{"id":58305,"date":"2026-03-04T12:18:39","date_gmt":"2026-03-04T09:18:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/top-10-madeira\/"},"modified":"2026-03-30T14:39:06","modified_gmt":"2026-03-30T11:39:06","slug":"top-10-madeira","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/top-10-madeira\/","title":{"rendered":"TOP-10 in Madeira – for visit for the first time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Madeira<\/strong> is a place where nature takes center stage. If you are looking for architectural gems or historical landmarks \u2013 this is not the place for you. You should come to Madeira for hiking, incredible views from viewpoints, beautiful and often accessible waterfalls, and the ocean expanse. All of this is plentiful here for several trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But Madeira is not only about breathtaking landscapes. When planning a trip to this island, prepare for a full-fledged journey that consists of many different moments. It\u2019s not only drives between viewpoints, but also time to watch the ocean waves, sipping the local liqueur poncha<\/strong> with residents in a mountain village tavern or riding wicker sledges down the steep streets of Monte<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ten years ago, it was considered that Madeira was a place only for retirees or those who like a quiet holiday. In fact, that’s not true at all. Of course, it’s peaceful here if you don’t want to go up the mountains or drive around the island. But if you are seeking adventure, long impressive hikes, trips along wild ocean coasts, colorful streets or thrilling canyoning \u2013 Madeira will definitely suit you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If this is your first trip to Madeira<\/strong> \u2013 then I recommend exactly this selection of places you must see to fall in love with this island forever!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Recommended to read: Madeira \u2013 7 Day Itinerary<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

1. Hiking to Pico do Arieiro<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"TOP-10<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

I really love hiking (this is easy to understand if you read about my hikes under the tag Walking<\/strong><\/a>). So my list started with a place I really wanted to see during my trip to Madeira. The plan was to walk the most beautiful trail in Madeira \u2013 the hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo<\/strong>. It is considered the most exciting trail on Madeira. This is a high-altitude journey in the very heart of the island, through impressive ridges, jagged rock formations and breathtaking landscapes that captivate you the entire way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But in 2024, a huge fire occurred in the mountains and this trail suffered greatly. It was closed, and for the entire year 2025 tourists did not walk it \u2013 myself included.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So as an alternative, I advise you first to go to Pico do Arieiro<\/strong> and walk the first 1.5 km of the PR1<\/strong> route that are open there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And after that, move to the starting point of PR1.2 route, which leads to the highest peak of the island \u2013 Pico Ruivo<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"TOP-10<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

To find out if the PR1<\/strong> route from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo<\/strong> is open, check the official Madeira website \u2013 it always has up-to-date information about open trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The full route offers an exciting challenge \u2013 it’s about 10 km one way, which consists of steep ascents, descents, and elevation changes. Along the trail, you will encounter rare alpine flora and fauna. This is the perfect adventure for determined hikers, photographers, and nature lovers who want to see the island from its most dramatic viewpoint. Reaching the summit of Pico Ruivo is truly unforgettable and absolutely worth the effort!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get to the PR1<\/strong> trail:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n