The Levada do Alecrim is an unmissable trail. Want to know everything about Madeira? Click on ‘Madeira Things To Do. For information about Funchal is available in ‘Things To Do In Funchal‘.
The vegetation of the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounds us, and the view of the picturesque Calheta is equally captivating.
For those seeking an authentic connection with nature, this is the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the heart of Madeira’s lush forest.
Where does Levada do Alecrim begin?
The Levada do Alecrim starts on the Estrada Regional 105, which used to be the Estrada Regional 110.
As we venture through Rabaçal, we are struck by the stunning beauty surrounding us, with several Levadas to discover.
- Coordinates: 32.753596, -17.132712
How to get there:
Head towards Ribeira Brava on the Via Rápida (VR1). Then continue to the Via Expresso (VE3) towards Calheta and Ponta do Sol.
Upon reaching Arco da Calheta, take the first exit at the roundabout and follow the Estrada Regional (E.R.222). At the location known as Sítio do Loreto, follow the signs to Rabaçal, where you will find the trail on your right-hand side.
How long does it take?
The PR 6.2 Levada do Alecrim has a total distance of 6.8 km and is approximately 2.5 hours long.
Difficulty Level
Easy.
The Experience:
The starting point is right next to the parking lot, just a few steps away. Your feet are practically already there.
As we descend the paved road towards the Rabaçal Forest Station, you’ll notice the path to the Levada on the right, whispering an invitation.
With clear and precise markers, it seems to welcome us. No need for GPS or maps. Just look ahead and follow.
With its flat and gentle topography, it is accessible to almost everyone. It is not uncommon to encounter families with small children.
One of the surprises that await us is the unmistakable heather tunnels, which wind around the path like portals to another world full of surprises.
And so, one walks almost all the time in the shade, protected from the sun and surrounded by the singular beauty of this place.
As if in a dance, the landscape changes in shape and colour before your eyes, and the senses are flooded with the singular beauty of this place.
Along the way, it is common to come across unique species that can only be found here, like the Mountain Orchid, which seems to float in the air in vibrant pink and purple shades.
Only 500 meters separate the traveller from one of the most precious treasures of this place: the majestic Ribeira do Alecrim, whose crystal-clear waters feed the Calheta Hydroelectric Plant.
Along the way, we are presented with several lookout points that offer unforgettable views over the valleys and streams that stretch as far as the eye can see: the Rabaçal Valley and the Ribeira da Janela impose themselves majestically.
But not only incredible views live in this adventure. We discover new tributaries and streams sprouting from the ground.
After 3.5 km, we arrive at one of the most precious treasures of this trail: the splendid Lagoon of “Dona Beja,” which stretches out before your eyes like a mirror of crystal-clear waters.
You almost feel like diving into it. But the water is so cold… Better contemplate.
Around it, other small lagoons add enchantment to the scene. It is a moment of peace and contemplation.
After a well-deserved rest, the traveller returns on the same path, keeping the memories with them.
Last-minute tips
- There are no points of sale along the way, so be sure to bring water and food with you for your journey.
- Stay hydrated and well-nourished to have the necessary energy to fully appreciate the entire route.
- Wear comfortable clothes and appropriate footwear, especially during the rainy seasons.
- At the top of Rabaçal, the weather can be unpredictable and windy, so be sure to bring warm clothing to protect yourself from the cold.
Things to do nearby:
Madeira island boasts an abundance of natural beauty to explore. Here are just a few of the many things to see and do:
For those who enjoy hiking, the Levada do Risco and Levada das 25 Fontes are some of the most popular trails on the island, easily accessible from Casa do Abrigo de Rabaçal.
A must-visit location is tranquil and preserved Calheta Beach, perfect for basking under the scorching sun and diving into the crystalline waters of the ocean.
Another impressive attraction is the Cascata dos Anjos waterfall in Ponta do Sol, easily found by following the old regional road towards Funchal.
This magnificent spectacle captivates tourists and makes them stop to take photos.
Jardim do Mar is another beautiful seaside village, a delight for surfers, with three pebble beaches.
We cannot forget the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse, an unmissable attraction on the island’s western edge, perched on the rocky cliffs offering breathtaking ocean views.
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