PR 1 after the 2026 reopening: price, one-way traffic and booking

The standing Friday-to-Sunday restriction was lifted on 26 June 2026. Temporary closures still apply. The IFCN notice for 21 and 22 September 2026 closes Pedra Rija - Pico Ruivo while keeping the two-way Areeiro - Pedra Rija section open. Check the latest notice before hiking.

The full crossing costs €10.50, or €7.00 with a tour operator that has an agreement with IFCN. The shorter option to Miradouro da Pedra Rija and back still costs €4.50 and does not allow you to continue to Pico Ruivo.

Pico do Areeiro - Miradouro da Pedra Rija is two-way: 1.2 km out and 1.2 km back. Beyond Pedra Rija, the trail is one-way towards Pico Ruivo. The full PR 1 is 6.1 km; do not plan to return from Ruivo along the same path.

Your car stays at Areeiro while you finish at Ruivo or Achada do Teixeira. Return logistics: a second car left at the finish, a pre-booked transfer or a taxi. Arrange the ride a day ahead.

PR 1 requires a SIMplifica booking like every trail, and in high season slots sell out several days ahead. Book as soon as you know your date.

PR 1 is never part of multi-day passes; you always pay for it separately. Opening days can be limited, so check the status before travelling: as of summer 2026, confirm with IFCN and SIMplifica. The booking walkthrough is in the guide linked below.

Parking at Pico do Areeiro costs €4 per hour. In season it fills quickly before sunrise.

Without a car: the Horários do Funchal bus runs twice a day, at 06:00 and 13:30 from Funchal.

Bookings are checked by Nature Wardens at the entrance (QR scan) and randomly on the route. Statutory fines range from €250 to €2500 (DLR 24/2022/M).

In September 2025, while PR 1 was closed, the Polícia Florestal fined hikers €750 for ignoring the closure. A closed trail with a valid booking is still closed.