The starting point of this walk is located at the "Casa dos Levadeiros", where you will find Levada dos Maroços. The canal leads you through rural surroundings, where small plots of land planted with various fruits and vegetables grow side by side with exotic forests.
The tranquil scenery of Levada dos Maroços is defined by the traditional terraced farmland known as “poios”. Look out for the signpost saying "Vereda da Boca do Risco" and follow the path to the right, leaving the Levada behind. This path, the Vereda da Boca do Risco, takes you through the rolling hills of the pretty Ribeira Seca Valley. After a short hike you will arrive at Boca do Risco, one of the most beautiful natural viewpoints on the East side of the Island and highlight of the walk.
Some hikers end their walk at the viewpoint, where they can contemplate the rugged landscape as well as the Atlantic Ocean.
To get to Larano, head back down to the main trail and head west.
Most coastal paths, such as this, were once used by locals to get from one village to another. Excavated from the cliff itself, these trails are vulnerable to erosion.
The path to Larano is visually stunning, but there are a few inherent risks that demand extra care, especially experience. Cables have been installed at some of the more eroded areas to aid in mobility.
At Larano, although exotic species replace the endemic vegetation the floral intensity remains. The path ends at Caminho do Cabo do Larano, where there is a small cable car.
From here you can continue down to the village of Porto da Cruz or hire specialised services. To do this walk, it is recommended you hire the services of a tour operator and enjoy the walk with a guide. If you prefer to go unaccompanied, hire a local transport service to get back to your point of origin. Search the business directory and lookup companies that provide these services.