PR 15 — Vereda da Ribeira da Janela
Briefly
A steep and historical descent that follows the old path used by local farmers to connect the high plateau to the agricultural fields of Ribeira da Janela. It offers raw, vertical views of the North coast and passes through a dramatic landscape of cliffs and deep valleys. This is a physically demanding route due to the extreme elevation change.
Basic Information
Start: Curral Falso (Fanal)
End: Ribeira da Janela village
Distance: 2.7 km (one way)
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours (descent)
Elevation gain: Steep descent (~800 m)
Difficulty: Hard
Entrance: €4.50
Parking: Curral Falso (near Fanal)
Best season: All year round (Avoid after heavy rain)
How to Get There
The trail begins at Curral Falso, near the end of the PR 14 (Cedros) trail. It is located on the road between Fanal and Ribeira da Janela.
Open Curral Falso on Google Maps
Important: This is a linear descent. Unless you want to climb back up (extremely hard), arrange a taxi or transport from Ribeira da Janela village.
What to Bring
- Professional hiking boots (steep, rocky, and potentially slippery terrain)
- Trekking poles (essential to protect your knees)
- Water
- Windbreaker
Key Points
- Elevation: You are dropping nearly 800 meters in less than 3 kilometers. Your knees will feel it.
- History: This was the only way for locals to transport goods from the mountains to the sea for centuries.
- Views: Incredible perspective of the “Ilheus da Janela” (rock formations in the ocean) from above.
Booking
Advance booking is mandatory.
Book here: SIMplifica
Madeira residents: Free entry, but booking still required.
Similar Trails
- PR 19 — Caminho Real do Paul do Mar: Another legendary steep cliff descent.
- PR 20 — Vereda do Jardim do Mar: A similar historical coastal connection.
- PR 14 — Levada dos Cedros: A flatter forest walk that ends where PR 15 begins.
Hiked this trail? Share your photos and current conditions in the comments! 