Ribeiro Frio – At the Cold Stream
Ribeiro Frio means “cold stream”, referring to the cool, fresh mountain air and the numerous watercourses in this region. With its natural water sources, the village is an important hub in the historic irrigation system of levadas. Some of the oldest levadas in Madeira run through Ribeiro Frio, such as the Levada do Furado (built in the 18th century).
Since then, these water channels have carried water from the rainy mountain regions to the drier and lower-lying regions, enabling the cultivation of sugar cane, bananas and wine. Without the artificial irrigation, agricultural use would be impossible and the fields would be infertile.
Ribeiro Frio was and still is a good example of the traditional use of Madeira’s natural resources.
The Forests around Ribeiro Frio
The Laurisilva forest (laurel forest) around Ribeiro Frio has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Traditionally, the forests were also used for the extraction of wood and resin. Farmers collected the leaves of the trees (the so-called “Facho”) to use as animal feed and compost.
Many of these forests were cut down for shipbuilding, especially in the 15th and 16th centuries. Ribeiro Frio is one of the regions where the original vegetation has been preserved.
In the past, the locals used to make tools and household items from the wood in the surrounding forests. Today, this tradition has almost disappeared, but you can sometimes still find handmade woodwork in small souvenir stores.
Today, the Laurisilva is considered one of the best examples of the Atlantic rainforest and attracts nature lovers from all over the world.
The Trout Farm (Truticultura)
The trout breeding station in Ribeiro Frio was built in the 1950s and still plays an important role in the breeding and conservation of rainbow trout (Truta Arco-Íris).
Originally, the facility was used to stock the local rivers and levadas with fish in order to strengthen the local fish population. Today, the station is one of the main attractions for tourists. But also it offers insights into the historical use of the region’s natural resources.
This makes the trout breeding station an authentic experience and tourist highlight.
If you love fresh trout, Ribeiro Frio is of course the right place for you. The surrounding restaurants prepare tasty dishes from freshly caught trout.
Levada Hike to Balcões
The levada hike from Ribeiro Frio to Balcões is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on Madeira. From the parking lot in Ribeiro Frio to the viewpoint, it is only 1.5 kilometers through the dense laurel forest with diverse subtropical vegetation.
Once you reach the Balcões viewpoint, you can enjoy a wide view over the Ribeira da Metade valley. On days with good visibility, you can see Pico do Areeiro, Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo. And the so-called Eagle’s Nest (Ninho da Manta) near Pico do Areeiro. The endemic finches will also be great fun, as they are only too happy to peck crumbs of bread and other delicacies from your outstretched hand.
Transformation to a Tourist Destination
Ribeiro Frio became a popular place for travelers in the early 20th century, when road construction made the region accessible for horse-drawn carriages and later for cars.
Witness to this development is the “Antiga Casa de Chá” (old teahouse) which was built in 1932. You can see the ruin about 40 meters to the north from the start of the Levada do Furado.
Today’s ruins are particularly interesting for fans of lost places …
https://cultura.madeira.gov.pt/olhares-sobre-o-passado/3211-casa-de-ch%C3%A1-do-ribeiro-frio.html
Insider Tip: Discover the Hidden Sides of Ribeiro Frio
While most visitors only head for the Balcões viewing platform, there is more to discover for adventurous travelers. Follow the Levada do Furado to the remote forest area of Lamaceiros. There you will find a tranquil setting with spectacular views of the valley and the north coast of Madeira, far away from the tourist crowds.
And if you want to take a piece of Madeira culture with you: Stop by the small stalls in the parking lot, where local artisans offer homemade liqueurs, jams and carvings. A souvenir with history!
Conclusion
Cool mountain air, lush greenery and the gentle lapping of streams – Ribeiro Frio combines everything a Madeira traveler’s heart desires. But this charming place is more than just a starting point for hikes or a tourist attraction. It tells stories of hard work and the close connection between man and nature. Whether you let yourself be enchanted by the shady hiking trails of the Laurissilva forests or marvel at the trout in the historic breeding station: Ribeiro Frio is a place that preserves the past but does not close itself off from the present.
