From Wikipedia: " A levada (Portuguese for "led") is an irrigation channel or aqueduct on the island. The levadas originated out of the necessity of bringing large amounts of water from the west and northwest of the island to the drier southeast, which is more conducive to habitation and agriculture. In the sixteenth century the Portuguese started building levadas to carry water to the agricultural regions. The most recent were made in the 1940s. Many are cut into the sides of mountains, and it was also necessary to dig 25 miles (40 km) of tunnels.
Today the levadas not only supply water to the southern parts of the island but provide hydro-electric power. There are over 1,350 miles (2,170 km) of levadas and they provide a remarkable network of walking paths. Some provide easy and relaxing walks through beautiful countryside, but others are narrow, crumbling ledges where a slip could result in serious injury or death."
Early on into the trip, we decided to go hike a picturesque levada. Craig had the route marked and we started the drive to the head of the trail. The weather was gorgeous the entire way up and the views were spectacular. However, as we parked, a foggy and spitting rain cloud descended upon us in a matter of minutes. Everyone but Owen donned their raincoats and were ready for a shortened trek. Owen refused to go. In about one more minute, it really started to rain and we decided that Owen was the only one with good sense at that moment and we all piled into the car to make our way down the then very foggy road.
Today the levadas not only supply water to the southern parts of the island but provide hydro-electric power. There are over 1,350 miles (2,170 km) of levadas and they provide a remarkable network of walking paths. Some provide easy and relaxing walks through beautiful countryside, but others are narrow, crumbling ledges where a slip could result in serious injury or death."
Early on into the trip, we decided to go hike a picturesque levada. Craig had the route marked and we started the drive to the head of the trail. The weather was gorgeous the entire way up and the views were spectacular. However, as we parked, a foggy and spitting rain cloud descended upon us in a matter of minutes. Everyone but Owen donned their raincoats and were ready for a shortened trek. Owen refused to go. In about one more minute, it really started to rain and we decided that Owen was the only one with good sense at that moment and we all piled into the car to make our way down the then very foggy road.
We did attempt another VERY short hike another day and here is a snippet from the hike.
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