Due to the fires that affected the island in August 2024, the main jike attraction in Madeira - PR1 and PR1.2 trails have been under maintenance. Unfortunately, there isn't an official date for opening yet. However, one of the most beautiful parts of the trail PR1, called Stairway to Heaven, is still open and well maintained, being highly recommended as one of the most famous attractions - Ninho da Manta viewpoint.

DESCRIPTION:

Experience the most amazing natural scenery as you walk on the PR1 Stairway to Heaven Trail, on a hike in Pico do Arieiro for the sunrise. Walk at your own pace with total freedom as you enjoy the fantastic views. This viewpoint is located next to Pousada do Pico do Arieiro, so-called because it is the place where the bird of prey known as buzzard (Buteo buteo) nested. From this point it is possible to see São Roque do Faial and the valley of Fajã da Nogueira, the chosen nesting place of the manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus).

After Stairway to Heavens trail, enjoy the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail, from there you can enjoy the view over the valley of Ribeira do Cidrão, which flows into Ribeira dos Socorridos at Curral das Freiras, or over the Paul da Serra plateau. On this walk along Vereda do Burro, you will also have the opportunity to pass by Poço da Neve, an igloo-shaped reservoir dating back to 1813, once used to store snow and hail that fell sporadically on the highest mountains of Funchal.

Finish this amazing walk at the End of Ecological Park, where you can visit a small donkeys farm in a valley and heat up with a hot chocolate at the Restaurante Barracão.

PROGRAM:

Start in PICO DO ARIEIRO (If you are booked for the Sunrise).If you are booked for the Morning 08.00am slot, its not for the sunrise.

Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Stairway to Heaven (1.2km), then return to Pico do Arieiro (+1.2km) Hike PR3 VEREDA DO BURRO (7.2km).

This combination includes 10 km of hike, for 5 hours (same as the original hike booked. Here you can have an idea of the Trail PR3 VEREDA DO BURRO: https://visitmadeira.com/pt/o-que-fazer/exploradores-da-natureza/atividades/caminhadas/pr-3-vereda-do-burro/

Upon arrival to Pico do Arieiro, you will initiate the Stairways to heaven trail, one of the most iconic parts of the hike, as well as Ninho da Manta viewpoint. After, you must retrace on the same path. After arrival to Pico do Arieiro, you must start PR3 - Vereda do Burro trail from Pico do Arieiro to Parque Ecológico - mostly flat and descending orientation for 7.3km. Pico Ruivo part of the trail are not accessible, due to destruction.

Hike Information:

- Duration (hike): 5 hours

- Max./Min. Altitude: 1818 m / 500m

- Distance: 10 km (PR1 + PR3 trails)

- Starting point: Pico do Arieiro

- Finishing point: Ecological Park of Funchal