PR 6.6 – Vereda do Túnel do Cavalo
The Secret Tunnel to Rabaçal
Afstand
2.8 km (One Way)
Duur
1h – 1.5h
Moeilijkheid
Matig
Status
OPEN
Beste tijd voor een bezoek
Pro Tip: This is a “local secret” trail. It is almost never crowded because tour buses do not stop here. Perfect for adventure lovers who want to escape the main Rabaçal crowds.
⚠️ Technische moeilijkheidsgraad
Why Hike Túnel do Cavalo?
De PR 6.6 is an adventurous alternative route into the Rabaçal valley. Instead of taking the shuttle bus, you walk through the “Horse Tunnel” (Túnel do Cavalo).
This tunnel was originally built to transport goods (and horses) between the north and south sides of the mountain. Emerging from the dark tunnel into the lush green Laurisilva forest on the other side is a magical “Jurassic Park” moment.
Parcours Kaart
From Calheta (South) through the tunnel to Rabaçal (North).
Stap-voor-stap handleiding
-
1
Calheta Parking (Start)
Start near the “Casa do Caldeirão” near the ER 211 road. There is a small parking area. Follow the levada channel towards the mountain.
-
2
The Tunnel
You reach the tunnel entrance. It is about 200m long. Turn on your flashlight! The floor can be wet and muddy.
-
3
The Enchanted Forest
You exit the tunnel into a completely different world—dense, humid Laurisilva forest. The path descends through mossy trees.
-
4
Rabaçal Junction (Finish)
The trail connects with the main Rabaçal network near the Forestry House. From here, you can join PR 6 (25 Fontes) or PR 6.1 (Risco).
Beste fotoplekken
Photograph the “light at the end of the tunnel” framing the green ferns outside. A classic silhouette shot.
The forest immediately after the tunnel is incredibly lush. The trees are draped in “Old Man’s Beard” lichen.
Before entering the tunnel on the south side, look back for a sweeping view of the Calheta coastline.
Faciliteiten & voorzieningen
Hoe er te komen
Drive towards Calheta and take the road up to **Casa do Caldeirão**. The trailhead is discreetly marked.
🔄 Loop Strategy
Hike through the tunnel -> Visit Rabaçal -> Take the Shuttle Bus up to Paul da Serra -> Walk down the road/paths back to your car (requires good navigation).
Het perspectief van de bestuurder
🚘 Off the Beaten Track
Quiet country roads.
Onze huuraanbeveling: The access road is a bit narrow but paved. A smaller car is easier to park on the roadside verge. This is Madeira Island has compact cars perfect for these hidden spots.
Essentiële uitrusting
- Flashlight/Headlamp: Essential for the tunnel. Phone light is okay, but a headlamp is better.
- Waterproof Shoes: The tunnel floor often has puddles.
- Jacket: The tunnel acts as a wind funnel and is often drafty and cold inside.
🍹 Na de wandeling: Waar eten?
Pukiki Tiki Bar
Located in Calheta (Estreito da Calheta). After your adventure, head down for the island’s best cocktails and a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. A great place to unwind.
