Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo★★★
The royal hike of Madeira: from Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), the third highest peak on the island, to Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), the highest point. The trail leads over a spectacular ridge path between the peaks — with drops on both sides, through tunnels, over stairs and rock ledges, often above the clouds. On clear days, the view extends to the neighboring island of Porto Santo and the horizon over 200 km away.
The Pico do Arieiro is accessible by car (road ER202, 30 min. from Funchal) and is already worth the experience: The parking lot is literally above the clouds, and at sunrise, the sea of clouds turns golden and pink — one of the most unforgettable natural spectacles in Europe. There is a café and a shelter here.
The hike to Pico Ruivo is 7 km long (one way), takes 3–3.5 hours, and is rated as medium difficulty — but the stairs and elevation changes (approx. 500 meters cumulative) make it more challenging than expected. There are two variants: the shorter, steeper "eastern path" and the longer, easier "western path". At the summit, the Abrigo do Pico Ruivo shelter awaits with WC and snacks.
Most hikers return the same way (a total of 14 km, 6–7 hours). Alternatively, you can descend from Pico Ruivo to Achada do Teixeira (45 min.) and arrange a taxi back there. This variant saves 3 hours but requires logistical planning.
The best time for the hike is early in the morning from 7 am — then the chances of clear views are greatest before the clouds rise. Weather on Madeira's mountains is unpredictable: It can change from bright sunshine to dense fog and icy wind within minutes. Even in summer, it can be below 10 °C on the peaks.
💡 Tipp
For sunrise at Pico do Arieiro: Set off around 5:30 am in summer (sunrise around 6:30 am). The road is open and lit at night. Warm clothing is mandatory even in August — it often has only 5–8 °C at the top in the morning. For those who shy away from the hike to Pico Ruivo: The sunrise alone at the Arieiro parking lot is worth getting up early.