Hiking & Trails

The original guide highlights the promenade at Calhau das Achadas da Cruz. Access options include the cable car and walking paths, but a visit to the seafront is different from a descent on foot. Confirm access and return arrangements before choosing your visit.

This recommendation from the original guide is a viewpoint visit rather than a long mountain hike. Check the official approach and local conditions, stay on the designated path and view the waterfall from the established viewing area.

Kept from the original page as a coastal stop, not a trail. Seixal has different pool areas, so check the exact location and current admission and supervision arrangements. The old description of universally free access and calm water is not reliable. Follow local signs and avoid exposed areas when the sea is rough.

Beginning near ER 105 at Rabaçal, the route follows the levada towards its source at Ribeira do Lajeado. The published route is 3.5 km each way, or 7 km out and back. The original guide highlights the Rabaçal and Ribeira da Janela scenery and the surrounding Laurissilva. Confirm the permitted route and access before walking.

The official PR 13 runs from the Assobiadores area of Paúl da Serra to Fanal and is listed as 10.8 km, with moderate difficulty. This is different from the old page’s 19.5-km round-trip description. Plan transport around the actual start and finish; a short visit to the Fanal trees is not the same as completing PR 13.

Starting in the Queimadas area, this route is known for narrow sections, exposed terrain and dark tunnels. Carry a headlamp and choose a route suited to your fitness and comfort with heights. The official description can include an extension towards Caldeirão do Inferno: confirm the exact section, distance and restrictions before planning your day.

PR 6 leads towards the 25 Fontes lagoon and its many springs; PR 6.1 leads to the Risco waterfall viewpoint. They share the Rabaçal area but have separate route descriptions and access arrangements. Combining them adds walking and climbing: do not treat the pair as a universally easy short walk. Allow time for steps, your return and any official route-direction instructions.

In the Caniçal area of Machico, the peninsula has low vegetation and little natural shade. The PR 8 route follows undulating coastal terrain with views of both sides of the island. Prepare for sun and wind, carry water and follow any signed diversions. Check the official route length and current access for your intended walk.

For clarity, this card refers to PR 1.2 from Achada do Teixeira, listed as 2.8 km each way. It is not the longer approach from Ilha mentioned in the old page. Different routes reach the Pico Ruivo area; make sure your planned start point, return and booking match the route you intend to use.

Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo are different peaks. The PR 1 connection passes through exposed and steep terrain. The official page distinguishes a shorter return section from a full connection that has specific direction and exit arrangements. Do not assume the full route can be walked out and back; confirm the current rules and organise onward transport.

A sunrise viewpoint visit and a full mountain hike are different plans. Early starts can mean darkness, cold, poor visibility and strong wind. Use only permitted access, check the forecast and restrictions, and consider a qualified local guide if you are unfamiliar with mountain conditions. This photograph is not an assurance that a sunrise hike is available or suitable.