Pico Ruivo

Pico Ruivo
Highest point
Elevation1,861 m (6,106 ft)[1]
Prominence1,861 m (6,106 ft)[1]
ListingUltra
Coordinates32°45′31″N 16°56′32″W / 32.75861°N 16.94222°W / 32.75861; -16.94222[1]
Geography
Pico Ruivo is located in Madeira
Pico Ruivo
Pico Ruivo
Location of Pico Ruivo in Madeira
LocationMadeira
Climbing
Easiest routeFrom Achada do Teixeira

Pico Ruivo (European Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈpiku ˈʁujvu]) is the highest peak on Madeira Island and the third highest in Portugal, standing at 1,861 metres (6,106 ft) in the Santana municipality.[1][2] Accessible only by foot, it can be reached from either Pico do Areeiro or via a shorter, easier trail from Achada do Teixeira. The summit provides panoramic views of the island, from the green mountains surrounding Curral das Freiras to the Ribeira Grande and São Jorge valleys. On days with clear visibility, Pico Ruivo also offers sweeping views of Porto Santo Island and the Desertas Islands.[2]

While the breathtaking vistas are a highlight, the unpredictable weather can make the hike challenging and at times dangerous.[citation needed] North of the peak, a shelter, renovated in 2019, offers essential amenities such as running water, restrooms, and meal services for hikers.[3]

As the highest point in the archipelago, Pico Ruivo is primarily surrounded by high-altitude heath. The area is also marked by monumental rock formations, which often rise above the clouds, dominating the landscape. The region is home to several bird species, including the Madeira firecrest, the chaffinch, and the linnet.[2]

  1. ^ a b c d "Europe: Atlantic Islands - Ultra Prominences" Peaklist.org. Retrieved 2012-06-28.
  2. ^ a b c "Pico Ruivo - Visit Madeira | Madeira Islands Tourism Board official website". visitmadeira.com. Retrieved 2024-11-20.
  3. ^ dferreira. "Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo". Pico Ruivo | Casa de Abrigo | Madeira Island (in European Portuguese). Retrieved 2024-11-20.