Achada do Teixeira
Achada do Teixeira: The accessible gateway to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak, offering stunning cloud-level hikes and breathtaking panoramic views...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the sunset glow
Achada do Teixeira
Best Time
Catch the sunset glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Achada do Teixeira: The accessible gateway to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak, offering stunning cloud-level hikes and breathtaking panoramic views.
"The best view of Madeira, in my opinion much better than Pico do Arieiro!"
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Ample free parking at Achada do Teixeira, even in the afternoon. Facilities like restrooms are available.
🔦 Headtorch for Sunset/Sunrise
Essential for returning safely after dark if hiking for sunset or sunrise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pico Ruivo Summit
From Achada do Teixeira (PR1.2 trail)
Reach Madeira's highest point (1,862m) via a scenic, well-marked trail. Above the clouds, the panoramic views are breathtaking.
The 'Stairway to Heaven'
PR1.2 trail
An iconic, winding stone staircase leading towards Pico Ruivo, offering dramatic photo opportunities above the clouds.
Above the Clouds Experience
Pico Ruivo
Often, you'll find yourself hiking and standing above a sea of clouds, creating an ethereal and unforgettable landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quickest Route to Pico Ruivo
Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Ample free parking at Achada do Teixeira, even in the afternoon. Facilities like restrooms are available.
🔦 Headtorch for Sunset/Sunrise
Essential for returning safely after dark if hiking for sunset or sunrise.
☁️ Fog Can Be Magical
Don't be discouraged by fog; it often clears, revealing stunning views, or creates dramatic, moody landscapes.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trail is well-maintained but can be steep in parts, especially the final ascent to the summit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Ample free parking at Achada do Teixeira, even in the afternoon. Facilities like restrooms are available.
🔦 Headtorch for Sunset/Sunrise
Essential for returning safely after dark if hiking for sunset or sunrise.
☁️ Fog Can Be Magical
Don't be discouraged by fog; it often clears, revealing stunning views, or creates dramatic, moody landscapes.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trail is well-maintained but can be steep in parts, especially the final ascent to the summit.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Even on cloudy days, the sun at altitude can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
While there's a cafe at the start and a shelter near the summit, it's wise to carry your own provisions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Achada do Teixeira as the easiest and most scenic starting point for Pico Ruivo, often finding themselves above the clouds. The well-maintained trail, ample free parking, and available facilities are frequently praised. While the hike is moderate, the final ascent can be steep, and clear weather is crucial for the best views.
"Great place to start the Pico Ruivo trail, easy parking, cafe and restrooms, and the trail itself is an easier, safer hike (compared to other routes in Madeira Island), with moderate cliffs and no bridges. There is a mountain shelter/ 2,5km up the trail from where another 500m takes you to the summit."
Sérgio Cabral
"This parking is a great starting point to the Pico Ruivo, the best view of Madeira- in my opinion much better than Pico do Arieiro! We started from here as the PR1 between the Picos is currently closed. The parking is already above the clouds and free of charge. There were enough free spaces when we came in the afternoon. There is a restaurant as well, where you can use the bathroom before starting the hike. It took us around an hour to the peak. The way was mostly moderate, only towards the end it got steeper. The path was in a great condition, easy to walk with lovely views. This hike and the view from the top was the highlight of our trip! Highly recommended!
Tip: Bring sun protection 😎"
Annalina Lange
"Nice viewpoint aswell as the start of the hike to Pico do Ruivo. Huge parking lot, we parked there for the sunset hike. You should arrive around 19:00 to catch the sunset in september ."
Olasz Laszlo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Achada do Teixeira is accessible by car, with a large, free parking lot available. Taxis can also be hired, though this is less common and more expensive. Public bus services to Achada do Teixeira are very limited, making a car or organized tour the most practical options for reaching this starting point for Pico Ruivo.
Public transport options to Achada do Teixeira are scarce. While some bus routes might pass nearby, direct and frequent service is unlikely. Renting a car or booking a taxi service are generally recommended for easier access.
Yes, driving is the most common way to reach Achada do Teixeira. The roads are generally well-maintained, and there is a substantial parking area at the trailhead for Pico Ruivo.
Achada do Teixeira is approximately a 1-hour drive from Funchal, covering around 50-60 kilometers depending on the route taken.
While taxis can drop you off at Achada do Teixeira, finding one readily available for a return trip might be challenging. It's advisable to pre-book a taxi if you plan to rely on this service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to access Achada do Teixeira or the trailhead for Pico Ruivo. The parking is free, and the hike itself is open to the public.
Achada do Teixeira is an outdoor location and is accessible 24/7. However, for safety and the best experience, hiking during daylight hours or for sunrise/sunset is recommended.
There is no entrance fee for the hike from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo. The trail is part of the natural landscape and is freely accessible.
No permits are required for the hike from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo. It's a public trail managed by local authorities.
Hiking Pico Ruivo at night is possible, especially for sunrise or sunset, but it requires a headtorch and caution. It's not officially restricted, but safety is paramount.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo (PR1.2) is considered moderate. It's a 5.6km round trip with about 344m of elevation gain, taking around 1.5 hours. The path is well-maintained, though the final ascent to the summit can be steep.
The hike from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo typically takes about 1.5 hours round trip, including time for photos. Some sources suggest 30-45 minutes one way to the summit.
The views from Pico Ruivo are spectacular, often described as being above the clouds. You can see panoramic vistas of Madeira's mountainous interior, and on clear days, even the neighboring island of Porto Santo.
Yes, Achada do Teixeira has a parking area, a cafe, and restrooms. There's also a mountain shelter (Casa Abrigo) near the summit with toilets and refreshments.
The PR1.2 trail from Achada do Teixeira is generally considered safe, with moderate cliffs and no bridges. It's well-maintained and less exposed than some other Madeira hikes. However, always exercise caution, especially in adverse weather.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography. However, the 'above the clouds' phenomenon can occur at any time of day, making it a great subject for photos.
Expect stunning landscape shots, including dramatic cloud inversions, panoramic mountain views, and the iconic 'Stairway to Heaven' trail. Drone photography is also popular here. 
The entire trail offers photo opportunities, but the 'Stairway to Heaven' section and the summit itself are prime spots. The views from the parking area can also be impressive if you're above the clouds.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. If you plan for sunrise/sunset, a tripod can be useful. A drone can capture unique aerial perspectives.
Yes, fog can create very atmospheric and moody photos, adding a unique character to your shots. It often adds to the 'above the clouds' mystique.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as kids can get hungry and thirsty quickly. Consider the time of day to avoid the harshest sun or extreme cold. The novelty of being 'above the clouds' is often a huge hit with younger adventurers, making it a memorable outing. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for the terrain.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Utilize the free parking. Bring a packed lunch and water bottles to refill. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if you want to avoid crowds and potentially have a more serene experience without extra cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography tips: Aim for golden hours for the best light. Be prepared for fog, which can create stunning atmospheric shots. A wide-angle lens is recommended for capturing the vast mountain vistas. Consider a drone for unique aerial perspectives, but be mindful of regulations and safety.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The PR1.2 Trail: Your Gateway to Pico Ruivo
Along the way, you'll encounter breathtaking views, and it's common to find yourself hiking above a blanket of clouds, creating an otherworldly experience. There's a mountain shelter, 'Casa Abrigo,' located just before the final push to the summit, offering restrooms and refreshments. This makes the hike more comfortable and allows for a brief respite before the last steep section.
Many visitors choose this route for its relative ease and the guarantee of reaching the summit without the more challenging sections of the PR1 trail. It's a fantastic option for those who want to experience Madeira's highest point without committing to a full-day trek. Remember to check the weather forecast, as clear conditions significantly enhance the panoramic views from the top.
Chasing Sunrises and Sunsets Above the Clouds
It's crucial to be prepared for these excursions. A headtorch is essential for navigating the trail in the dark, especially on your return journey after sunset. While the trail is well-marked, visibility can be reduced in low light. The temperature can also drop significantly at this altitude, so bringing layers of warm clothing is highly recommended.
While the goal is often clear skies for the perfect shot, even foggy conditions can be incredibly dramatic and photogenic. The interplay of light, mist, and the rugged mountain landscape creates unique photographic opportunities. Planning your visit around the weather forecast can increase your chances of witnessing the iconic 'above the clouds' phenomenon.
Practicalities: Parking, Facilities, and What to Bring
Beyond parking, basic facilities are available. You'll find a cafe at the start of the trail where you can grab a coffee or a snack, and restrooms are also on-site (sometimes for a small fee). Near the summit of Pico Ruivo, there's a mountain shelter, 'Casa Abrigo,' which also provides toilets and refreshments, offering a welcome break point.
When packing for your hike, essentials include sturdy hiking shoes, water, and snacks. Given the altitude, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is vital, even on cloudy days. For sunrise or sunset hikes, a headtorch and warm layers are non-negotiable. The weather can change rapidly, so being prepared for various conditions is key to a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
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