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PR1 VEREDA DO AREEIRO
The PR1 Vereda do Areeiro is one of the most spectacular and challenging hikes on Madeira Island. This trail connects three of the island’s highest peaks: Pico do Areeiro (1818 m), Pico das Torres (1851 m), and Pico Ruivo (1862 m), the highest point on Madeira. Spanning approximately 7 kilometers one way, the hike offers breathtaking views, dramatic landscapes, and a rewarding sense of adventure.
KEY INFO
Starting Point
Pico do Areeiro viewpoint
Duration
7 hours for out and back
Trail Type
Out-and-Back
Elevation Gain
Around 1650 meters
Distance
Approx. 14 km (8.7 miles) round trip
Difficultly Level
Moderate to Difficult
THE HIKE
Preparation for the PR1 Hike
Before you lace up your boots, here’s what you need to bring to the hike:
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Sturdy hiking shoes – The terrain is rocky, steep, and slippery in places.
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Layers of clothing – Weather changes fast in the mountains. Bring a windbreaker and warm layers.
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Headlamp or flashlight – You’ll pass through several dark tunnels carved into the rock.
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Water & snacks – There’s no food along the trail, so pack enough to keep your energy up.
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Camera or phone – You’ll want to capture the surreal views.
Details of the hike
The trail begins at Pico do Areeiro, 1818 meters above sea level, where the air is crisp and the views are already breathtaking. Many hikers arrive before dawn to witness the sunrise, which casts golden light over a sea of clouds below. It’s a surreal moment—one that sets the tone for the rest of the hike.
From the viewpoint, the path plunges into the heart of Madeira’s central mountain range. The terrain is rugged and varied: narrow ledges carved into cliffs, steep staircases that seem to defy gravity, and tunnels bored through ancient rock. Some sections are so narrow that passing other hikers requires careful coordination. You’ll often find yourself pressed against the rock wall, letting someone squeeze by with a polite nod and a shared sense of awe.
Despite the physical challenge, the trail is well-marked and maintained. Along the way, you’ll encounter several viewpoints—like Miradouro do Ninho da Manta and Miradouro Juncal—that offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. On clear days, you can see all the way to the ocean. On misty days, the clouds swirl around you, creating an ethereal atmosphere that feels like hiking through a dream.
The trail isn’t just about scenery—it’s also a journey through Madeira’s unique ecology. You’ll pass through high-altitude heathlands, spot endemic birds like the Madeira firecrest, and see hardy plants clinging to the rocks. Spring and early summer bring bursts of color as wildflowers bloom along the path.
After several hours of climbing, descending, and marveling, you’ll reach Pico Ruivo at 1862 meters—the highest point on the island. The final ascent is steep but rewarding, and the summit offers a 360-degree view that’s nothing short of spectacular. It’s here, near the top, that you’ll find the Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo, a mountain shelter where you can rest, grab a drink, and enjoy a simple meal. Whether it’s a hot coffee, a cold beer, or a sandwich, the refreshment feels well-earned after the effort of the hike.
For those who don’t want to retrace their steps, it’s possible to descend from Pico Ruivo to Achada do Teixeira, where transport can be arranged. This makes the hike more manageable and allows you to experience the full trail without doubling back.
It’s important to note that due to wildfires in 2024, parts of the PR1 trail are currently closed. As of now, only the first 1.2 kilometers from Pico do Areeiro to Pedra Rija Belvedere are accessible. The full route is expected to reopen by late 2025. Visitors are strongly advised to respect closure signs—going beyond them can result in fines and poses safety risks.
