Shore Excursions Group
Rabacal, 25 Fontes Walk
This full day adventure while in Madeira is a wonderful opportunity to experience one of the most beautiful levada walks in the Madeira area. You will be part of a small, intimate group in the company of a local, professional, fully qualified mountain guide, who along with you will embark on a 10 km (6.25 mile) hike that takes you into the rare, ancient laurel forest.
Along the way, your friendly guide will explain the local flora and fauna in this forest, which has been designated as a natural UNESCO World Heritage site. Incredible photo opportunities are along each step, soon you will be snapping Insta-worthy shots that will have your friends and family jealous of your vacation.
Your guide will also take you along the the 25 Fontes (25 fountains) levada with its 25 small fountains or waterfalls, that cascade into a picturesque lake. While on your walk you will come face to face with the 100 mile majestic Risco waterfall, coursing from the plateau of the Paul da Serra.
This adventure trek is approximately 4 to 4.5 hours of a moderate walk and is a must do for nature lovers and those who enjoy the great outdoors and exploring new places.
| Day 1 |
Nestled on the sun-drenched southern coast of Madeira, Funchal, the island's capital, offers an enchanting mix of old-world charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque city, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, is known for its lush botanical gardens, stunning vistas, and year-round mild climate. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic Old Town, Zona Velha, where colorful murals adorn the doors of traditional Madeiran houses, or visit the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, a lively market where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts. The aromas of exotic fruits, spices, and fresh seafood will transport you into the heart of Madeira's unique culinary heritage. For a breathtaking view of Funchal, take the cable car from the Old Town up to the hilltop village of Monte. Here, you can explore the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a verdant paradise filled with exotic plants, Koi ponds, and Asian-inspired sculptures. Don't miss the exhilarating toboggan ride down the winding streets of Monte – a traditional Madeiran experience where you’ll be whisked downhill in a wicker basket sled, guided by skilled carreiros. For those interested in history, the 15th-century Sé Cathedral, with its intricate wooden ceiling and striking Manueline-style architecture, offers a glimpse into Funchal's colonial past. Funchal is also renowned for its wine and its namesake Madeira wine, a fortified wine that has been produced on the island for centuries. Wine lovers can visit the Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the oldest winery in Madeira, to learn about the island's rich viticultural history and enjoy tastings of different styles of Madeira wine, from dry to sweet. Afterward, wander along the Avenida do Mar, a scenic promenade that runs along Funchal’s waterfront, where you can relax at one of the many cafes while watching yachts and cruise ships glide by. Fun fact: Funchal is known for its spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display, which was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2006 as the largest fireworks display in the world. Every year, the skies over Funchal Bay light up in a mesmerizing explosion of colors, attracting thousands of visitors to Madeira to celebrate the New Year in unforgettable style. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/03/22 - 04/09/27 |
Starting At $59 |
Get A Quote |
Guests must be able to walk a roughly 6.25 miles (10 kms) over 4.5 hours with varying terrain with inclines and steps. Due to the quick pace, this tour is not suitable for any mobility restricted traveler including guests who need to sit and rest periodically. Parents with small children should take the terrain into consideration and use a baby carrier instead of a stroller since the paths are not all accessible to baby carriages. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
