MIUT 2026 - Madeira Island Ultra Trail Returns April 25-26
The Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) 2026 runs April 25-26 with PR1 trail reopening for the event. Race distances, course details, and spectator tips for Madeira's biggest trail running event.
Event at a glance
- Dates: April 25-26, 2026 (Friday-Saturday)
- Location: Start/finish in Machico, traversing Madeira's central peaks
- Distances: Ultra (115km), Marathon (42km), Mini (16km)
- Significance: PR1 trail reopens for MIUT before public access on April 27
What is MIUT?
The Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) is one of Europe's most prestigious trail running events. Since its inaugural edition, it has attracted elite ultra-runners and passionate amateurs from around the world to compete across Madeira's dramatic mountain terrain.
The flagship 115km ultra course traverses the island from Porto Moniz to Machico, crossing Madeira's highest peaks — including the recently reconstructed PR1 trail between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo. The 2026 edition carries special significance as the first event to use PR1 since the August 2024 wildfire.
2026 race distances
Ultra (115km)
The full island traverse. 7,200m elevation gain. Start: Porto Moniz. Finish: Machico. Cut-off: 36 hours.
Marathon (42km)
Covers the central mountain section including PR1. Approximately 2,500m elevation gain.
Mini (16km)
The most accessible distance. A great introduction to Madeira trail running without extreme commitment.
PR1 reopening connection
The 2026 MIUT is the first event to use the PR1 trail since its reconstruction after the August 2024 wildfire. Trail runners in the Ultra and Marathon distances will cross the restored ridgeline between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo on April 25-26.
Public hiking access to PR1 begins the following day, April 27. This makes MIUT 2026 a symbolic reopening moment for Madeira's most famous trail.
Spectator tips
Even if you're not running, MIUT is a fantastic event to watch. Here are the best spots:
- Pico do Areeiro: Accessible by car, this viewpoint lets you watch runners arrive at one of the highest points. Arrive early for parking.
- Achada do Teixeira: The other access point near Pico Ruivo. Watch runners descend from the summit area.
- Machico finish line: The atmosphere at the finish is electric, with runners completing the ultra in daylight and through the night.
Impact on hiking plans
During MIUT weekend (April 25-26), certain trails used for the race course may have temporary restrictions. In particular:
- • PR1 is reserved for race participants on April 25-26 (public access from April 27)
- • Some mountain trails may have temporary closures or diversions during race hours
- • Parking at Pico do Areeiro may be limited due to event logistics
If you're planning to hike during MIUT weekend, check the trail status page for any temporary restrictions, and consider lower-altitude levada walks on event days.
Planning a hike after MIUT?
April 27 onwards is an excellent time to hike the newly reopened PR1. Book your slot early on SIMplifica — the first weeks will have high demand.