Really enjoyed this hike. It can be challenging however it is around 700meters you are going up. You do need some change to pay for the route which I thought would have been paid for by TUI however it wasn’t. Incredible staff- really funny and stayed at a steady pace. Lots of stops along the way too! Need some level of fitness to do this hike.
Ready to conquer Madeira's highest peak? This trail kicks off at Miradouro do Picarouto in Santana, taking you to Pico Ruivo – towering 1,861 meters above the island. You'll get to soak up wow-factor views of rugged peaks like Pico das Torres and Pico do Areeiro along the way, plus glimpses of Penha d'Águia and the Ponta de São Lourenço rock formations. Pause at cosy shelters for a snack before continuing the climb. It's steep, but those 360° views from the summit? Pure Madeira magic.