PR 1 - Vereda do Areeiro - Vereda Oeste (túneis)

PR1 - Vereda do Areeiro is a trail that links three iconic high points of Madeira, being the island's highest peaks. It starts at Pico do Areeiro (1818 m), passes Pico das Torres (1851 m) and ends at Pico Ruivo (1862 m).
The Vereda do Areeiro is a 7 km route of moderate difficulty, taking about 3h30, that crosses part of the Maciço Montanhoso Central (an area included in the Natura 2000 Network). During the walk, which begins near the Pico do Areeiro viewpoint, you will pass through tunnels cut into the volcanic tuffs — once used as shelter for livestock and shepherds — and navigate steep slopes.
To reach Pico Ruivo you must go around Pico das Torres via a steep staircase carved into the rock. However, the biggest challenge of the Vereda do Areeiro is saved for the end: the climb up to the Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo. Finally, you will arrive at a rock formation popularly known as the “Homem em pé” (standing man), where you will find the path with access to Achada do Teixeira, which allows continuation of the hike.
On this route, dominated by high-altitude heather (urzal), you may encounter some bird species and subspecies restricted to Macaronesia or the archipelago.
The eastern Vereda (via Pico das Torres) is closed.