Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo in Madeira - PR1 Hike to the Stairway to Heaven

When Is the Best Time

The most popular and spectacular hike in Madeira is the PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro (1816 m) to Pico Ruivo (1862 m), the island’s highest peak. Due to its growing popularity, the trail is now one‑way only, and hikers are required to obtain a permit. You may hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, but returning on foot is no longer allowed.

A hiker on the Stairway to Heaven in winter — My husband Markus on the Stairway to Heaven when the clouds are rolling in.

This ridge walk is famous for its dramatic scenery and for the iconic section known as the “Stairway to Heaven”, located roughly a 30‑minute hike from Pico do Arieiro. In this guide, I share all essential details for this bucket‑list trail — where the Stairway to Heaven is located, what to consider and pack, and my top tips to get the most out of this unique and demanding hike.

Steep part with hundred of steps from Arieiro to Ruivo and back — Demanding steps through a breathtaking landscape on the entire trail from Arieiro to Ruivo.

PR1 is a challenging trail, especially for hikers not used to climbing mountains. The entire route took me less than three hours, but I live in the Alps and climb summits weekly. If you don’t have knee issues and are comfortable with steep ascents and descents, this exceptional hike is absolutely worth it.

A group of hikers on the Pico Arieiro trail — Even with such a blue sky, be aware that the weather can change quickly.

Expect a true leg burner: long staircases, steep climbs, dark tunnels, and rugged terrain. Plan around four hours including breaks. Even if you only stay in Madeira for a week, this trail is a Must‑Do.

For the best experience, watch the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro before starting or enjoy the sunset afterwards when returning to your rental car.

Trail Status Update: Pico do Arieiro → Pico Ruivo (PR1)

The Stairway to Heaven between Pico Arieiro and Pico Ruivo — The "Stairway to Heaven" is roughly a 30-minute hike from Pico Arieiro

The famous ridge trail between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo (PR1) has reopened in April 2026 after being closed for almost two years due to wildfire damage. The entire route is now fully accessible again, but with new regulations in place.

What’s new in 2026

Mandatory booking via the SIMplifica system
Madeira Island Hiking fees
€10.50 entry fee per hiker
Timed entry slots every 30 minutes
One‑way direction only: Pico do Arieiro → Pico Ruivo
ID check may occur at the start of the trail
No entry without a confirmed booking
Rebuilt walkways, reinforced tunnels, and improved safety infrastructure

Getting Back to Your Car or Hotel

Hikers at the viewpoint on Pico Ruivo. — The beautiful viewpoint at the end of the track at Pico Ruivo.

This is the biggest change for hikers and challenging.

You have three options:

A) Pre‑book a shuttle (recommended)

Several companies now offer Arieiro drop‑off + Achada do Teixeira pick‑up packages. This is the easiest and most reliable solution.

B) Taxi pick‑up at Achada do Teixeira

Taxis wait here on busy days, but it’s safer to pre‑book. Expect around €40–€60 depending on destination.

C) Two‑car solution

If you’re traveling with friends, leave one car at Achada do Teixeira and drive the other to Pico do Arieiro. This avoids waiting for shuttles or taxis.

Is Pico do Arieiro Worth Visiting?

Hikers at the beginning of the PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro, with the rugged peak of Pico das Torres rising above the dramatic mountain ridges. — The start of the PR1 trail at Pico do Arieiro, looking toward Pico das Torres.

Yes — Pico do Arieiro is one of Madeira’s top viewpoints and a must‑visit for anyone exploring the island. It’s the third‑highest peak in Madeira and incredibly easy to reach by car, making it one of the most accessible high‑altitude experiences on the island. From the parking area, it’s only a short walk to both the summit and the famous sunset viewpoint. The peak itself is reached via a staircase, while the sunset spot is wheelchair accessible.

Sunset Above the Clouds at Pico do Arieiro

The sunset from Pico Arieiro above the clouds — The spectacular sunset from Pico do Arieiro and the beginning of the famous PR1 hike.

Many travelers come to Pico do Arieiro specifically for the sunset above the clouds, one of the most iconic experiences in Madeira. On clear days, you can even see the São Lourenço Peninsula stretching into the Atlantic. The views from the summit include the dramatic mountain range leading toward Pico Ruivo, the cloudier north coast, and Madeira’s highest peaks — all of which make sunrise and sunset here truly spectacular.

Sunset above the clouds at Pico do Arieiro, with rugged mountain ridges and a narrow trail leading through the dramatic high‑altitude landscape. — A breathtaking sunset above the cloud inversion at Pico do Arieiro, illuminating the rugged mountain ridges along the PR1 trail.

Why Pico do Arieiro Is a Must‑See

The view to the north east with a few clouds — You are able to see the Sao Lourenco Peninsula on a clear day - in the back to the right.

Whether you’re here for the PR1 hike, the Stairway to Heaven viewpoint, or simply want an unforgettable panorama without a long climb, Pico do Arieiro delivers some of the best mountain scenery in Madeira. Its combination of easy access, dramatic ridges, and reliable cloud inversions makes it one of the island’s most rewarding stops.

How to Get to Pico do Arieiro?

Pico Arieiro in Madeira at sunset — Pico Arieiro's white radar installation belonging to the NATO station of the Portuguese Air Force

There is no public transport to Pico do Arieiro, so you must either drive or book a transfer. The road from Funchal takes about 40 minutes and climbs steeply to the summit at 1,800 m, making it one of Madeira’s most challenging mountain drives.

Taxi or Rental Car

Madeira’s taxi system is reliable and reasonably priced, and rental cars offer full flexibility for sunrise or sunset visits. However, the winding mountain road can be challenging, especially in changing weather conditions.

Transfer & Tours to Pico do Arieiro

Hikers on the trail and view to the clouds in the north — The clouds in the north - view close to Pico Ruivo, the end of the PR1 trail.

If you prefer avoiding the steep drive or want to hike the famous PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, a guided tour is the easiest and safest option. Tours include transport, local insights during the ride, and pick‑up/drop‑off — ideal if you want to enjoy the views without worrying about logistics.

These tours are perfect for travelers who want to experience the best sunrise or sunset, safe transport, and a seamless PR1 hiking experience. However, you must book a permit for your PR1 Hike, it is not included in any offered tour.

The summit of Pico Ruivo was a little crowded — You are able to see Pico Arieiro from Pico Ruivo on a clear day.

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Best Time to Hike PR1 from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

Hiking Sign for PR1 to Pico Ruivo — To the right is the staircase to the summit of Pico do Arieiro and to the left starts PR1.

The PR1 hike is possible year‑round, but spring and autumn offer the best overall conditions. Madeira is never extremely hot at Pico do Arieiro thanks to the 1,800 m elevation, yet you will still sweat a lot even in May because the trail is steep and exposed. The bigger risk in summer is the extremely strong sun, often reaching a UV index of 11, which makes sun protection essential.

The pride of Madeira along the winding roads to Pico Arieiro — In May and June you are able to see the "Pride of Madeira" along the roads to Pico Arieiro.

👉 The "Pride of Madeira" is native to this island. The plants can grow to a height of 1,5-2,5 m.

In winter, the summit can experience snow, ice, and occasional trail closures, especially around Pico das Torres. For the most reliable weather, fewer crowds, and safer trail conditions, aim for March to June or September to November. These months offer the best chance for clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and unforgettable sunrise or sunset views above the clouds.

The Best Time of Day to Visit Pico do Arieiro

Steep hike already in the beginning from Arieiro to Ruivo — What a spectacular view and hike already in the beginning.

Pico do Arieiro often offers its clearest views in the morning, when the summit sits above the cloud layer that typically rises later in the day. If you plan to hike the PR1 trail, starting early is essential — not only for the best visibility but also because the intense sun and UV index of up to 11 make the exposed ridge much harder as the day progresses.

The main car park at Pico Arieiro — The smaller car park next to the peak fills up quickly.

There’s also a practical reason to arrive early: parking at Pico do Arieiro is very limited, especially for those who want to visit the Stairway to Heaven viewpoint and hike part of PR1. By mid‑morning, the small summit parking area often fills up, making early arrival the safest choice. More about parking below.

On clear days, the sunset at Pico do Arieiro is spectacular, especially when the cloud inversion forms below the peaks. But since clouds often roll in around midday, the most reliable conditions for hiking and photography are early morning for PR1 and late afternoon for sunset.

Parking at Pico do Arieiro

The new parking one km away. — The newly built parking lots easy to reach on a shortcut.

Parking at Pico do Arieiro is limited, especially in summer and on clear mornings when many hikers start the PR1 trail early. If you plan to hike PR1, it’s best to arrive before 9 a.m.; otherwise, you may end up waiting 30 minutes or longer until day visitors leave and a space becomes available. Google Maps summit Parking

There is a new overflow parking area about 1 km before the main summit parking, but even with the additional spaces built in winter 2025, capacity is still not sufficient on busy days. Both parking areas operate with a maximum fee of 5 € per day, which is reasonable considering the location. Google Maps overflow parking

Hiking Trail Description: PR1 Pico do Arieiro → Pico Ruivo

Information board for the Pico do Arieiro hike — PR1 also called Vereda do Areeiro - all details are shown at the trailhead.

👉 Information board high resolution

The PR1 Vereda do Areeiro is Madeira’s most famous mountain hike — a dramatic ridge trail connecting Pico do Arieiro (1,800 m) with Pico Ruivo (1,862 m). It offers some of the island’s most spectacular views, steep staircases carved into the rock, tunnels through the mountains, and exposed sections that make this route unforgettable.

Trail Overview

The first viewpoint along PR1 Pico do Arieiro offers sweeping views over the jagged ridges and cloud inversion. — The first key viewpoint: Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, reached after 20 minutes, offers fantastic views.

Trail name: PR1 Vereda do Areeiro
Trail length: 6.1 km one way
Duration: 3–4 hours (experienced hikers: 2–3 hours)
Elevation gain: 1,132 m one way
Difficulty: Challenging
Navigation: No map needed — the trail is perfectly marked
Terrain: Cobblestones, steep staircases, exposed ridges, tunnels

A breathtaking scenery where a never ending staircase is leading through — The endless staircase that was carved into the rock and the spectacular mountain scenery.

This is a strenuous mountain hike with constant ascents and descents. If you’re not used to climbing mountains, expect a leg burner — even experienced hikers feel their calves the next day. I’ve hiked PR1 multiple times, including the full return route when it was still allowed.

Trail Conditions & Safety

A narrow and exposed part of the track with broom to the right — In May, yellow broom flowers along the narrow hiking trail

The trail is well maintained, but:

Cobblestones can be slippery when wet
Several sections are exposed
Weather changes quickly at 1,800 m
You pass through multiple tunnels, including one through Pico das Torres (1,851 m) — a headlamp is helpful

Bring enough water, a proper lunch, and energy food. PR1 burns calories like few other hikes in Madeira.

Stairway to Heaven (Madeira’s Instagram Spot)

The steep staircase with a blue sky in the back — The "Stairway to Heaven" above the clouds in the afternoon.

The famous Stairway to Heaven viewpoint lies about 1.2 km from the trailhead (2.3 km return). Hiking time: ~30 minutes one way

Best time for photography:

Morning: Harsh light, strong shadows
Afternoon: Perfect sunlight, glowing ridges, best conditions for photos
Hiking Map until the stairs by Locus Map App

This viewpoint is one of Madeira’s most photographed locations — a steep staircase rising above the clouds.

Approaching Pico Ruivo

A hiker and plenty of hiking sign at Pico Ruivo — And more steps shortly before you reach Pico Ruivo and hiking signs for PR1 - PR11 - PR12.

Shortly before reaching Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), you pass the mountain hut Casa de Abrigo, where you can buy drinks, food, and even stay overnight.

The mountain hut nestled in a breathtaking landscape. — The mountain hut "Casa de Abrigo" shortly before Pico Ruivo.

The summit of Pico Ruivo offers outstanding views, but it can be crowded. In the past, hikers could return to Pico do Arieiro on the same trail — this is no longer possible today.

Summary: What Makes PR1 Special

View out of one of the tunnels. — There are plenty of tunnels - a headlamp is well-needed.

One of Madeira’s most iconic hikes
Dramatic ridges and staircases carved into the rock
Multiple tunnels through the mountains
Constant ascents and descents — challenging but rewarding
Perfect for sunrise, afternoon photography, and cloud‑inversion views
Home to the legendary Stairway to Heaven

Packing Checklist for Pico Arieiro

A hiker on the narrow and exposed track — Oskar, my fellow hiker on the way back - the exposed sections are secured with a rope.

Wind jacket — It’s often windy at 1,800 m, and weather can change quickly.
Fleece layer — Temperatures drop fast, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Plenty of water — Essential in summer; the steep ascents make you sweat even in spring.
Proper lunch + energy food — PR1 is demanding and burns a lot of calories.
Headlamp — Useful for the tunnels and for winter days with shorter daylight hours.
Sun protection — Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are crucial; the UV index can reach 11 at Pico do Arieiro.

My Top Tip for Sunset Watching at Pico Arieiro

For the best sunset at Pico do Arieiro, always check the Pico do Arieiro webcam before driving up. At 1,800 m elevation, the summit often sits inside clouds, and the steep mountain road is long and winding. On clear days, the sunset above the cloud inversion is one of Madeira’s most spectacular experiences.

Where to Stay in Madeira — My Top Recommendations

Madeira offers many beautiful places to stay, but two of my favourite bases for exploring the island — and enjoying reliable sunshine — are Calheta and Ponta do Sol. Both towns are located on the south coast, offer excellent swimming conditions, most sunshine hours, and have hotels perfectly positioned near the beach.

Calheta — Great for Beach Lovers & Families

Calheta Beach Resort perfectly located — The Calheta Beach Resort is perfectly located next to Calheta Beach.

👉 The Calheta Beach Resort is excellently located in front of the beach and sea.

Calheta is home to one of the very few sandy beaches in Madeira, protected by breakwaters that create calm, shallow water — ideal for children and relaxed swimming. Snorkelling is excellent at high tide, and everything you need is within walking distance, including a Pingo Doce supermarket.

Why I Recommend Calheta

One of Madeira’s only sand beaches
Calm, protected bay — perfect for swimming and snorkelling
Family‑friendly and easy to navigate
Beachfront hotels with great locations

Ponta do Sol — One of the Sunniest Places in Madeira

Ponta do Sol Promenade and bay — The breakwater protects the bay and hotels of Ponta do Sol.

Ponta do Sol is a charming coastal town with a historic centre, lovely restaurants, and a beautifully protected bay. It’s one of the sunniest spots on the island, making it a favourite for swimming and relaxing by the sea.

👉 Hotels in Ponta do Sol

Why I Recommend Ponta do Sol

Extremely sunny microclimate
Beautiful promenade and protected bay
Great restaurants and a picturesque old town
Several highly‑rated hotels directly at the waterfront

A Note of Thanks

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My Madeira Guides

The breathtaking high cliffs and volcanic rocks. — Miradouro de Sao Lourenco viewpoint - another great hike in Madeira.

Would you like to know more about Madeira? Check out my new guides with tips for an excellent stay on this breathtaking island of Portugal.

Map Madeira with 19 Highlights — Our 19 Highlights of Madeira marked on my map.

👉 Map high resolution

Who Are We?

A female photograper at a viewpoint on Pico Arieiro — My husband Markus took this photo before we watched the sunset - me looking to the Eagle Rock at the north coast.

We are passionate travellers, and this project has been close to my heart since 2015. Over the years, we’ve explored countless trails, hidden gems, and breathtaking landscapes — and everything you find on Best Time 2 Travel comes from our own experiences, our own photos, and our genuine love for discovering the world.

Creating high‑quality, authentic travel guides takes time, dedication, and a lot of work, especially today when the internet is full of copied content and AI‑generated articles. We don’t run ads, and we can’t make a living from this — but we continue because we truly believe in real travel stories, honest tips, and helping you plan unforgettable adventures.

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Location and Tips

Funchal

Portugal

This hiking trail is challenging for those not used to climbing mountains. The entire track took me less than 4 hours, but I live in the mountains and climb to the summits weekly. If you don't have any knee issues, you should do this exceptional hike.