Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Waterfalls

Água De Pena

Top 7 Waterfalls around Água De Pena

Waterfalls around Água De Pena offer access to some of Madeira's notable cascading waters. This historic area in Machico serves as a starting point for exploring the island's network of trails and levadas. The region provides opportunities to experience diverse natural features, including waterfalls within lush laurisilva forests and along scenic levada paths. Visitors can find a variety of waterfall experiences, from those allowing passage behind the water curtain to majestic drops.

Best waterfalls around Água De Pena

  • The most…

Last updated: July 3, 2026

Mossy Waterfall in Madeira Natural Park

Highlight • Waterfall

Beautiful section of path which makes you feel like you're in the middle of a rain forest!

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Stone Bridge Over Levada

Highlight • Bridge

A typical bridge to carry water from mountain streams over the levada

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Waterfall Along Levada do Norte

Highlight • Waterfall

After or during heavy rain above, it can be a bit dangerous here, as it goes steeply downhill right at the edge of the path. Please be careful.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Away from the tourist crowds - a tour to switch off and enjoy nature. Be careful - there are always obstacles to climb over or crawl under.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Waterfall and Wooden Bridge

Highlight • Waterfall

There was a landslide in the background of the first picture, so the path was filled up a bit. However, you can walk over it.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Água De Pena.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Água De Pena

Running Trails around Água De Pena

MTB Trails around Água De Pena

Cycling around Água De Pena

Hiking around Água De Pena

Road Cycling Routes around Água De Pena

Mountain Hikes around Água De Pena

Tips from the Community

GEFINKELT
December 6, 2025, Waterfall Along Levada do Norte

Along the Levada do Norte, this waterfall plunges over dark rock steps, bathing the narrow path in a fine mist. Nestled among ferns, mosses, and lush greenery, the spot offers a pleasantly cool place for a short break. The steady rush of water accompanies you a little further along the levada, making this section particularly atmospheric.

Translated by Google

2

0

At the rest area by the forest stream, you sit right next to the babbling water, surrounded by ferns, mosses, and shady trees. The gentle murmur of the stream and the chirping of birds create a tranquil, refreshing atmosphere. This is the ideal place to briefly take off your shoes, dip your feet in the water, and gather new energy for the rest of your hike.

Translated by Google

1

0

Due to the year-round moisture, almost all slopes are covered in moss. This includes the wall down which this waterfall cascades.

Translated by Google

1

0

Currently, there is no waterfall due to low water supply. But the bridge makes a nice change on the walk along the levada.

Translated by Google

1

0

Beautiful little waterfall on the path along the levada.

Translated by Google

1

0

You can do what you want, if you want to get past it, you will get wet

Translated by Google

2

0

A beautiful and tranquil levada above Santa Cruz. It leads through a vast eucalyptus forest – it smells wonderful. Along the edge, there are many lilies, which are sure to be a sight to behold in bloom!

Translated by Google

1

0

Away from the tourist crowds - a tour to switch off and enjoy nature. Be careful - there are always obstacles to climb over or crawl under.

Translated by Google

3

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of waterfalls can I expect to find around Água De Pena?

The waterfalls around Água De Pena are often integrated with Madeira's famous levada system. You'll find cascades that plunge over dark rock steps, creating a fine mist, and others that flow directly into the levadas. Some sections, like the area around the Mossy Waterfall in Madeira Natural Park, evoke a rainforest environment with heavy moss growth on rock walls.

Are there any waterfalls where I can walk behind the water?

Yes, the Levada Nova Waterfall, while not directly in Água de Pena, is a notable example in the broader region where you can experience walking behind the curtain of falling water. This immersive experience is part of the Levada Nova trail, which is accessible from areas like Ponta do Sol and can be reached from above Água de Pena.

What are some popular waterfall trails accessible from Água De Pena?

From Água De Pena, you can access a network of trails and levadas leading to various waterfalls. The Waterfall Along Levada do Norte is a popular spot where water plunges over dark rock steps. Another interesting feature is the Stone Bridge Over Levada, which carries water from mountain streams and offers a unique change on the walk.

What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls near Água De Pena?

The waterfalls in Madeira, including those accessible from Água De Pena, are generally beautiful year-round due to the island's humid climate. However, visiting during or after periods of heavy rain, especially in winter, often results in a more abundant flow, making waterfalls like Água D'Alto particularly impressive. The laurel forest environment along the levadas maintains its lushness throughout the year.

Are there family-friendly waterfall trails around Água De Pena?

While many levada walks can be enjoyed by families, some trails might have sections that are narrow or steep. For easier options, consider exploring the 'Easy hikes around Água De Pena' guide, which includes routes like the Roma Bridge – Poço dos Chefes Waterfall loop from Santa Cruz. Always check the specific trail details for difficulty and terrain before heading out with children.

What natural features can I see along the waterfall trails?

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you'll encounter lush laurisilva forests, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Trails often feature dense ferns, moss-covered rock walls, and diverse plant life. You might also find viewpoints offering cool vistas, as seen near the Waterfall Along Levada do Norte.

How difficult are the waterfall trails near Água De Pena?

The difficulty of waterfall trails varies. Many levada walks are considered moderate, offering impressive scenery. Some sections, like those near the Waterfall Along Levada do Norte, can be steep and require caution, especially after rain. It's advisable to check the difficulty ratings for specific routes before you go. For more challenging options, you can explore the Mountain Hikes around Água De Pena guide.

Can I find other outdoor activities near the waterfalls?

Yes, the region around Água De Pena offers a variety of outdoor activities. Besides waterfall hikes, you can explore other mountain hikes or easy hikes. There are also numerous cycling routes, including challenging ones like the 'Porto da Cruz, Portela e Poiso — circular route on Madeira Island'.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the waterfalls around Água De Pena?

Visitors appreciate the immersive natural beauty, often describing sections as feeling like a rainforest. The constant presence of water, whether from the cascades or the levadas, creates a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere. Many enjoy the unique experience of walking along the levadas, with highlights like the Mossy Waterfall in Madeira Natural Park being particularly well-loved for its lush environment.

Are there any notable waterfalls further afield from Água De Pena that are worth visiting?

Absolutely. While requiring a bit more travel, iconic waterfalls like the 25 Fontes Waterfall and Risco Waterfall in the Rabaçal region are highly regarded. Another impressive cascade is the Caldeirão Verde Waterfall, known for its 'green cauldron' setting. These offer diverse hiking experiences within Madeira's verdant landscapes.

Is there parking available near the waterfall trailheads?

Access to many levada trails and waterfalls typically involves parking at designated trailheads or nearby villages. While specific parking details for every waterfall near Água De Pena aren't provided, it's common for popular hiking areas in Madeira to have parking facilities. It's recommended to research the starting point of your chosen trail for precise parking information.

What should I wear when hiking to waterfalls in this region?

Given the often humid and sometimes misty conditions, especially near waterfalls and along levadas, waterproof or water-resistant clothing is advisable. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential for navigating potentially wet and uneven terrain. Layers are also recommended to adapt to changing temperatures and conditions within the laurel forest.

Most popular routes around Água De Pena

Running Trails around Água De Pena

Most popular attractions around Água De Pena

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Água De Pena:

Serra De ÁguaSão VicenteCurral Das FreirasRibeira BravaCanhasPonta Do SolMadalena Do MarSeixalRibeira Da JanelaEstreito Da CalhetaCalhetaArco Da CalhetaTabuaCampanárioJardim Da SerraEstreito De Câmara De LobosPonta DelgadaCâmara De LobosQuinta GrandeBoa VenturaSão JorgePrazeresFajã Da OvelhaSão RoqueMonteFaialSão Roque Do FaialSanto AntónioSantanaPorto MonizPonta Do PargoIlhaJardim Do MarPorto Da CruzArco De São JorgePaul do MarSanto António Da SerraCamachaSanto António Da SerraAchadas Da CruzMachicoFunchal (Santa Maria Maior)GaulaSão GonçaloCaniçoSanta LuziaImaculado Coração De MariaFunchal (São Pedro)São MartinhoFunchal (Sé)Caniçal

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Machico

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy