The Levada Nova above Ponta do Sol has a memorable moment where the path runs right behind a waterfall: you walk through the spray under the rock overhang. A quieter, more local route than the famous Rabaçal trails, about 8 km as the usual loop from the Lombada church, with some narrow exposed levada edges. Scenery includes terraced farmland, banana plantations and ocean views. You will get sprayed walking behind the falls. Bag your phone. This is not a classified PR trail, so no booking is needed. Warning: narrow levada edges with sheer drops. Watch your footing on wet sections.
Levada Walk
Levada Nova Walk-Behind Falls
Ponta do Sol · South
Photo: muffinn from Worcester, UK · Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Guides that mention it
Hiking and levadas Free Levada Walks in Madeira: What Still Costs Nothing in 2026 Since January 2026 most classified trails in Madeira cost €4.50. These walks are still free, with no booking, and here is what you give up. Read 9 min Hiking and levadas Best Levada Walks in Madeira: Nine Picks and Honest Notes The best levada walks in Madeira for 2026, picked by what you want from the day, with fees, times, parking and how you get back to the car. Read 12 min Hiking and levadas Madeira Hiking Fee 2026: Who Pays €4.50, and Who Doesn't Madeira's trail fee is €4.50 a person per classified trail in 2026, €10.50 for the full PR 1. Under-13s and residents walk free. Who pays what. Read 8 min
