25 Fountains: Our most recommended tours and activities

Madeira Day Trip: Levada Walk in the Rabaçal Valley

1. Madeira Day Trip: Levada Walk in the Rabaçal Valley

Depart Funchal and journey to the start of your walk, where you will follow the routes of the "levada" irrigation system developed in the 16th century by Madeira's first settlers. Descend from the plateau of Paul da Serra to the Rabaçal guesthouse and walk to the waterfall of the Levada do Risco. Continue towards the Levada das 25 Fontes, dominated by moorland at its highest point. Walk until you reach a small lagoon at the bottom of an enormous cliff, and marvel at the sight of 25 natural springs cascading into the lake. Return along a different path, passing through a tunnel that carries water to the south of the island. Admire a wide variety of endemic flora and fauna along the way.

Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains

2. Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains

Discover the waterfalls of Rabaçal on this guided hike. Enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off in an airconditioned bus from several points on the island of Madeira. Immerse yourself in the unique flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation and sit back and relax on the drive to the Rabaçal reserve. Follow your guide on a trail of intense natural beauty that is brimming with waterfalls. Look for local flora and fauna as you walk through this lush wonderland. Pass by 25 natural springs which fall into a small crystal clear lake that is surrounded by dense vegetation. Listen to the falling water and the chirping of birds. Return to your accommodation by bus at the end of your tour.

Madeira: 25 Fontes and Risco Levada Hike with Transfers

3. Madeira: 25 Fontes and Risco Levada Hike with Transfers

Experience a different perspective on hiking: at your own rythym. With pick up and drop at your accommodation*, enjoy a Self Guided hike and visit the one of the most famous walk in Madeira: 25 Fontes and Risco Levada. Our schedules allow you to "skip the line" and have the path almost to yourself, during the first hours. Program: The guests are picked up at their accommodation to join a shared transfer (up to 8 guests per van), in direction to the 2nd famous hike in Madeira - 25 Fontes in Rabaçal (beggining). The hosts provide hike instructions and map explanation, with schedules. You will have 5 hours to do both paths "25 Fontes" and "Risco", ending at the cafe - Casa do Rabaçal. The pick up and drop of locations are the same (parking lot). Hike Information: - Duration: 5 hours - Extension: 10 km - Starting Point: Parking Lot 25 Fontes - Ending Point: Parking Lot 25 Fontes - Max Elevation: 1300 m - Min Elevation: 1000 m Transfer Information: - Capacity: 8 people - From the city to Rabaçal: average 1.5 hour - From Rabaçal to the city: average 1.5 hour - *Pick up/Drop off limits: Funchal, central area of Camara de Lobos and Caniço areas Weather conditions are very unpredictable in this part of the island. Your reservation can be canceled or postponed. The day before the hike, you will receive (via email or WhatsApp) the exact pickup time and a weather forecast, in order for you to be as prepared as you can be. The schedules presented may be altered in case of delay in traffic, bad weather conditions or even delay by the guests.

Small Group Walks Rabaçal 25 Fontes

4. Small Group Walks Rabaçal 25 Fontes

The Rabaçal 25 Fontes walk starts in the Rabaçal, a walk through the middle of the Laurissilva forest, through the irrigation canals that reach the lagoon from the 25 Fontes. The origin of the name of the Levada of the 25 Fontes is due to the fact that there is a lagoon with 25 springs at the end of Levada, it is the most beautiful point of the whole walk with a large waterfall falling into a small lagoon. Throughout the tour you have an immense variety of species of flora and fauna  to gaze at on the island of Madeira. This Levada has a small passage from the north coast to the south coast, with a very interesting history due to its origin and the way it was built. It is one of the most famous of all the islands because of the unforgettable landscapes and sensations along the whole walk.

Madeira: Rabaçal Valley and the 25 Fountains hike.

5. Madeira: Rabaçal Valley and the 25 Fountains hike.

Begin your half-day tour with a drive before starting your levada walk at Paúl da Serra in the area of Rabaçal. Enjoy the amazing waterfalls and springs as you soak up your beautiful surroundings. On the walk, observe the Valley of Rabaçal with your mountain guide. Visit a fantastic waterfall before going down to the Levada of 25 Fountains. Along this levada, keep your eye out for a great variety of plants native to Madeira. Head to the waterfall of the Levada of 25 Fountains, and admire its pond.

Madeira : Rabaçal - Risco - 25 Fountains Walk

6. Madeira : Rabaçal - Risco - 25 Fountains Walk

Embark on an exhilarating journey starting at the Rabaçal Forestry Station, nestled in the picturesque Paúl da Serra region. This captivating walk opens the door to both the enchanting Levada do Risco and the captivating Levada Nova do Rabaçal, presenting an exploration opportunity like no other. Venture along this path of moderate difficulty, spanning a scenic 11 kilometers. Begin by tracing the path of the Levada do Risco, leading you to the mesmerizing waterfall that shares its name. Cascading waters and lush surroundings set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Descend further to seamlessly transition onto the Levada Nova do Rabaçal, an enchanting route guiding you toward the awe-inspiring lake known as 25 Fontes. The name pays homage to the multitude of waterfalls that adorn this breathtaking locale. As you traverse the trail, you'll find yourself immersed in the unique flora of Madeira Island. The journey showcases the island's indigenous and endemic plant life, with a special focus on the high-altitude vegetation that paints the landscape. Marvel at indescribable vistas that stretch over this protected area, offering panoramic views that stir the soul. Concluding this captivating escapade, your return journey to the south coast of the island unfolds through the mesmerizing Cavaleiro tunnel. Stretching over approximately 800 meters, this tunnel serves as a fascinating conduit between two worlds, bringing you back to the coastal splendor that defines Madeira. Unveil the beauty of Rabaçal and its surrounding wonders on this exploration that weaves together nature's finest elements. Let the enchantment of waterfalls, lush foliage, and panoramic viewpoints create memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Madeira : Walking Tour-Rabaçal /25 Fontes

7. Madeira : Walking Tour-Rabaçal /25 Fontes

Rabaçal/25 Fontes This is one of the most iconic and most accomplished hikes in Madeira; it is a true feast for the senses. Along the trail you can enjoy centuries old laurels and heathers, as well as the unforgettable 25 waterfalls and fountains, all living up to its name. Recommendation: bring a hiking stick, appropriate footwear and water.

Rabaçal PR6: 25 Fontes, Risco Transfer for self-guided hikes

8. Rabaçal PR6: 25 Fontes, Risco Transfer for self-guided hikes

Embark on a self-guided hiking adventure to the picturesque Rabaçal area with our convenient roundtrip transfers. Let us take care of the transportation as you immerse yourself in the lush beauty and natural wonders of this captivating region. Whether you're an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast, this hassle-free transfer ensures you can focus on exploring the stunning trails and breathtaking landscapes of Rabaçal. Enjoy a seamless journey and make the most of your hiking experience with our reliable roundtrip transfers. Every Friday, departure from Funchal: Start: Funchal Center - 07h35 | Miramar, Lido II - 07h45 | Meliá Mare, Lido I - 07h55 | Ajuda - 08h05 Return from Rabaçal Tunnel (Calheta ER 211): 14h30

Madeira: Private Walking Tour of Levada das 25 Fontes PR6

9. Madeira: Private Walking Tour of Levada das 25 Fontes PR6

After being picked up from your hotel, begin your adventure in Rabaçal and start your walk towards Levada das 25 Fontes along a gorgeous scenic route. Along the way, admire a range of native flora and fauna with an expert guide at your side. After reaching your destination, immerse yourself in the unique natural environment of Levada das 25 Fontes, discovering the famous 25 waterfalls and the magnificent lagoon located here. Pause to soak up the atmosphere and, if you feel like a swim, dive into refreshing waters.

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What people are saying about 25 Fountains

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 434 reviews

The pickup was early, at about 7am. This allowed us to get to the trail nice and early (one of the first) before everyone else, especially the big tour buses arrive. We had communication through WhatsApp before the trip where information we shared like the walk map with info, weather forecast, pickup info and just an opportunity to ask any questions. Our trip was almost cancelled due to the weather but we were cleared to go ahead. We were picked up on time and got to the trail early. The guide explained the route of the walk and gave 5 hours to leisurely complete the 25 falls and the Risco walks as well have a snack/drink at the café. If everyone finished early, we had an opportunity to get picked up earlier as we had the contract information. We got some checking in messages through the walk as well. There is also an option to get a 3€ minibus from café area back up to the meetup place for who doesn't want to walk. We did a slightly extended route back to Funchal to see the coastline.

What an amazing day! Our guide Sara, was knowledgeable, professional and warm. The walk was incredibly beautiful and I highly recommend doing it while you are in Madeira.

Absolutely fantastic special The lady of the instructor and also the driver Excellent thank you very much

It wasn’t that easy going But we’ll worth all the steps up and down Easier walking along the levadas

Great activity. Levada walk, passing through beautiful landscapes and visiting the 25 Fountains.