Pico do Arieiro, Madeira, Portugal (with Map & Photos)

Pico do Arieiro, standing at 1,818 meters, is the third-highest peak on Madeira Island and one of its most iconic destinations. Accessible by car, this mountaintop offers dramatic views above the clouds and is famous for its breathtaking sunrises and hiking trails.

Pico do Arieiro Madeira Portugal
Pico do Arieiro Madeira Portugal


Visitors can start their day with a sunrise spectacle, where the morning mist rolls over the peaks and paints the sky in vivid colors. The trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest point, is one of Portugal’s most scenic hikes, winding through tunnels, ridges, and volcanic landscapes.

Even if you're not hiking, the summit viewpoint offers unforgettable panoramas of rugged mountain ranges, deep valleys, and Madeira’s unique flora. In winter, snow can occasionally cover the peaks, adding a magical contrast to the island’s subtropical setting.

Pico do Arieiro is a must-see for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers visiting Madeira, blending altitude adventure with natural beauty in every direction.

  • Highlights:
  • Third-highest peak in Madeira (1,818 m)
  • Epic sunrise and sunset viewpoints
  • Trail to Pico Ruivo: tunnels, ridges, peaks
  • Accessible by car with panoramic views
  • Snow-capped in winter, lush in summer

Pico do Arieiro Map