Vereda do Fanal - Assobiadores

This trail begins on the Paul da Serra plateau, offering hikers a chance to start their journey amidst the vast, open landscapes that characterize this highland area. As you make your way toward Fanal, the trail winds through dense Laurissilva forest, a unique and ancient ecosystem recognized as a World Natural Heritage site by UNESCO. Along the way, in the area known as “Fio,” visitors can discover the remnants of an ingenious system of steel cables that once transported wood and shrubs downhill to Chão da Ribeira.

As you approach Fanal, the trail opens up into a serene volcanic crater, designated as a "resting reserve" by the Parque Natural of Madeira. This peaceful area is perfect for taking a moment to relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. The forest here is dominated by grand, centenary Ocotea foetens trees, many of which predate the discovery of Madeira, creating an almost primeval atmosphere. Beyond the impressive flora, the trail offers numerous scenic viewpoints where visitors can marvel at spectacular landscapes, from mist-covered valleys to rugged mountainsides, making this journey both a rejuvenating and visually stunning experience.