Sunset at Pico do Arieiro & full PR1 Hike (PR 1.2 + PR 1)
Distance: 10 km
Duration: 3-5 hours
Difficulty: moderate
Elevation gain: 637 meters
Extra gear: headlamp/ torch needed!
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Madeira's landscapes with our transfer service from Funchal to the Vereda do Areeiro (PR1) hike. Arrival to Achada do Teixeira approximately 4-5 hours before sunset, allowing ample time to explore iconic landmarks like Pico Ruivo, Ninho da Manta and the famed "Stairways to Heaven." Wander amidst stunning vistas as the sun paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson. After the sunset spectacle, our shuttle awaits to whisk you back to Funchal, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey.
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.
🚌 Achada do Teixeira parking lot start
🔸 Achada do Teixeira parking lot → PR 1.2: Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo ~ 30 mins
🔸 Casa de Abrigo → Pico Ruivo ~ 15 mins
🔸 Pico Ruivo → Casa de Abrigo ~ 15 mins
🔸 Casa de Abrigo → PR1 (direction Pico do Areeiro) Panoramic Viewpoint ~ 60 mins
🔸 Tunnels and 360° Panoramic Viewpoint → “Stairway to heaven” ~ 60 mins
🔸 “Stairway to heaven” → Miradouro do Ninho da Manta ~ 10 mins
🔸 Miradouro do Ninho da Manta → Pico Areeiro parking lot ~ 20 mins
🚌 Pico Areeiro parking lot pick up point
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