PR 1.1 – Vereda da Ilha
The Green Descent to the North
Distance
8.2 km (One Way)
Duration
3h (Downhill)
Difficulty
Moderate
Status
✅ OPEN
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This is one of the quietest trails in the central massif. Most people go to Arieiro or Achada do Teixeira. If you want solitude in the ancient forest, this is it.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Vereda da Ilha?
The PR 1.1 – Vereda da Ilha is a journey through different climate zones. You start in the high-altitude heath (bare rock and shrubs) at Pico Ruivo and descend deep into the humid, green heart of the UNESCO Laurisilva forest.
It feels like descending from the sky into a jungle. The silence here is profound, broken only by the local Chaffinches (Tentilhões).
Trail Map
Descending from Pico Ruivo Shelter to Ilha Church.
Step-by-Step Guide
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1
Pico Ruivo Shelter (Start)
The trail begins *behind* the Casa de Abrigo shelter (below the summit). Look for the sign pointing north to “Ilha”.
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2
The Ridge Descent
The first 2km are open and offer fantastic views of the north coast (Santana). The path is dirt and can be slippery.
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3
Vale da Lapa
You enter the dense Laurisilva forest. The air cools down, and you are surrounded by giant ferns and mossy trees.
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4
Ilha Village (Finish)
The trail ends on a paved road in the quiet parish of Ilha. Continue down to the main church to find the cafe/taxi spot.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Looking back up at Pico Ruivo from the start of the trail gives a unique angle of the summit not seen from Achada do Teixeira.
In the Vale da Lapa section, the trees form a dark, green tunnel. Perfect for moody, foggy photography.
As you emerge from the forest, you get a bird’s eye view of the orange rooftops of Ilha nestled in the green valley.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
Most hikers treat this as the “second half” of a bigger hike. They hike to Pico Ruivo (PR 1.2) and then descend via PR 1.1.
🚕 Taxi Required
If you leave your car at Achada do Teixeira (Pico Ruivo parking), you will end up in Ilha, far from your car. You MUST arrange a taxi to take you from Ilha back to your car (approx 40 min drive).
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 Remote North Roads
Steep, quiet village roads.
Our Rental Recommendation: The roads around Santana and Ilha are twisty and often wet. A car with good tires and handling is essential. This is Madeira Island maintains their fleet perfectly for these conditions.
Essential Gear
- Hiking Poles: Crucial! The 1300m descent puts massive strain on knees. Poles help significantly.
- Grip Shoes: The forest floor is often damp and slippery with mud.
- Layers: You start in the cold wind and end in a warm village. Dress in layers.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Bar O’ Calado (Ilha)
A small, authentic local bar near the church in Ilha. It’s the meeting point for hikers waiting for taxis. They serve cold beer, coffee, and simple sandwiches. A true local experience.
