If you love hiking and are eager to travel, here’s an idea for adventurous souls. This trail is often described as one of the most spectacular hikes in Europe; it connects the island’s highest peaks and will reopen at the end of the month (on April 25, according to euronews)…
After the severe damage caused by fire and subsequent landslides, the trail underwent extensive safety work.
The PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: the wild soul of Madeira
After months of total closure to monitor rock instability and rebuild the destroyed handrails, the trail has been restored. Madeira’s forestry authorities (IFCN) have worked hard to clear debris and stabilize the most exposed sections.
Admission costs approximately 11 euros.
Why is it called “Legendary”?
The PR1 is a sensory experience that traverses a unique ecosystem. The trail offers incredible views, but it’s important to wear clothing and shoes suitable for the hike; you’ll also need a flashlight.
One of the most iconic spots is the steep metal and stone climb that seems to ascend directly into the sky. When the clouds are low, you’ll literally be walking above a sea of white cotton wool.
It is the only place in the world where the Madeira Petrel, one of the rarest seabirds on the planet, nests. Along the trail, you’ll also see high-altitude vegetation that withstands lashing winds and temperatures that can drop close to freezing.
Please note: Before setting out, we recommend visiting the official website visitmadeira.com, as the trail may be closed at short notice in the event of a weather alert (strong winds or heavy rain) due to the high risk of falling rocks.
How to get there from Rome
There are no direct flights from Rome to Madeira. Here’s how long the journey takes.
The direct flight from Rome Fiumicino to Lisbon takes an average of about 3 hours and 15 minutes. TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair offer the most frequent connections. The flight from Lisbon to Funchal Airport (Madeira) then takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. The total journey from Rome to Madeira, including the layover in Lisbon, takes about 7–8 hours.
