PR 10 — Levada do Furado
Briefly
One of the oldest and most traditional levadas on Madeira, connecting Ribeiro Frio to the Portela viewpoint. It passes through a dense, lush Laurissilva forest where you can hear the endemic Trocaz Pigeon. The trail offers a mix of deep forest atmosphere and dramatic cliffside sections with views of the North coast.
Basic Information
Start: Ribeiro Frio
End: Portela Viewpoint (Linear)
Distance: 11 km (one way)
Time: 4 – 5 hours
Elevation gain: Slight descent
Difficulty: Moderate
Entrance: €4.50
Parking: Ribeiro Frio (Very limited)
Best season: All year round
How to Get There
Start in Ribeiro Frio (Santana municipality) on the ER103. The trail begins near the trout farm.
Open Ribeiro Frio on Google Maps
Important: This is a linear trail. Park at Ribeiro Frio and take a taxi back from Portela, or use public buses (103/56).
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots (sections are very muddy and slippery)
- Raincoat (it is often damp and misty in this forest)
- Water and snacks
- Flashlight (a few short rock overhangs)
Key Points
- Narrow Paths: Some cliffside sections are narrow and can be intimidating for those with severe vertigo, although most have wire railings.
- The Forest: This is one of the best areas to observe the native “Louro” (Laurel) trees.
- Portela Finish: The trail ends at the Portela viewpoint, famous for its view of Penha d’Águia (Eagle Rock).
- Trout Farm: You can visit the trout hatchery at the start of the trail in Ribeiro Frio.
Booking
Advance booking is mandatory.
Book here: SIMplifica
Madeira residents: Free entry, but booking still required.
Similar Trails
- PR 11 — Vereda dos Balcões: A tiny 1.5 km walk starting from the same spot.
- PR 9 — Levada do Caldeirão Verde: For another long, lush forest levada.
- PR 5 — Vereda das Funduras: Starts from the Portela finish point and stays in the forest.
Hiked this trail? Share your photos and current conditions in the comments! 