PR 17 – Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal
The Waterfall Forest Adventure
Distance
15 km (One Way)
Duration
6h – 7h
Difficulty
Hard
Status
✅ OPEN
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This is a “hiker’s hike.” It is rarely crowded. Start early (08:00) not to beat the crowds, but to ensure you have enough daylight to finish this long route safely.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal?
The PR 17 is one of the most diverse and beautiful forest hikes in Madeira. It combines the high-altitude views of the Central Massif with the deep, lush Laurisilva forest of the North.
You will walk through tunnels, under waterfalls, and climb hundreds of steps. It is a true adventure that connects Lombo do Mouro to Encumeada (or Bica da Cana).
Trail Map
From Lombo do Mouro (ER 110) to Encumeada (ER 104).
Step-by-Step Guide
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1
Lombo do Mouro (Start)
Start at the viewpoint on the ER 110 road. The trail begins with spectacular views over the Ribeira Brava valley.
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2
The Tunnels
You pass through several tunnels. One is particularly long and wet. A headlamp is essential.
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3
The Waterfalls
The trail passes directly behind two waterfalls. The path is carved into the cliff face behind the curtain of water.
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4
Bica da Cana & Encumeada
After a steep climb to the Pináculo area, you descend through the Folhadal forest to finish at Encumeada (or climb up to Bica da Cana).
📸 Best Photo Spots
The unique opportunity to photograph the forest through a curtain of falling water. Keep your lens dry!
The start of the trail offers incredible ridges and peaks often poking through the clouds.
This section is named “Folhadal” because of the dense foliage. The moss-covered stairs look like something from a fantasy movie.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
The trailhead is at Lombo do Mouro on the ER 110 road (the main road up to Paul da Serra from Encumeada).
🔄 Linear Logistics
This is a linear trail. Park one car at Encumeada Snack Bar and take a taxi to Lombo do Mouro to start. Or do an out-and-back to the first waterfall if you only have one car.
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 High Mountain Pass
Steep, winding, and beautiful.
Our Rental Recommendation: The drive up to Lombo do Mouro is a long, steady climb. An Automatic car makes the hairpins much more enjoyable. A Compact SUV offers great visibility over the valley edges.
Essential Gear
- Headlamp: The tunnels are long and pitch black.
- Waterproof Jacket: You walk behind waterfalls. You will get splashed.
- Hiking Boots: The path is often wet, muddy, and covered in slippery leaves.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Snack Bar Encumeada
If you finish at Encumeada (recommended), treat yourself to a hot Poncha and a Prego sandwich. The terrace view is the perfect way to end a long day in the mountains.
