PR 6.4 - Levada Velha do Rabaçal

Starting at Pico Gordo on ER105, hikers walk 800 meters before reaching Levada Velha do Rabaçal, then continue 5 km in 2 hours to Casa do Rabaçal. The route features one of Madeira's most historically significant tunnels: Túnel das Estrebarias (also called Furado Velho), constructed in 1855 to mark the first time abundant north coast waters crossed the island to reach the drier south. Turning left at the levada entry reveals this engineering marvel, while turning right leads to Casa do Rabaçal through deep green Laurissilva forest landscapes classified as UNESCO World Natural Heritage since 1999. This trail combines natural beauty with crucial insight into Madeira's water management history.