PR 13.1 - Vereda da Palha Carga

The route along Vereda da Palha Carga starts at the regional road (ER 209), next to Louro da Gota, and follows PR 13 Vereda do Fanal for the first 100 metres until you find the turn-off to 25 Fontes on the left.

The route takes you through the high-altitude heath, but in the clearings and on the slopes of the watercourses you can see some endemic species, especially the Palha-carga grass (Festuca donax), after which this path is named.

From the various natural viewpoints along the route, you can enjoy impressive views over the Rabaçal valley and the Ribeira da Janela, landscapes dominated by the characteristic green of the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and a member of the European Network of Sites of Community Importance - Natura 2000 Network. After crossing the Ribeira dos Cedros, the route follows the Levada Nova do Rabaçal or the Levada das 25 Fontes, until it ends at the 25 Fontes lagoon.

The 25 Fontes are a magnificent example of a suspended aquifer, whose abundance and water permanence was decisive in the construction of Madeira's levadas. Due to its scientific value, this site of geological interest is classified as geosite C01 - 25 Fontes. From the 25 Fontes lagoon, you can take the route back to the starting point or, alternatively, follow PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes which will take you to Casa do Rabaçal.