PR1 Pico Do Arieiro Reopening April 2026 - What Hikers Need to Know
- Izzie Darvill
- Oct 28
- 4 min read
Hiking PR1 Madeira: Updates, Reopening Date & How to Experience the Trail Now
PR1, often called the “Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo” route, is one of Madeira’s most epic ridge hikes. It links Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m) to Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), traversing volcanic tunnels, steep staircases, dramatic ridgeline and the famed Stairway to Heaven steps carved into rock.
Hikers love this route for panoramic views above the clouds, raw exposure and the feeling of walking between two of Madeira’s highest peaks.
Why the Closure & What’s Changing
In 2024, wildfire damage and structural instability forced closure of several segments along PR1, particularly beyond Pedra Rija and through stairway sections.
Currently, only ~1.2 km from Pico do Arieiro to Pedra Rija is officially passable.
Sections past this point, including the Stairway to Heaven and beyond toward Pico Ruivo, remain closed
What’s Reopening in April 2026?
The current expectation from local sources is that the full reopening of PR1 (or significant expanded access) will occur in April 2026.When open, expect full access between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, including repair of tunnels, stairways, and safety features.
Already reopened are three walking trails, including the segment from Pico do Arieiro to Pedra Rija (km 1.2), as confirmed by Madeira’s nature authority (IFCN).
Tips for Hiking PR1Madeira Trail When It Reopens:
Go early (before sunrise) to beat crowds and catch the light
Bring layering - mountain weather changes fast.
Use sturdy hiking shoes and trekking poles (steep stair sections).
Check trail status close to your date - even reopened sections may temporarily close for weather / maintenance.
Book a guided tour - local guides know the latest status and routes. Plus, we can bypass tall the traffic and park closer!
History of the PR1 Trail – Madeira’s Legendary Ridge Walk
The PR1 trail, also known as the Vereda do Areeiro, has been a cornerstone of Madeira hiking for decades. Originally created in the mid-20th century, the trail was designed to connect the island’s two highest peaks, Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m) and Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), allowing locals and visitors alike to traverse the dramatic central mountain range safely.
Over the years, PR1 has become famous not just for its breathtaking scenery but for the engineering feats required to carve paths along sheer cliffs, tunnels, and ridges. The iconic “Stairway to Heaven” section, carved directly into volcanic rock, demonstrates the incredible skill and determination of Madeira’s early trail builders.
Historically, the trail served more than just tourism purposes. It allowed villagers from remote mountain communities to transport goods, connect with neighbors, and reach the highland pastures. Over time, as Madeira became a popular destination for international hikers, PR1 evolved into a world-renowned adventure, attracting photographers, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers.
Today, the trail’s history is preserved in its ancient stone steps, tunnels and trail markers, giving hikers a glimpse of the island’s heritage while they experience one of the most scenic walks in Europe.
Flora & Fauna Along the PR1 Trail
The PR1 trail traverses Madeira's Central Mountain Massif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity. Hikers are immersed in a landscape where endemic species thrive amidst dramatic volcanic terrains.
Endemic Flora
Madeira Laurel Forest (Laurisilva): This ancient forest is a relic from the Tertiary period and is characterized by its dense canopy of evergreen trees, including the Madeira laurel (Laurus novocanariensis) and Madeira holly (Ilex perado). These forests play a crucial role in maintaining the island's unique ecosystem.
Madeira Violet (Viola paradoxa): A rare plant endemic to Madeira, found in moist, shaded areas along the trail.
Madeira Blueberry (Vaccinium padifolium): Commonly found at elevations between 800 and 1,500 meters, this shrub produces edible berries and is often used in local preserves.
Endemic Fauna
Zino's Petrel (Pterodroma madeira): One of Europe's most endangered seabirds, it breeds on inaccessible ledges between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, relying on the surrounding vegetation for nesting sites.
Madeira Firecrest (Regulus ignicapillus madeirensis): A subspecies of the firecrest, this small bird is commonly seen flitting through the laurel forests.
Berthelot's Pipit (Anthus berthelotii madeirensis): Endemic to the Canary Islands and Madeira, this bird is often spotted along the rocky terrains of the trail.
These species are integral to Madeira's natural heritage and the PR1 trail offers a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitats.
Final thoughts & how to book with us
The long-awaited reopening of the PR1 Madeira Trail in April 2026 is exciting news for every hiking enthusiast. But you don’t have to wait to experience Madeira’s breathtaking peaks and ridgelines - there are plenty of stunning alternative routes available right now.
We offer private levada and mountain hikes, including the accessible sections on both sides of the PR1 peaks. You can even book our popular sunrise & hike tour to catch the island waking up above the clouds.
It’s always best to explore with a local expert and our guide Jimmy makes every hike safe, informative and full of laughter. He’s a qualified, first-aid trained mountain guide with deep knowledge of Madeira’s trails, nature and hidden gems.
Let us help you plan a safe, unforgettable hiking adventure - whether it’s partial PR1 access now or the full ridge once it reopens.
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