Madeira’s PR1 Mountain Trail Reopens After Wildfire Damage

Madeira’s PR1 Vereda do Areeiro hiking trail is set to reopen in April 2026 after remaining closed for two years following wildfire damage in 2024. The 7km route links three of the island’s highest peaks and required extensive safety and restoration work. Local authorities confirmed that improvements focused on protecting natural landscapes while allowing visitors to return to one of the most recognised high-altitude walks in the archipelago.

The trail links Pico do Areeiro, Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo and forms part of Madeira’s protected Central Mountain Massif. It starts at the Pico do Areeiro viewpoint and continues along narrow ridges, tunnels carved into volcanic rock and high viewpoints above the clouds. Work on the trail concentrated on repairing sections affected by the 2024 wildfire and preparing the route to reopen with revised safety conditions in place.

Key Details for Visitors

• Trail length: approximately 7 km
• Route links three major mountain peaks
• Access fee set at €10.50
• Regulations introduced in 2026 to manage visitor flow

Officials said the access fee is used to maintain the trail, support nature protection and fund necessary repairs. Rules introduced in 2026 are intended to spread visitor numbers more evenly across the day and reduce pressure on busy walking routes. Residents of Madeira do not pay the fee but must still register in advance. The reopening takes place close to the Madeira Island Ultra Trail event scheduled for 25–26 April 2026.

The reopened trail passes through one of Madeira’s best-known mountain areas, with clear views of volcanic ridges and clouds moving across the Atlantic. The Central Mountain Massif includes natural habitats where species such as the Berthelot’s pipit and plain swift live. Access to the path again also makes it possible to explore inland walking routes that reveal parts of the island less visible from coastal locations.

The reopening of the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro shows efforts to keep well-known hiking routes accessible after wildfire damage while limiting pressure on natural areas. The path has been repaired and made safe, but visitors are expected to follow updated rules when entering protected mountain zones. Limits on the number of visitors and updated entry procedures aim to prevent overcrowding and protect mountain paths from damage over time.