Stairway to Heaven: Pico Do Areeiro in Madeira Island

Madeira Island’s Pico do Areeiro is home to the renowned "Stairway to Heaven" hike, a thrilling 6-hour guided adventure. Trekkers can expect to navigate the challenging PR 3 – Vereda do Burro trail, leading them through captivating landscapes before a steep ascent to the island’s third-highest peak. The payoff? Breathtaking panoramic views that make this an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. But what lies in store along this stairway to the heavens above?

Key Points

• The Stairway to Heaven hike is a 6-hour guided tour on the PR 3 – Vereda do Burro trail, starting from the Funchal Ecological Park in Madeira Island.
• The hike features a series of stops, including the historic Poço da Neve site and the ascent to the third-highest peak, Pico do Areeiro, at 1,818 meters.
• The final leg of the hike, known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers panoramic vistas and a challenging climb for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Transfers from designated hotels in Funchal are provided, and a high fitness level is required, with a mandatory nature maintenance fee of 3€.
• The hike provides an opportunity to explore Madeira’s stunning landscape, cultural heritage, and environmental preservation efforts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Stairway to Heaven Hike

The Stairway to Heaven hike on Madeira Island offers adventurous trekkers a challenging ascent to the stunning Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak on the island.

Beginning at the Funchal Ecological Park, the 6-hour journey includes a guided tour along the PR 3 – Vereda do Burro trail, leading to the historic Poço da Neve site and the 1,818-meter Pico do Areeiro summit.

The final leg, the Stairway to Heaven, is a thrilling, steep climb rewarded with panoramic vistas.

The final leg, the Stairway to Heaven, is a thrilling, steep climb rewarded with panoramic vistas.

While the hike requires a high level of fitness, the breathtaking scenery and sense of accomplishment make it a must-do activity for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Madeira.

Exploring the Pico Do Areeiro Trail

As hikers embark on the Pico do Areeiro trail, they’ll be greeted by a well-maintained path that winds through the stunning Madeira landscape.

The first stop, PR 3 – Vereda do Burro, offers a guided tour and scenic views.

Next, the historic Poço da Neve site provides panoramic vistas.

The main attraction is the ascent to Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak at 1818 meters.

The challenging "Stairway to Heaven" leads to a photo stop at Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramas.

With a high fitness level required, this tour immerses adventurers in Madeira’s natural wonder.

Discovering the Poço Da Neve Historic Site

Along the Pico do Areeiro trail, hikers come across the historic Poço da Neve site, which offers a brief respite from the ascent.

This former snow well served as an important resource for Madeira’s past residents, storing snow year-round to be used for refrigeration and other purposes.

The site features:

1. Scenic vistas overlooking the surrounding valleys and peaks.

2. Interpretive signage providing historical context about the snow well’s significance.

3. A chance to rest and rehydrate before tackling the challenging Stairway to Heaven.

4. A glimpse into Madeira’s unique cultural and environmental heritage.

Ascending to the Third-Highest Peak

After passing the historic Poço da Neve site, hikers commence the challenging ascent to the summit of Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters.

The steep, winding trail tests endurance, with frequent stops to catch one’s breath and admire the stunning vistas.

The winding trail demands endurance, with pauses to catch one’s breath and marvel at the breathtaking panoramas.

As the elevation increases, the landscape transforms, with alpine vegetation and sweeping panoramas of rugged peaks and valleys.

The final push to the top is a true "Stairway to Heaven," with a series of steps offering a thrilling and rewarding climb.

Reaching the summit provides a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring 360-degree views.

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Capturing Panoramic Views at Miradouro Do Ninho Da Manta

What lies ahead after the challenging ascent to Pico do Areeiro’s summit? The Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, a photo stop with panoramic views, awaits.

This scenic vantage point offers:

1. Breathtaking vistas of Madeira’s rugged central mountain range.

2. A glimpse of the island’s lush forests and dramatic coastline.

3. The chance to spot the unique "Ninho da Manta" geological formation.

4. An opportunity to catch your breath and revel in the accomplishment of reaching the third-highest peak.

This 5-minute respite provides a well-deserved reward for the arduous journey, leaving you invigorated to continue the "Stairway to Heaven" experience.

Tackling the Challenging Stairway to Heaven

Following the challenging ascent to Pico do Areeiro’s summit, adventurers will face the final test – the "Stairway to Heaven". This demanding section features a series of steep stone steps, requiring careful footing and concentration. The climb offers unparalleled views, but its difficulty separates the dedicated from the casual.

| Difficulty | Duration | Reward |

|————|———-|——–|

| High | 5 mins | Panoramic vistas from Pico do Areeiro’s 1818m peak |

| Strenuous | Steep Incline | Sense of accomplishment |

| Exposed | Narrow Steps | Sweeping views of Madeira’s interior |

Those up for the challenge will be richly rewarded with a breathtaking panorama atop the island’s third-highest peak.

Transportation and Transfers for the Activity

Guests booking the Pico do Areeiro adventure can expect convenient pickup and transfer services included in the tour.

Guests can enjoy convenient pickup and transfer services when booking the Pico do Areeiro adventure.

The tour provider offers pickup from 43 designated hotels and areas in Funchal, with guests advised to be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

The transfer duration is approximately 1 hour each way, and the scenic drive portion lasts 30 minutes.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup from designated hotels and areas in Funchal

2. 1-hour transfer to and from the activity location

3. 30-minute scenic drive during the transfers

4. Prompt return to the original pickup location after the tour.

Requirements, Recommendations, and Important Considerations

Given the challenging nature of the Pico do Areeiro hike, a high level of fitness is required.

The trail isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with severe health issues or limited mobility.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring food, drinks, sunscreen, jackets, and rain gear.

Smoking, alcohol, and pets aren’t allowed.

A mandatory 3€ nature maintenance fee must be paid in cash to the guide.

The tour may proceed in adverse weather if safe, but cancellations or alternative routes may be necessary.

Guests should be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The Sum Up

The Stairway to Heaven hike at Pico do Areeiro offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. The challenging trek showcases Madeira’s stunning landscapes, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views from the island’s third-highest peak. With historic sites, picturesque lookouts, and a steep ascent, this guided tour provides an exhilarating experience for nature lovers, but it’s important to be prepared for the demanding trail.

You can check availability for your dates here: