby, the Levada do Alecrim leads to a quieter lagoon.
About 11 km return including the Risco branch, or about 3.5–4 hours at an easy pace.
It is moderate: mostly level along the levadas, with steps and a steady climb back to the road. Some narrow sections have a drop on one side.
Swimming is not allowed in the lagoon, which is part of a protected area.
A guided day of walking along levada channels in the Rabaçal area, lasting about 8 hours. Suits walkers who prefer having a guide and a full day outdoors.
from €48 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
For independent walkers who like to set their own pace without a guide. There is enough time to complete both levada walks, 25 Fontes and Risco.
from €43 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A hiking day of about 8 hours in Rabaçal covering the 25 Fontes and Levada do Risco. Suits walkers who would rather have transport arranged than drive themselves.
from €42 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
Suits walkers who want levada channels, the Risco waterfall and endemic plants in about 4.5 hours. The route ends at the 25 Fontes lagoon, and the way back uses an 800 m tunnel.
from €45 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A full-day walk of about 8 hours around Rabaçal and the 25 Fontes. Suits those who want a levada-country outing planned for them; check the meeting arrangements when booking.
from €48 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
A coastal walk for those who enjoy seeing land meet the Atlantic. Expect views over Machico and its gardens, plus a viewpoint above the north coast on the Boca do Risco path.
from €48 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A guided levada and coastal hike led by a certified mountain guide, for walkers who prefer a small group to a crowd. Run by a small local company.
from €79 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A longer, tougher alternative to the standard 25 Fontes walk, for confident walkers. A guide leads a small group along levadas and laurisilva trails across the Rabaçal area.
from €79 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
Guided hikes Levada walks and mountain hikes with a guide and transport. 
Easy levada walks Flat, short and family-friendly walks. 
PR1 Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo The classic ridge hike between Madeira's highest peaks, one-way since 2026. 
Caldeirão Verde (PR9) Tunnels and laurel forest to a waterfall lagoon near Santana. 
Levada Nova A waterfall and cliff-side levada above Ponta do Sol. 