When you visit Madeira Island you must not miss this place. Pico do Arieiro is the second highest point on Madeira from where you get the most amazing views to most of the island.
You have two options in terms of hiking this place:
You can hike all the way to Pico Ruivo which is a 7-8 km walk that can be a bit challenging for some as there are steep incline and decline throughout the route, but nothing you can't overcome. It's one of the most stunning walks on the entire island. The only problem is that it ends at the parking lot at Pico Ruivo, so unless you want to walk all the way back, you need to sort out transportation back. Most people arrange a taxi that drops you off at Pico do Arieiro and then pick you up at Pico do Ruivo at an agreed time.
You hike the start of Pico do Arieiro, which is the most scenic part with what we like to call "stairways to heaven". By doing this you wont have to walk more than 3-4 km in total and you will get to see the insane beauty people come for.
Our videos from there:
Most THRILLING Madeira Hike: Climbing Pico Ruivo + Pico do Arieiro
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIinUxTVESE
The Jurassic Park of Europe | Madeira Island
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeYM7DAMc1w
