Canico Trip Overview
The Laurel forest, also called laurisilva or laurissilva, is a type of subtropical forest found in areas with high humidity and relatively stable, mild temperatures. The forest is characterized by broadleaf tree species with evergreen, glossy and elongated leaves, known as “laurophyll” or “lauroid”. Plants from the laurel family (Lauraceae) are also present at the Madeira´s Laurissilva forest which is a UNESCO heritage site. It is a rare and fragile ecosystem. The paleobotanical record of Madeira reveals that laurissilva forests has existed in this island for at least 1.8 million years. The levada 25 fontes was built in the late 18 th century, and transports water from Rabaçal to the south of the island. Rabaçal can be described as valley of vertical walls where different types of volcanic rock allow water from the upper water table to emerge in the form of numerous fountains along the walls of the mountain.
Additional Info
* Duration: 6 hours
* Starts: Canico, Portugal
* Trip Category: Outdoor Activities >> Hiking & Camping
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What to Expect When Visiting Canico, Madeira Islands, Portugal
The Laurel forest, also called laurisilva or laurissilva, is a type of subtropical forest found in areas with high humidity and relatively stable, mild temperatures. The forest is characterized by broadleaf tree species with evergreen, glossy and elongated leaves, known as “laurophyll” or “lauroid”. Plants from the laurel family (Lauraceae) are also present at the Madeira´s Laurissilva forest which is a UNESCO heritage site. It is a rare and fragile ecosystem. The paleobotanical record of Madeira reveals that laurissilva forests has existed in this island for at least 1.8 million years. The levada 25 fontes was built in the late 18 th century, and transports water from Rabaçal to the south of the island. Rabaçal can be described as valley of vertical walls where different types of volcanic rock allow water from the upper water table to emerge in the form of numerous fountains along the walls of the mountain.
Itinerary
Your tour begins with a convenient pick up service from your accommodation. Your driver and mountain guide will take you to the starting point at the Rabaçal car park. From here, set-off on your adventure by walking to Casa do Rabaçal. At this stage, it will be possible to take a break and enjoy a snack.
Following this visit, you will hike the Levada das 25 fontes, which will transport you to the heart of the Laurissilva forest. Throughout your experience, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the endemic flora of Madeira, such as the species of the Laurissilva Forest and local fauna, which is mainly composed of bird species. The tour ends at the car park, where you will begin your journey back to your accommodation.
Stop At:
• Laurissilva Forest, Er 209, Madeira 6160-206 Portugal
