PR1 Vereda do Areeiro is a hiking trail that connects three famous spots in Madeira - the island’s highest peaks. This is truly the most stunning yet also the most challenging hike I’ve ever done! The trail links Pico do Areeiro (1,818 m), passing through Pico das Torres (1,851 m), to reach the highest point, Pico Ruivo (1,862 m). It’s approximately 7 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours to complete. This hike is quite demanding and forms part of the Central Mountain Massif, a protected area within the Natura 2000 network.

Unfortunately, the route is still closed due to the forest fires of August 2024. The hope is that the trail will reopen in the summer of 2025.

At the moment, you can hike about 1.2 km from Pico do Arieiro to the viewpoint Miradouro da Pedra Rija – also known as the Stairway to Heaven. Along the way, you will also pass the stunning Ninho de Manta viewpoint.

Once the trail reopens and you start from the Pico do Arieiro viewpoint, you will pass through tunnels carved into volcanic rock, which were once used as shelters for livestock and shepherds. Along the way, you’ll also encounter steep slopes. To reach Pico Ruivo, you’ll have to hike around Pico das Torres, and climb a steep staircase carved into the rocks.

The most challenging section of the Vereda do Areeiro trail is the final ascent after the Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo shelter. But once you reach the top, it’s totally worth it! You’ll feel like you’re standing on top of the world - or at least, on top of Madeira.

On your way down, you’ll come across a rock formation known as “Homem em Pé” (Standing Man). Here, you’ll find the path leading to Achada do Teixeira, where your hike can end.

During the hike, you’ll mostly see high-altitude heath vegetation and might spot several bird species and subspecies unique to the Macaronesian region of the archipelago.

Please note that this hike may be challenging for people who experience vertigo and the fitness demands of the trail is not for the faint hearted. Being above an altitude of 1600-1800 meters will demand more of your body due to the fact that there is less oxigen in the air.

<START>

PAYING FOR HIKES

Since October 28, 2024, you need to pay a small fee of €3 to access all PR routes. You can either pay in advance online or scan the QR code at the start of the hike to pay on the spot. Click here for more information.

IMPORTANT:

Due to maintenance, landslides, or falling rocks, some trails may be temporarily closed. Check the updated list here: List of open & closed Levada's

It’s also important to note that not all hikes are classified as PR routes—which are the official trails recommended by the government—and therefore may not appear on the IFCN list.

Be aware that trails not classified as PR routes are not regularly maintained, as their primary purpose is to irrigate farmland, not to serve as walking paths.