The PR1.1 Vereda da Ilha Hiking Trail footpath takes about 8.2 km with a duration of 3 hours. This route starts in Teixeira da Achada (Santana) with a short climb to the highest summit of Madeira, Pico Ruivo. In the Pico Ruivo shelter house begins a long and almost continuous descent to the village Ilha.
During this route through two types of ecosystems that make up the European network of important community sites – Natura 2000: the central mountain massif and the Laurissilva forest. In the Massif Central Mountainous we found characterized by herbaceous and shrub vegetation well adapted to large temperature variations, heavy rains and strong winds. Here we find centenarians plant specimens heather plants (Erica scoparia) that are hundreds of years old.. As we descend in altitude we found the Laurissilva Forest – Laurel Forest, located in the fog area, between 1200 and the altitude of 400m.
During this route may also catch sight of some birds like firecrest (Regulus ignicapus madeirensis), the chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs) and the long-toed pigeon (Columba trocaz trocaz).
We arrive to the parish of the Ilha belonging to the Santana Municipality.Following the asphalt road stop by Achada do Marques, a small hamlet known for its typical “poios” (agricultural fields) and old straw lofts where this route ends.
Distance: 8.2 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3 hours
Start/Finish: Pico Ruivo Shelter House / Ilha Parish
Highest point/Lowest point: 1764 m / 485 m
Warning tips: The Climate is very variable, take warm clothes.