Trails
Levada das Faias
A north-coast levada past the waterfalls of Boaventura
The place
The Levada das Faias is one of the irrigation channels of Boaventura, on the north coast, alongside the parish's Levada Grande. It runs for about 9.2 km at 270 to 370 m, from near the ER 220 by Lombo do Urzal, past the hamlet of Fajã do Penedo, to the ER 211 near Pico do Alto.
The channel keeps a gentle line through the valleys, with about 100 m of climbing in all and about two and a half hours of walking one way. On the way it passes waterfalls, among them the Poço das Casas and the Fôjo, and long stretches of the path run along steep slopes. The path is in poor condition in places, especially towards the northern end, so the walk suits sure-footed walkers who are happy to turn back where the way is broken.
Highlights
- Waterfalls on the way, among them the Poço das Casas and the Fôjo.
- The hamlet of Fajã do Penedo, one of the localities of Boaventura.
- A gentle channel line at 270 to 370 m, with about 100 m of climbing in all.
- Steep ground beside the path for long stretches.
When to come
A dry spell, since the north coast is often wet and the path is muddy and broken in places after rain.
Getting there
Start near the ER 220 by Lombo do Urzal or at the north end near the ER 211 by Pico do Alto, and arrange transport between the two, as the walk is one way.
Worth knowing
- Distance and time: about 9.2 km one way, about two and a half hours.
- Climb: about 100 m in all.
- Difficulty: moderate, with exposed stretches and a damaged path in places.
- Condition: worst towards the northern end; turn back where the path is broken.
- Footwear: boots with a good grip, as the north coast is often wet.
- Fee: none; this is not an official PR trail.