There are 2 ways to go to Pico Ruivo (the highest mountain in Madeira):

1. start from Achada do Teixeira and do round tracking to Pico Ruivo 10 km both ways. The second option is my personal suggestion if you are first time in Madeira! It is better to go at sunrise to catch the sun rising above clouds. 2) to start tracking at Pico Areeiro by PR1 that takes about 11 km one way and in majority of cases there is a fog at that point in winer time.

N.B. Dress warm and in comfortable shoes. Those who do not go trekking - relax in a nearby cafe