The PR1 Vereda do Areeiro is the hike most people picture when they think of Madeira: a high mountain path that links the island's three highest peaks – Pico do Areeiro (1,818 m), Pico das Torres (1,851 m) and Pico Ruivo (1,862 m). On a clear day you walk above a sea of clouds, through tunnels cut into volcanic rock and along narrow ridges with drops on both sides.
After a long closure following the 2024 wildfire and rockfalls, the trail reopened in spring 2026 with new rules: mandatory booking, a one-way system and a higher fee than other trails.
PR1 at a glance
- Start: Pico do Areeiro viewpoint
- End: Pico Ruivo (exit via PR1.2 to the Achada do Teixeira car park)
- Distance: 6.1 km, one way
- Duration: approx. 3 hours
- Difficulty: moderate – lots of steps, steep sections and exposed ridges
- Booking: mandatory via the SIMplifica portal
Two ways to hike PR1
Full route: Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo
The full crossing is now strictly one-way: you may only walk from Pico do Areeiro towards Pico Ruivo. From Pico Ruivo you continue on the PR1.2 down to Achada do Teixeira. Because start and end are far apart by road, plan your transfer in advance – a taxi, a second car or a guided tour with pick-up.
Short section: Pico do Areeiro to Pedra Rija viewpoint
If you only want a taste of the trail, you can walk from Pico do Areeiro to the Pedra Rija miradouro and back along the same path (1.2 km each way). This section has a lower fee and is a good option if the full route is fully booked.
Booking and fees
All official PR trails on Madeira must be booked in advance on the regional SIMplifica portal. For PR1 the fee is €10.50 per person for the full route and €4.50 for the short section to Pedra Rija. Children up to 12 and Madeira residents are exempt but still need to register. Popular sunrise slots sell out quickly, so book as soon as your travel dates are fixed.
Fees, opening days and temporary closures can change – always check the current status on SIMplifica before you go.
Getting there
Pico do Areeiro is reachable by car via a mountain road from Funchal (around 45 minutes). There is a car park at the summit, but it fills up early, especially at sunrise. Public transport to the start is practically non-existent, so most hikers drive or join a tour.
Best time to hike PR1
Start early. Mornings usually have the clearest views, and sunrise above the clouds at Pico do Areeiro is unforgettable. Clouds often build up towards midday. In winter, temperatures at the top can drop close to freezing and paths can be icy; after heavy rain or storms the trail may be closed.
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip
- Warm layers and a windproof jacket – it is much colder at 1,800 m than on the coast
- A headlamp for the tunnels (and for sunrise starts)
- Water and snacks – there is a small shelter near Pico Ruivo, but don't rely on it
- Sun protection
FAQ
Do I need to book PR1 in advance?
Yes. Access to PR1 requires prior registration and payment on the SIMplifica portal.
Can I hike PR1 in both directions?
No. The full route is one-way from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo. Only the short section to the Pedra Rija viewpoint can be walked there and back.
Is PR1 suitable for beginners?
Fit beginners without a fear of heights can manage it, but expect many steps, steep stairs and exposed sections. If you are unsure, start with the short section to Pedra Rija.
How long does PR1 take?
Plan around 3 hours for the 6.1 km from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, plus time for the descent to Achada do Teixeira.
Keep exploring
Discover more trails on our hiking overview and find out how many days you need in Madeira to fit in the best hikes.
