The long-awaited PR1 Areeiro opening is now official. Madeira’s most famous hiking route, the Vereda do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trail, will reopen in April 2026.
The announcement came from Eduardo Jesus, Madeira’s Regional Secretary for Tourism, Environment, and Culture. The trail will reopen during the 17th edition of the MIUT – Madeira Island Ultra Trail, on April 25–26, 2026.
The IFCN (Institute for Forests and Nature Conservation) is coordinating this reopening as part of a wider recovery plan for the Central Mountain Massif. The team focuses on ensuring safety and protecting Madeira’s fragile mountain ecosystems.
Why the PR1 Areeiro Opening Is Important
The PR1 Areeiro opening represents more than just access to a trail. It symbolises the recovery of Madeira’s highest peaks after the 2024 wildfires.
Authorities want hikers to enjoy the route responsibly. Therefore, access will remain controlled, and capacity limits may apply after the reopening.
Eduardo Jesus explained that the return must combine two values: enjoying nature and preserving it. He said the controlled reopening “is a sign of confidence, but also of responsibility.”
Restoration Work Before the PR1 Areeiro Opening
The IFCN will soon begin the final phase of restoration needed for the reopening. A new partnership between the IFCN and the Clube de Montanha do Funchal will help manage trail cleaning and maintenance.
The restoration teams will improve more than 17 kilometres of trails. Works include debris removal, vegetation cutting, step rebuilding, and the installation of new safety railings. All actions will follow IFCN technical supervision.
“These efforts show that sport and nature can move together,” said Eduardo Jesus. “MIUT promotes Madeira’s natural heritage while helping its recovery.”
MIUT 2026 and the PR1 Areeiro Opening
The PR1 Areeiro opening will take place during MIUT 2026, which returns to its original mountain route: Areeiro, Pico Ruivo, Pico Jorge, and Pico Grande.
Organisers expect this edition to be the most challenging ever. They will host five races – MIUT Legend, Marathon, Advanced, Discover, and Starter – and limit participants in each to ensure safety and sustainability.
The event design came after months of work between the IFCN and MIUT organisers, focusing on safety, authenticity, and conservation.
Responsible Hiking After the PR1 Areeiro Opening
In October 2025, the Regional Government introduced a new Guide to Good Practices for visitors to the Central Mountain Massif. It encourages responsible behaviour and respect for sensitive environments.
“The mountain is living heritage that demands respect,” said Eduardo Jesus. “These are not restrictions, but guarantees for balanced enjoyment.”
He also noted that the PR1 Areeiro opening during MIUT 2026 is a symbol of renewal — a time when nature and the local community reconnect after recovery.
What Hikers Can Expect
Once the PR1 Areeiro – Pico Ruivo trail reopens, hikers will again cross Madeira’s highest peaks with improved safety and maintenance. Access may still be limited at first, but long-term recovery will ensure a sustainable future for the trail.
Visitors should follow official IFCN updates and check conditions before hiking. Respecting these guidelines helps protect the mountain and guarantees a safe experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the PR1 Areeiro Opening
Is PR1 Areeiro open?
Not yet. The PR1 Areeiro opening is scheduled for April 2026, during the Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT). Until then, the trail remains closed for restoration and safety work.
When will the PR1 Areeiro trail reopen?
The PR1 Areeiro – Pico Ruivo trail will reopen in April 2026. The reopening will coincide with MIUT 2026, after nearly two years of closure due to the 2024 wildfires.
Why is PR1 Areeiro closed?
It was closed following the 2024 wildfires that damaged parts of the Central Mountain Massif. Authorities are restoring and stabilising the terrain to guarantee a safe and sustainable PR1 Areeiro opening.
Can you hike PR1 Areeiro now?
No. The trail is currently closed to the public. Hikers can use alternative routes like Vereda dos Balcões or Levada do Caldeirão Verde until the PR1 Areeiro opening in 2026.
Will there be limits after the PR1 Areeiro opening?
Yes. Access will likely be controlled after reopening to protect the environment and ensure safety. The IFCN may limit daily capacity based on weather and trail conditions.
Final Thoughts
The PR1 Areeiro opening in April 2026 marks the comeback of Madeira’s most iconic trail. It stands for resilience, restoration, and responsible tourism.
Thanks to teamwork between government and environmental organisations, hikers will soon enjoy again the breathtaking journey between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo, safely and sustainably.
For official updates, visit the IFCN Madeira website.
For related information, see our guides on Hiking Madeira.
SOURCE: Diário de Notícias da Madeira
