Ecotourism is the main reason people come to Madeira: laurel and eucalyptus forests, amazing levadas, waterfalls, lakes, and, of course, mountains. Hiking between the peaks of Areiro and Ruivo is an activity for strong and adventurous tourists who are ready to go through difficulties for a real walk above the clouds. The mountains in Madeira are old, currently seismically inactive and therefore relatively low. The height of Areiro is 1818 meters, Ruivo is 1861 meters high (the highest point of Madeira). The distance between the peaks is about 6 kilometers. But these are mountains, so tourists have to walk on different terrains and at different speeds. It takes at least 6-7 hours to complete the route from Areiro to Ruivo and back. We kindly ask you to be health-conscious. Hiking in the mountains requires courage and endurance. Of course, you can just drive 1500 meters from Funchal to Areiro, climb 300 meters up the comfortable stairs, and walk on the mountain top, admiring the velvet mountains and the haze below. But those who are not looking for easy ways can get a real adventure!

There are two routes from Areiro to Ruivo: the first one is longer and more difficult, the second one is shorter and easier, but it also includes tunnels, that you will literally have to crawl through, and a phone flashlight won't help here. It is necessary to take real camping lights, water, sunscreen, and warm clothes, as sometimes the temperature high in the mountains is lower by 20 degrees than at their foot. It is necessary to start the route no later than 8 am: haze and fog may appear at noon, it gets dark early. And then who knows what surprises may arise along the way. The trail is solid but constantly going downhill and uphill (the total height difference is 500 meters), although the peaks have almost the same height. The start of the route is deceptively easy. But most travelers return after the second observation deck: they are afraid of the old steps, almost vertical stairs, and tunnels that start right behind the observation deck. However, even part of the way is enough to see the landscapes of unearthly beauty, generously offered by Madeira. And if you forgo your hotel breakfast and come to Areiro at 7 am, you will meet the dawn, perhaps the most beautiful in your life.