The PR6.1 Levada do Risco is one of the easiest and most rewarding walks on Madeira. It shares its start with the PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes in Rabaçal and follows a levada through dense laurel forest to the Risco viewpoint, where a tall waterfall drops vertically down a dark rock face.
PR6.1 at a glance
- Start: Rabaçal, regional road ER 105
- End: Risco viewpoint (return the same way)
- Distance: 1.5 km one way, 3 km there and back
- Duration: approx. 2 hours
- Difficulty: easy
- Altitude: between approx. 1,000 and 1,290 m
- Booking: mandatory via the SIMplifica portal
The route
From the road you walk down to the Rabaçal forest house, where the trails split. The Levada do Risco is flat and wide for most of the way, surrounded by green forest at around 1,000 metres altitude. At the end, the Risco miradouro opens up onto the waterfall – one of the most photogenic spots in the west of the island. If you still have energy, you can continue on the PR6 to the 25 Fontes lagoon.
Booking and fees
PR6.1 must be booked in advance on SIMplifica. The fee is €4.50 per person; children up to 12 and Madeira residents are exempt.
Fees and rules can change – check SIMplifica before you go.
Tips
- One of the best family hikes on Madeira – short, flat and with a big reward at the end.
- Combine it with the PR6 for a longer day in Rabaçal.
- Arrive early: parking along the ER 105 fills up quickly.
FAQ
Is the Levada do Risco suitable for children?
Yes. It is officially rated easy and ideal for the whole family.
Can I combine Levada do Risco and 25 Fontes?
Yes. Both trails start at the same point in Rabaçal, so many hikers walk to the Risco waterfall first and then continue to the 25 Fontes lagoon.
Keep exploring
Browse all trails on our hiking overview or see them on my hiking map.
