Sunrise at Pico do Areeiro & hike to Pico Ruivo (PR 1 + PR 1.2)

Please note that the PR1 trail is partially closed. For the Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo route (PR1), hikers can walk as far as Pedra Rija (1.2 km of stairs) before returning to the bus. From there, they will be transported to Achada do Teixeira, where they will continue the hike to Pico Ruivo via PR1.2.  At the end of the hike, participants will return to the meeting point for the bus pickup.  

Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to an unforgettable adventure with you!

Upon arrival at Pico do Areeiro, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the dawn breaking over the rugged peaks and valleys of Madeira. This awe-inspiring moment is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

After experiencing the magical sunrise, you'll continue your exploration to get to Pico Ruivo - the Vereda do Areeiro (PR1) trail offers a thrilling journey through stunning landscapes. Follow this well-marked path as it winds its way to the majestic Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira. Prepare to be amazed by the panoramic views and natural wonders along the way.

Trail Timing Guide: 

The trail is well-maintained with handrails, but also a lot of steps, uneven surfaces and a couple of tunnels. The total hike time depends on your overall fitness level and the time you would spend on breaks. The following Trail Timing Guide is the average walking time that sums up to 3,5 hours not taking into consideration the breaks. It can serve you as a reference to plan your hike.

🚌 Pico Areeiro parking lot start

🔸  Pico Areeiro parking lot → PR 1: Miradouro do Ninho da Manta ~ 20 mins

🔸  Miradouro do Ninho da Manta → “Stairway to heaven” ~ 10 mins

🔸  “Stairway to heaven” → Tunnels and 360° Panoramic Viewpoint ~ 60 mins (currently not passable - closed trail)

🔸  Panoramic Viewpoint → Set of winding stairs up to Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo ~ 60 mins (currently not passable - closed trail)

🔸  Casa de Abrigo → Pico Ruivo ~ 15 mins

🔸  Pico Ruivo → Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo ~ 15 mins

🚌 Casa de Abrigo → PR 1.2: Achada do Teixeira parking lot ~ 30 mins pick up point

If you have some time left before the pick up you can check out the Achada da Teixeira Mountain Spot Cafe.

For further info and photos of the trail check our Highlighted Stories on Instagram.

Check out my hike on Strava: https://strava.app.link/XWAUTu6L5Cb