PR 28 – Levada da Rocha Vermelha
The Tunnel Trek of the Laurisilva
Distance
10.8 km (One Way)
Duration
4h – 5h
Difficulty
Hard
Status
⛔ CLOSED
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This is the “Introvert’s Choice.” While hundreds flock to the 25 Fontes nearby, PR 28 remains quiet. However, avoid it after heavy rains as the waterfalls can wash out the path.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Rocha Vermelha?
The **PR 28 Levada da Rocha Vermelha** is a journey into the deep vascular system of Madeira. Unlike the manicured tourist trails, this levada feels wild, ancient, and untamed.
It sits lower in the valley than the famous 25 Fontes, taking you through dense Laurisilva vegetation, past the source of the Ribeira da Janela, and through one of the island’s longest hiking tunnels (1.6 km). It is a true adventure for experienced hikers.
🔦 THE GREAT TUNNEL WARNING
This trail features a tunnel that is nearly 2 kilometers long. It is pitch black, the ceiling varies in height, and water pours from the roof. You will be underground for 25+ minutes. Do not enter without a working headlamp and waterproofs.
Trail Map
From Fanal (ER 209) to Lombo da Atouguia (Calheta).
Step-by-Step Guide
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1
The Descent (Fanal Start)
Park at Fanal and find the signpost for PR 28. The trail begins with a steep, often muddy descent through the forest to reach the levada level.
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2
The Wild Levada
Once on the level path, you follow the water channel. Safety cables are often missing here, and the drops to the right are significant. Walk with caution.
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3
The Long Tunnel
The crux of the hike. You enter the 1.6km tunnel. It is wet and dark. Watch your head on the low ceiling rocks and keep moving forward.
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4
Waterfalls & Ribeira da Janela
Exiting the tunnel, you are deep in the valley. You will cross tributaries and pass beautiful waterfalls that feed the main river. This is the most scenic section.
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5
Lombo da Atouguia (Finish)
The trail winds its way to the “Casa dos Levadeiros” near the Calheta hydroelectric plant. This is the end point.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Before descending, capture the mystical, fog-shrouded ancient Til trees at the starting point.
Post-tunnel, you will encounter waterfalls that cascade directly over the path. Perfect for long-exposure shots.
The “light at the end of the tunnel” shot, framed by the lush green ferns waiting at the exit, is iconic.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
This is a Linear Trail, which makes logistics tricky. The start is high in the mountains (Fanal), and the end is lower (Calheta).
📍 Logistics Strategy
Do not hike down if you don’t have a way back up! There is no cell signal in the valley to call a taxi.
- Option A: Park at the bottom (Lombo da Atouguia) and pre-arrange a taxi to drive you up to Fanal to start.
- Option B: Two cars (one at each end).
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 Mountain Roads
Steep gradients and potential fog.
Our Rental Recommendation: You need a car with good brakes and decent power for the climb out of Calheta. An Automatic Transmission is highly recommended for the steep inclines.
Essential Gear
- Headlamp (Torch): Absolutely mandatory for the 1.6km tunnel. Phone lights will fail you.
- Waterproof Jacket: The tunnel drips constantly, and the vegetation is wet.
- Grip Shoes: The path is often slippery with mud and moss. Sneakers are not safe here.
- Offline Map: Zero mobile signal in the valley. Download maps before you go.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Calheta Beach Area
Since the hike ends near Calheta, head down to the marina. Places like Manifattura Di Gelato (great pizza/pasta) or New Era offer a perfect post-hike recovery meal by the ocean.
