Pico Arieiro - Pico das Torres - Pico Ruivo (and way back), Madeira / Ribeiro Frio

Pico Arieiro - Pico das Torres - Pico Ruivo (and way back).

- the most difficult trail in Madeira. It's because it has more than one mountain climbing, and not the hardest one. More difficult climbing is in Pico Grande. All the way is very well marked and prepared: stairs, no loose rocks, no slippery ground (on the contrary of Pico Grande with not such a good conditions).

- the most beautiful trail in Portugal, including Continental Portugal and other island Azores.

- best to start is in Pico Arieiro because of very easy access and a lot of free parking places. We parked in the parking down the road. You have a 800m hike to start the trail, which was added in this trail record.

- At 1852m Pico das Torres is the second highest of Madeira's mountains, only surpassed by Pico Ruivo (1861m). It's between Pico Ruivo and Arieiro. Yet, while the latter is somewhat of an anticlimax, Pico das Torres is easily the most impressive mountain in a small but very rugged central range of the island.

- This is a mountain trail with a lot of elevation changes, so be prepared. However, the effort required is compensated for by the extraordinary views along the way. Avoid this trail if you are afraid of heights.

- Once at Pico Ruivo, you can relax, have a snack or, visit the shelter. Finally, don't forget to go to the top of the peak and enjoy the scenery and the breathtaking views of the peaks and villages. On sunny days, you can get a 360-degree view of the island with its main points: Curral das Freiras, Porto Santo, Desertas, Ponta de São Lourenço, and others.

- When you read "crowded trail" from a lot of comments, people mean it. It's bad, really, really bad. But it's the #1 trail in Madeira, so you have to do it. Once you accept the fact that on this trail, you won't be one with the nature things get better.

- Best to start in the morning to see the sunrise and not yet overcrowded area.

- Make sure you check the mountain forecast that it is clear or this walk isn't worth doing.

- If you are able to do the walk only one way, carrying on for a short easy walk to Achado do Teixeira, and arrange a taxi transfer back to your car.