The highest peaks in Madeira are the stars of the show on this hike, where you'll feel closer and closer to the sky. You'll walk along rugged terrain and undulating paths up Pico Arieiro, Pico do Gato and Pico Ruivo – but there's stunning panoramas from the get-go.
You'll start the hike by driving up Pico Arieiro where you'll walk to a vantage point, Ninho da Manta, to survey the mountains around you. Here you'll set out along the path that looks over Nun's Valley, before passing through three small tunnels that cut through Pico do Gato.
You'll need to have your wits about you as you step along the rock face to the mountain hut at Pico Ruivo. But it's worth it, as the viewing platform on the highest peak is within touching distance – and once you're there, you'll have 360-degree views of Madeira. The last part of the route takes you to Achada do Teixeira where the bus is waiting to drive you to Santana for a well-deserved drink.
Walking tour
