This walk is an alternative for those who want to reach Madeira’s top in a more accessible way (Pico Ruivo 1862m).
This course starts at Achadas do Teixeira and it goes for approximately 6km. This is not an easy path, but it is not as demanding as if you would start at Pico do Areeiro. It is more than 300 meters going up, as well as coming down, giving a total of 3 hours walking.
All this trail is integrated in the Natura 2000 Network, an European network of great importance regarding nature. Throughout this walk, you will be able to see the central mountain range of Madeira (Paul da Serra, Encumeada, Pico do Areeiro e o Pico Ruivo).
Here, the vegetation is mostly composed of trees of extreme resistance, like the Urze (Erica arborea), which can sustain the strong winds and weather variations known to this area. The vast majority of these trees are centennial others, predate Madeira’s discovery.
After going for around 3km, we get to Pico Ruivo (1862m), where you will be dazzled with great views that can only be seen from up there, from the highest point in Madeira. One of the best things about this walk, is the feeling of walking on clouds, a unique and incomparable experience.