Pico do Arieiro

"The most famous trail connects Pico do Arieiro (1,818m) to Pico Ruivo (1,862m), Madeira’s highest peak. It’s a point-to-point trail that covers 7 km (one-way) and takes approximately 3-5 hours, depending on your pace and stops. Enhance your experience by starting the trail at dawn, allowing you to catch the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro. You can choose the best spot to enjoy a spectacular view above the clouds. Trail Highlights: - On clear days, you might even see the ocean on both sides. - Ninho da Manta (Buzzard’s Nest): A scenic viewpoint early in the hike, perfect for photos. - The trail passes through tunnels carved into the rock—bring a flashlight! - Staircases cut into the mountainside. - Pico Ruivo Summit: The highest point in Madeira Difficulty: - The trail requires good physical fitness due to its steep ascents, descents, and uneven terrain. Around 1,200m cumulative ascent and descent round trip. - Some sections are narrow with steep drops, so it may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights. - In many sections of the trail, you'll be exposed to the sun, and during the high season, it can get very hot Best tip: For this trekking, renting a pick-up and drop-off service from your accommodation, even if you’ve rented a car, can offer several advantages: - You can be sure to arrive on time to catch the sunrise, avoiding the risk of getting lost on the way in the dark or struggling to find parking at Pico do Arieiro, especially during peak season when the spot can get very crowded. - You’ll stay updated on weather conditions (remember that the weather can change quickly). In case of bad weather, many agencies are available to reschedule or offer a full refund. - After the trail, the car picks you up at Pico Ruivo, so you don't have to walk back the tough route to Pico do Arieiro. - In our case, on the way back to the hotel, the driver gave us lots of helpful tips and was very willing to stop at a couple of spots along the way."

"🇬🇧 Pico do Arieiro Pico do Arieiro is the third highest peak on Madeira, standing at an altitude of 1,818 meters (5,966 feet). It is one of the island's most popular hiking destinations, known for its stunning views and dramatic landscapes. The summit is accessible by a well-maintained path that offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hike to the peak typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, and many visitors start their journey early to catch the mesmerizing sunrise. On a clear day, the views extend to the neighboring islands of Porto Santo and beyond. The Pico do Arieiro is also a crucial point on the famous trail that connects to Pico Ruivo, making it an excellent spot for both seasoned hikers and beginners looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience. 🇩🇪 Pico do Arieiro Der Pico do Arieiro ist der dritthöchste Gipfel Madeiras und hat eine Höhe von 1.818 Metern. Er ist eines der beliebtesten Wanderziele der Insel und bekannt für seine atemberaubenden Ausblicke und dramatischen Landschaften. Der Gipfel ist über einen gut markierten Weg erreichbar, der beeindruckende Panoramablicke auf die umliegenden Berge und Täler bietet. Die Wanderung zum Gipfel dauert in der Regel etwa 1 bis 2 Stunden, und viele Besucher beginnen ihre Tour früh, um den faszinierenden Sonnenaufgang zu erleben. An klaren Tagen erstrecken sich die Ausblicke bis zu den benachbarten Inseln Porto Santo und darüber hinaus. Der Pico do Arieiro ist auch ein wichtiger Punkt auf dem berühmten Wanderweg, der mit dem Pico Ruivo verbunden ist, und eignet sich somit hervorragend für erfahrene Wanderer sowie für Anfänger, die ein unvergessliches Outdoor-Erlebnis suchen."

"Pico do Arieiro is one of Madeira’s most iconic and breathtaking mountain peaks, standing at 1,818 meters (5,998 feet) above sea level. It’s the third-highest peak on the island and offers some of the most spectacular views of Madeira, with sweeping vistas of the island’s rugged mountains, deep valleys, and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance."