Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike (PR1)

The hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (PR1) is Madeira’s most famous walk, and one of the most spectacular in Europe. It follows a ridge path above the clouds, through tunnels and up rock staircases, between the island’s third-highest and highest peaks. Here’s what you need to know.

Quick answer: the trail is about 6km and takes 3 hours or more, with lots of steps. It is now one-way only, from Arieiro to Ruivo, finishing at Achada do Teixeira, so arrange a pickup or taxi. You must book a slot and pay the fee (€10.50, or €7 with a guide) on the official portal. Check the trail status the day before. See guided hikes with transport.

The route

1. Pico do Arieiro (1,818m): start at the summit car park, reachable by road.
2. The ridge: a paved and carved path with railings, steep staircases and narrow sections along the knife-edge crest.
3. The tunnels: several short tunnels through the rock. Bring a torch.
4. Pico Ruivo (1,862m): the highest point in Madeira, a short climb from the rest house below the summit.
5. Achada do Teixeira: walk down to the car park on the north side for your pickup.

Sunrise

Watching the sun rise over the clouds from Pico do Arieiro is a Madeira highlight. Many people watch the sunrise first and then start the hike. See sunrise tours.

What to bring

• Layers: it can be cold and windy at 1,800m, even in summer.
• Good shoes with grip.
• Water and snacks.
• A torch for the tunnels.

Safety

• Vertigo: some sections are exposed, though protected by railings.
• Weather: clouds and rain can roll in fast, and the trail closes in bad weather.
• Fitness: the steps are relentless, so it’s tougher than the distance suggests.

Getting there

Pico do Arieiro is about 40 minutes’ drive from Funchal, and parking there is paid. A guided hike with transport solves the one-way problem. See the best Madeira tours.

More: Madeira levada walks, hiking in Portugal and the Madeira itinerary.

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