4.9
(2044)
12,374
hikers
PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail
05:31
11.0km
790m
Hiking
Hike the difficult 6.8-mile PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail, connecting Madeira's highest peaks with panoramic views and tunnels.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that may be dangerous
Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.
After 860 m for 1.18 km
After 2.91 km for 2.10 km
After 6.07 km for 2.10 km
After 9.04 km for 1.18 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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109 m
Pico do Areeiro (1,818 m)
Highlight • Summit
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813 m
Ninho da Manta Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
This observation point next to the Pousada do Pico do Areeiro was called Ninho da Manta because a common buzzard (Buteo buteo), a bird of prey, supposedly nested there. You can see the municipality of São Roque do Faial and the valley of Fajã da Nogueira, the preferred nesting site of the shearwater (Puffinus puffinus).
Likewise, from the Ninho da Manta viewpoint you can see part of the central mountain range of Madeira. The landscape is dominated by impressive rock formations that often rise above the clouds. The endemic species of the Madeira petrel (Pterodroma madeira), which is considered the most threatened lake, also nests here
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1.29 km
Cabeça do Urso
Highlight • Trail
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5.02 km
Pico Ruivo shelter
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tip by
5.46 km
Pico Ruivo Summit
Highlight • Summit
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11.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.78 km
4.30 km
663 m
159 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
6.36 km
3.53 km
1.01 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,810 m)
Lowest point (1,550 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
16°C
11°C
30 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging is the PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail?
This trail is considered difficult, requiring a good level of fitness. It involves significant elevation changes, steep ascents and descents, narrow ridges, and tunnels. Hikers should be sure-footed and wear sturdy shoes. The route can be exposed to various weather elements with little shade.
Is the PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail a loop or out-and-back route?
The PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail is typically hiked as an out-and-back route, connecting Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo Summit. Some hikers arrange for transportation from Pico Ruivo to make it a point-to-point hike.
Where does the trail start and is there parking available?
The trail officially starts at Pico do Areeiro, where you'll find a large parking area. It's highly recommended to arrive very early, especially for sunrise, as parking fills up quickly due to the trail's popularity.
When is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best times to hike are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is generally more pleasant. Starting early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid crowds and potentially witness a spectacular sunrise.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail?
Currently, there is no entrance fee to access the trail. However, due to recent forest fires and ongoing restoration, parts of the trail were closed. It is expected to fully reopen in April 2026, and permits may be required at that time. Always check official sources before your visit.
What are the main highlights and viewpoints along the route?
The trail offers breathtaking panoramic views. Key highlights include Pico do Areeiro, Ninho da Manta Viewpoint, and the ultimate destination, Pico Ruivo Summit. You'll also encounter unique features like tunnels and the famous 'Stairway to Heaven' near Miradouro Pedra Rija.
What should I wear and bring for the hike?
Given the varied terrain and exposure, wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a headlamp or flashlight for the tunnels. A waterproof jacket is also advisable.
Is the PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail dog-friendly?
While there are no explicit prohibitions, the trail's challenging terrain, narrow sections, steep stairs, and tunnels can make it difficult and potentially unsafe for dogs, especially larger breeds. Consider your dog's fitness and comfort before bringing them.
Does the trail connect with other hiking paths?
Yes, the route is part of a larger network of trails. It primarily follows the PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro - West Route (tunnels) and also includes sections of the PR 1.2 - Vereda do Pico Ruivo. Other nearby trails like Vereda Achada do Teixeira - Arco de São Jorge and PR 1.1 - Vereda da Ilha also intersect the area.
What's an insider tip for hiking the PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro Trail?
To truly experience the magic and avoid the largest crowds, aim to start your hike from Pico do Areeiro before sunrise. Witnessing the sunrise above the clouds from the peak before embarking on the trail is an unforgettable experience, and you'll have a head start before the main crowds arrive.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
It is recommended to start the tour very early after sunrise, after that the route is very crowded. In particular, the section from the hut to pico Ruivo here are still crowds of tourists coming from Santana, here the ascent is shorter and probably easier .... Write a comment ...
Very nice walk. Even though there are a lot of people there, it is still recommended. Best to walk there and back. Much less people on the way back
A road leads to the Pico do Arieiro with the radar station. If you get there early, before the buses and crowds arrive, it's even more of a quiet mountain setting. The way to Pico Ruivo is spectacular. Partly on the mountain ridge, through several tunnels and over steep stairs, it goes 300m down and later up again. A head for heights and a good physical condition are prerequisites. Some of the steps are very high and really get in the legs. Several hiking routes meet at Pico Ruivo. Here the bear tap-dances. The panoramic view of the island is fantastic.
We'd been told about this hike by various people. Its definitely one of the most touristy hikes but it is SPECTACULAR. Its a tough hike with LOTS of steps, but if youre good with that you'll love this route.
Very nice, easy to moderate hike with great views. Some steeper passages than rope-secured stairs. also suitable as a trail run
Actually, the Pico do Arieiro and the Ruives have almost the same height (1861 m and 1818 m) and the PR 1 hiking route is only 6 km long. But it was - far from it - not an easy tour, but very strenuous, because on the way you have to go around the second highest Pico das Torres (1851 m). It goes constantly up and down stone stairs with very high steps and extremely steep metal ladders. It was pure exertion, we were sweating heavily, and we were glad that we had enough water with us (there is only a small inn at the intersection with PR 1.2). The weather was great after sunrise (not the rule, be sure to check the weather report), there were fantastic views over the deeply rugged rocky landscape to the northeast and north as well as into the so-called Nonnental (Curral das Freiras). Fog formed in the afternoon. We have never been so happy to come across this weather phenomenon while hiking before, because we didn't have to make the last steep climb from the foot of the Pico do Torres to the Pico do Arieuro in the blazing afternoon sun that had previously warmed us too wonderfully. On the way around the Pico das Torres, several tunnels had to be crossed; a lamp is useful here. Overall: A very strenuous hike, but for us the royal tour on Madeira.
“Between giants” could be the motto of this impressive hike from the Pico do Arieiro to the Pico Ruivo on the Portuguese island of MADEIRA. The path leads from the 1,818 meter high Pico do Arieiro over narrow ridges, up and down threateningly steep stairs and through dark tunnels. The hike is an adrenaline-charged endurance test that often leads to gasping for breath and burning legs - especially on the climb up to the 1,862 meter high Pico Ruivo. But the euphoria prevailed, because the hike left us speechless not only because of the effort, but above all because of the spectacular views of Madeira's central mountains, which changed every second. https://www.landmeedchen.com/madeira-wandel-vom-pico-do-arieiro-zum-pico-ruivo/ https://thegreenwaves.com/wandel-vom-pico-do-arieiro-zum-pico-ruivo/
www.bewegunghilft.de This tour is definitely not for the inexperienced! You need a head for heights and sure-footedness! The path is difficult, steep, on narrow paths over countless steps and really requires stamina. A headlamp is recommended for the many tunnels through the spectacular mountains. You should start early, it gets really crowded from midday! There are 2 ways to get to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest mountain (1,862 m), one of them is this one starting at Pico Areeiro (1,818 m). The other starts east of Pico Ruivo at Achado do Teixeira and is less strenuous and only 3 km long, one way. Our tour could also be continued from Pico Ruivo to there, then it would be about 8.4 km. Taxis drive from one parking lot to another. Even the approx. 40 minute drive from Funchal, approx. 22 km, up to the starting point is spectacular, the serpentine roads are extremely steep, with wonderful views of Funchal.