Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks at 1,818 meters, offers breathtaking views of the island's rugged landscape. Accessible by car, it's a popular spot for sunrise and sunset hikes.

Whether you catch the sunrise or soak in the sunset, this viewpoint promises an unforgettable experience that will make you feel on top of the world!

PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the island's highest point, is a challenging yet rewarding adventure, featuring dramatic ridges and stunning vistas. With its unique flora and fauna, Pico do Arieiro is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.

Make sure to check the weather and cloud conditions in the area via a webcam 1 before heading out.

If you haven’t rented a car, you can book an affordable transfer with a reliable company here for sunrise and here for sunset (I recommend sunset)

If you prefer a more private transfer, you can book it through this link.

NOTE: Many people come here to complete the legendary PR1 between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.

Starting May 1st 2026 the trail is fully open again.
But it doesn’t mean you have to hike the entire route.

PR1 is physically demanding — I’d rate it as moderate, leaning towards difficult, especially if you’re not used to exposed mountain terrain.

If you want to avoid complex logistics like return transfers,
but still experience the trail at its best — there’s a smarter way:

👉 Hike the short section (1,2 km) to “Stairway to Heaven” (Pedra Rija viewpoint) and back — €4.50
(This is the most scenic part of PR1 — and notably cheaper than the full trail at €10.50)

👉 Then drive to Achada do Teixeira and hike PR1.2 to Pico Ruivo (5,6 km total)

You’ll still see all the highlights —
just in a much more efficient (and enjoyable) way 👌

I wrote a detailed article explaining the advantages of this strategy for visiting PR1, including logistics, timing, costs, weather considerations, and practical tips. I hope you’ll find it useful and that it helps you plan a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the legendary PR1 trail.