PR 3 — Vereda do Burro
Briefly
A high-altitude mountain trail that descends from the peaks of Pico do Areeiro down to the Ecological Park of Funchal (Montado do Pereiro). Unlike the jagged cliffs of PR1, this route offers wide, open landscapes, volcanic rock formations, and a transition from alpine scrubland to reforestation areas. It is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the high mountains with a steady descent.
Basic information
Start: Pico do Areeiro
End: Montado do Pereiro (Ecological Park)
Distance: Distance: 7.2 km (one way)
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Elevation gain: ~800 m (descent)
Difficulty: Moderate
Entrance: Entrance: €4.50
Parking: Pico do Areeiro (Start) or Montado do Pereiro (Finish)
Best season: All year round (mornings offer the best views above the clouds)
: How to find
The trail starts just below the peak of Pico do Areeiro, near the radar station and the main parking lot.
: Open Pico do Areeiro on Google Maps
The trail ends at the Casa do Burro in the Montado do Pereiro area, within the Funchal Ecological Park.
Important: This is a linear descent. Unless you plan to hike back up (very steep), you should arrange a taxi or have someone pick you up at the Ecological Park.
What you need to bring:
Comfortable hiking boots
Sun protection (the first half is completely exposed)
Windbreaker (it is often very windy at the start)
Water and snacks
Important to know:
Poço da Neve: Near the start, you will pass a large stone “igloo” built in 1813. This was used to store ice and snow, which was then transported by hand down to Funchal for hospitals and hotels.
The Descent: The trail is mostly downhill. While it is not as steep as PR 2, it can be tiring for the knees due to the constant incline.
Views: On clear days, you have spectacular views of the Curral das Freiras valley to the west and the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula to the east.
Flora: You can see the rare Madeira Orchids and the “Pride of Madeira” (Echium candicans) blooming along the path in late spring.
Reservations
Mandatory online booking via the government portal.
: Book: SIMplifica
Similar Trails you might like:
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PR 3.1 — Caminho Real do Monte: A continuation that leads all the way down to the historic Monte area.
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PR 1 — Vereda do Areeiro: If you are already at the start point and want a much more dramatic, cliff-side challenge.
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PR 11 — Vereda dos Balcões: For much easier, flat access to high-altitude views in the same central region.
*Hiked this trail? Share your photos and current conditions in the comments! 