Madeira’s peaks and trails: from summit to eastern tip
The mountains at the heart of the island and the eastern peninsula: two very different trails, the same 2026 rules.
In short. The PR1 links Pico do Areeiro with Pico Ruivo, at 1,862 metres, on a one-way mountain crossing; the PR8 runs along Ponta de São Lourenço, by the sea, between 23 and 126 metres. Both need a booked time slot on SIMplifica; the fee is €10.50 for the full PR1 and €4.50 for the PR8.
The PR1 is for people who are fit: it climbs and drops a lot, has tunnels and steps cut into the rock, and finishes a long way from your car. The PR8 is shorter and lower, with cliffs you shouldn’t go near.
In the mountains the weather changes often: the average annual temperature is around 8 °C on the peaks, against 18 to 19 °C on the coast.
Peaks and trails · 2 tours
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
The mountain crossing to the island’s highest point
Fee €10.50
Ponta de São Lourenço
The island’s eastern tip, between cliffs and the sea
Fee €4.50
A tailor-made tour
Tell us what you’d like to see, when, and how many of you there are
No-obligation proposal
Side by side
| Tour | Duration | Route | Level | Official cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo | About 4 hrs on foot | 6.1 km plus 2.8 km to the exit | 4 of 5, challenging | Fee €10.50 |
| Ponta de São Lourenço | 2 hrs 30 on foot (official time) | 4 km out and 4 km back | 2 of 5, easy, with short climbs | Fee €4.50 |
Tips before you set off
- Book early on SIMplifica if you want to see the sunrise: the first PR1 slots are the most sought after.
- On the PR1, arrange your way back to the car in advance: the exit is via Achada do Teixeira, a 58-minute drive from Pico do Areeiro.
- Take warm layers, a torch for the tunnels and enough water.
- On the PR8, follow the diversion arrows around the works and keep away from the cliff edge.
Frequently asked questions
Can you do the PR1 there and back?
Only as far as the Miradouro da Pedra Rija: 1.2 km each way, with the €4.50 fee. From there to Pico Ruivo it’s one way only.
How much do the PR1 and PR8 cost?
€10.50 for the full PR1 and €4.50 for the PR8, for non-residents over 12. Children up to 12 and residents don’t pay, but they still have to book.
Which of the two is easier?
The PR8, which is shorter and lower. The IFCN information board warns that the PR1 calls for physical fitness and stamina.
Other types of tour
Levadas
Water channels with a path alongside, through the forest. Three to choose from, from a family stroll to a full day out.
3 tours
Island tours
For those who want to see a lot without walking much: two days on the road, one for each side of the island.
2 tours
In Funchal
The city and Monte in a day or two: the market, the painted doors, Madeira wine, the cable car and the toboggans.
2 tours
Sea and adventure
At sea, dolphins and whales all year round; in the mountain streams, canyoning for beginners. Always with licensed operators.
2 tours
Can’t find your tour? We’ll tailor one for you.
Tell us what you’d like to see, when, and how many of you there are. We’ll reply with a proposal, with no obligation.