Avid hikers can combine Levada do Castelejo to Levada da Referta, adding the laurel forest to the rural landscape.
The parish of Porto da Cruz is one of the best places to train for Trail Running. This levada is one of the various training courses within the municipality and attracts local and foreign visitors all year round.
Considered an easy-grade walk, Levada da Referta is relatively short and flat. This walk does not present any significant difficulties.
The agricultural side of the walk allows you to observe the local crops grown for self-sustenance. Most of the uncultivated land belongs to people who have since emigrated or that do not make the primary sector their main activity.
A Penha de Águia marks its presence throughout the walk and includes one of the many trails located close to the levada.
Levada da Referta is a one-way walk that starts at one of two points, both located in Porto da Cruz. You can start at Caminho da Referta (ER 102) or Caminho da Cruz (ER 102). Both options are valid as they involve the same kind of planning.
For one-way walks (keeping in mind that you can turn back to your starting point if needed) we recommend you go with a tour operator or hire a local transport service to get back to your point of origin. Search the business directory and lookup companies that provide these services.
