Vereda do Areeiro (Areeiro → Ruivo)
Also known as: Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo
Madeira’s most iconic ridge walk across the island’s highest peaks

PR1 closure note
PR1 (Areeiro → Ruivo) is currently listed as closed until April 2026 due to August 2024 fire damage and repairs. Consider PR1.2 (Achada do Teixeira → Pico Ruivo) as an alternative on suitable weather days.
Trail Overview
Vereda do Areeiro (Areeiro → Ruivo) (PR1) is a hard vereda (mountain ridge) trail located in Madeira, Portugal. Starting from Pico do Areeiro and ending at Pico Ruivo, this 15.6km route typically takes 7-8 hours to complete.Madeira’s most iconic ridge walk across the island’s highest peaks. Exposed drops and vertigo triggers; extremely weather-dependent
Quick Facts
- Distance
- 15.6 km
- Duration
- 7-8 h
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation Gain
- 1000 m
Exposure & Heights
High exposure (5/5)
Very exposed ridge with major vertigo triggers; not suitable for fear of heights.
Tunnels
- Has tunnels
- Yes
- Headlamp
- Required
Route Details
- Starting Point
- Pico do Areeiro
- End Point
- Pico Ruivo
- Trail Type
- Vereda (mountain ridge)
Parking & Access
- Parking Location
- Pico do Areeiro car park
- Parking Cost
- Paid (check SIMplifica)
- Best Season
- Reopens after repairs (currently closed until April 2026)
Essential Equipment
Proper hiking boots, layers, headlamp, windproof jacket
Safety Information
Exposed drops and vertigo triggers; extremely weather-dependent
Permit Required
This route typically requires a paid permit. Always confirm the final requirements (price, timing, and who is exempt) in SIMplifica for your exact route and date.
