Taxi to Achada do Teixeira

Achada do Teixeira is a high-altitude trailhead perched at 1592 meters in Madeira's central mountains. While less famous than Pico do Arieiro, it offers the shortest hiking route to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak, and serves as the essential endpoint for those completing the iconic PR1 mountain traverse. For hikers, this is a critical transport hub. The PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is point-to-point, meaning you need different transport at each end. Achada do Teixeira's remote location makes taxi service essential for anyone wanting to tackle this legendary hike.

Achada do Teixeira is located in the mountains above Santana on Madeira's north side. From Funchal, a taxi takes approximately 50-60 minutes via winding mountain roads. There is no public transport to this remote location. For PR1 hikers: The most common arrangement is for us to drop you at Pico do Arieiro in the morning and pick you up at Achada do Teixeira 4-6 hours later after completing the traverse. We stay in phone contact and can adjust timing based on your progress. For Pico Ruivo direct route: If you just want to summit Madeira's highest peak without the full PR1 traverse, we can take you directly to Achada do Teixeira. The hike to Pico Ruivo is shorter from here (about 2.8km each way, 1 hour up). The trailhead has basic facilities including a small cafe (irregular hours), restrooms, and parking.

Achada do Teixeira itself is a small mountain outpost with spectacular views. At 1592m, you are already above much of Madeira, with the central peaks visible above and valleys dropping away below. PR1.1 to Pico Ruivo: The trail to Madeira's highest summit is well-maintained but steep, climbing about 270 meters over 2.8km. The effort is rewarded with 360-degree panoramas from the 1862m summit. Allow about 1 hour up and 45 minutes down. Homem em Pé ("Standing Man"): Near the trailhead, a distinctive rock formation resembles a human figure standing against the sky - a popular photo spot before or after hiking. PR1 endpoint: Hikers completing the traverse from Pico do Arieiro arrive here after 4-6 hours of spectacular mountain scenery. The trail descends through dramatic landscapes before reaching the parking area - a memorable way to finish one of Europe's great day hikes.