PR 1.2 – Vereda do Pico Ruivo
The Easy Way to the Top of Madeira
Distancia
5.6 km (Round Trip)
Duración
1,5h - 2h
Dificultad
Moderado
Estado
✅ ABIERTO
La mejor época para visitarlo
💡 Consejo profesional: This is the “lazy” way to the summit, so it gets very busy with tour buses between 10:00 and 14:00. Sunset is often clearer and much quieter than sunrise.
⚠️ Grado de dificultad técnica
Why Hike Vereda do Pico Ruivo?
En PR 1.2 – Vereda do Pico Ruivo is the most accessible route to standing on top of Madeira (1,861m). Unlike the grueling PR 1 from Areeiro, this path is shorter (2.8km one way) and mostly paved.
It offers 360-degree panoramic views of the entire island, often floating above a sea of clouds. It is achievable for fit children and older hikers who take their time.
Mapa del sendero
From Achada do Teixeira Parking to the Summit.
Guía paso a paso
-
1
Achada do Teixeira (Start)
Park in the large lot at 1,592m. The trail begins at the far end, past the “Homem em Pé” rock formation.
-
2
The Shelters
The path winds gently up the ridge. You will pass several stone shelters (abrigos) used by shepherds and hikers to hide from sudden wind.
-
3
Casa de Abrigo
Just below the summit, you reach the mountain hut. This is the last toilet stop and a great place to refill water.
-
4
The Final Push
The last 500m is a steep climb up wooden and stone stairs to the summit platform. Take it slow!
📸 Los mejores lugares para hacer fotos
The “Standing Man” rock formation near the parking lot. A funny basalt statue carved by nature.
Halfway up the ridge, looking back towards the parking lot, you often see the cloud layer rolling over the northern cliffs.
The concrete trig point at 1,861m. On a clear day, you can see Ponta de São Lourenço (East) and Paul da Serra (West).
Instalaciones y servicios
Cómo llegar
The only way to reach the start is by driving up the ER 218 road from Santana.
🛑 Winter Access Warning
In winter, this road is sometimes closed due to ice or rockfall. Always check the official IFCN road status before driving up.
La perspectiva del conductor
🚘 Driving to Achada do Teixeira
A scenic climb through Santana.
Nuestra recomendación de alquiler: The road is good but long and uphill. Any car can make it, but a car with decent power makes the 20-minute climb from Santana much more enjoyable. This is Madeira Island has reliable vehicles for mountain roads.
Equipo esencial
- Rompevientos: It is almost always windy at the summit.
- Protector solar: The UV index at 1800m is extreme, even on cloudy days.
- Agua: Bring 1L. The cafe at the start is not always open early/late.
🍹 Después de la excursión: ¿dónde comer?
Restaurante O Colmo (Santana)
After descending back to Santana, stop here for a hearty meal. They serve excellent regional dishes like Milho Frito (Fried Maize) and local beef stews.
