The construction of the Levada das 25 Fontes, also known as Levada Nova do Rabaçal, began in 1835 and was completed on September 16, 1855. Its purpose was to enable agricultural use of several uncultivated plots of land in the municipality of Calheta.

The Levada do Risco (PR6.1) and Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) are some of the most popular routes for both Madeirans and tourists. The Laurissilva forest is well represented on this trail, and, in harmony with the centuries-old heather, it creates an unforgettable setting.

Arriving at the forest station, you can easily identify where to proceed, by signage. The Levada do Risco runs parallel to the Levada das 25 Fontes, but is slightly higher than its neighbor, which is lower. Both lead to the Calheta Hydroelectric Power Plant, and their landscapes are identical in terms of landscape and flora, each with its own unique features, such as the waterfalls and the many viewing angles of the deep landscapes.

This route can be started in two ways: either in the Rabaçal area on E.R. 105 (formerly E.R. 110) or through the Caldeira Leisure Area, known as "Garagem," on Estrada Dr. Roberto Monteiro (formerly E.R. 211).

There's a shuttle service provided by the Calheta Municipality that takes hikers to the starting point: the Rabaçal Forest Station. The distance between the parking lot and the Rabaçal Forest Station is approximately 2 km, and the cost is €5 one-way and €8 round-trip.

The Levada do Risco runs from the Rabaçal house to the Risco waterfall. It's also quite flat and often runs almost parallel to the Levada das 25 Fontes. For this reason, there are several connections between both levadas and between PR 6 and 6.1. These connections are clearly signposted, allowing you to hop from one levada to the other and see both waterfalls with relative ease.

The end of the trail offers another spot for contemplation, as the beautiful Risco waterfall looms large. The waterfall gives the Levada do Risco its name. From the Risco waterfall, it's impossible to go any further, although it may seem possible.

The return is along the same path and descend the path to Levada das 25 Fontes. Following the trail, you'll find a bridge that allows you to cross the Ribeira Grande. From this same spot, you can see the beautiful Risco waterfall in the distance. After the bridge, you'll follow a pair of stone steps, flanked by the levada, offering an equally striking view. At the top, you'll find a unique setting for this route, with the water channel at a higher level than usual. The trail continues along its narrow channel with beautiful heather tunnels, and it's safe to walk thanks to the balconies along the entire route.

The trail to the end of Levada das 25 Fontes continues through a pleasant landscape of protected nature, with the deep landscapes of the Ribeira da Janela Valley to the left, which will accompany you to the origin of Levada das 25 Fontes. The name 25 Fontes comes from the number of springs that, year-round, insist on flowing into the beautiful lake. The return route is via the same route.