Starting from the high, windswept plateau of Paul da Serra at the famous Rabaçal forestry station, Levada do Alecrim is an absolute superstar of a hike. Known as the "Rosemary Levada" due to the abundant wild heather and rosemary shrubs lining the trail, this path is highly celebrated for being one of the most beautiful, flat, and family-friendly walks on the entire island.
🥾 The Trail Profile: This is an easy, mostly flat 7 km out-and-back trail (about 3.5 km each way) that takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours to complete. It is the perfect, stress-free alternative to the steeper, heavily crowded 25 Fontes trail that starts from the exact same parking lot.
🌿 Stunning Valley Views: As you wind along the fresh water channel, the forest opens up to reveal massive, jaw-dropping panoramic views across the lush, green Rabaçal and Ribeira da Janela valleys below.
🏊♂️ The "Lagoa de Dona Beja" Oasis: The absolute crown jewel of the hike is the endpoint. The levada leads you straight to its source at the Ribeira do Lajeado, where a stunning waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear, emerald lagoon. It is a spectacular spot to sit on the giant rocks, eat a packed lunch, or brave a freezing mountain swim!
💡 Quick Tips:
☀️ Beat the Rabaçal Traffic: Rabaçal is arguably the most famous hiking hub on the island, and the main parking lot fills up completely by 9:00 AM. Arrive early in the morning or head out in the late afternoon to secure a parking spot and enjoy a peaceful trail.
🧥 Pack Layers: Because the trail sits high up on the plateau at around 1,300 meters above sea level, the weather can change in a flash. It can be sunny and warm one minute, and foggy, windy, or chilly the next-bring a light rain jacket just in case!
🎒 Extend to Lagoa do Vento: If you reach the main lagoon and feel like a bigger adventure, look for the signposted detour path that cuts downhill toward Lagoa do Vento. It takes you to the top of a massive, dramatic cliff where the water drops into a giant pool below.
🚌 Bus Info:
Because Rabaçal sits high up on the remote Paul da Serra plateau, public transit buses do not drive up here. The best way to experience it is by rental car, booking a guided hiking excursion, or taking a dedicated hiker shuttle bus from Funchal or Calheta! 🥾💦✨
