Pico do Arieiro - Pico Ruivo - Achada do Teixeira Walk

Overview

This walk starts at Pico do Areeiro, at approximately 1818 meters above sea level and we make our way to the highest point of Madeira, Pico Ruivo, around 1861 meters. It is possible to witness panoramic views of Madeira over the central mountain range that are absolutely breathtaking. This is the only known breeding site in the world of Zino’s petrel (Pterodroma madeira), an endemic species considered to be the most endangered seabird of Europe. In this area, the vegetation of altitude is predominant, mainly of Centenary endemic Urzes; these large trees predate Madeira’s discovery. To reach Pico Ruivo, we must go around Pico das Torres up a steep incline of steps carved in the rock and then descend, the most difficult part of this trail being the final climb to the Shelter at Pico Ruivo. But the thought of reaching the highest point of the island is a driving force. Near the Pico Ruivo shelter, we take footpath, which leads to Achada do Teixeira, where we finish our journey.