Start in the Pico do Areeiro area, descending towards Ribeira das Cales. This is a one-way trail that requires a return plan.
PR 3
Vereda do Burro
Pico do Areeiro - Ribeira das Cales. Highlights: Pico do Areeiro, Ribeira das Cales, high heathlands.
- Distance
- 10,4 km
- Time
- about 3 h 30 min
- Difficulty
- Moderate (est.)
- Fee
- from 4,50 EUR
Decision for today
Good to go
Status and basic weather do not show an obvious blocker. Still check IFCN/SIMplifica before starting.
- Official status: open.
- Pogoda: Pogoda dobra.
Access and parking
Pico do Areeiro
Quick access check
Public transport to Pico do Areeiro is limited; check SIGA and consider a taxi or transfer.
Search in SIGA: Funchal, Poiso, Pico do Areeiro, Monte.
linear trail. Start: Pico do Areeiro. End: Ribeira das Cales.
By car
Pico do Areeiro. Set the start point in maps and check whether parking is available in the morning and afternoon.
Without a car
Search in SIGA: Funchal, Poiso, Pico do Areeiro, Monte.
Return
This is a linear or logistically harder trail. Plan pickup, taxi or two transport legs.
Logistics tip. Confirm current departures, access restrictions and parking with SIGA or locally before heading out.
Trail map
Start point and area
Orientation point
Pico do Areeiro - Ribeira das Cales · start
This is an orientation point, not a full GPS trail.
Parking / access
Pico do Areeiro
Start in the Pico do Areeiro area, descending towards Ribeira das Cales. This is a one-way trail that requires a return plan.
Hike plan
Day plan for this trail
Start
Pico do Areeiro
Start pointHike
10,4 km · about 3 h 30 min · Moderate (est.)
Conditions
Good to go. Status and basic weather do not show an obvious blocker. Still check IFCN/SIMplifica before starting.
Plan B
PR 1.3 - Vereda da Encumeada
Open alternativeChecklists and timing
Before you go
- Check the current IFCN notice for this trail.
- Save the start point and route offline.
- Book and check the fee in SIMplifica.
- Compare weather with IPMA/ProCiv before starting.
- Verify wind and visibility before starting.
- Take extra water, food and a rain layer.
Gear
Offline map / saved start
Signal in mountains and valleys can be unstable.
Water and snacks
A longer trail requires more supplies.
Windproof layer
On ridges, cliffs and in gusts, wind chills quickly.
Power bank
A longer day outside increases battery use for maps and photos.
Daylight
Estimated time: about 3 h 30 min. Latest reasonable start: 16:46 (60 min buffer before dark).
Data confidence
What is reliable and what to check
Trail status
IFCN live
Last read: 16/07/2026, 21:09.
Difficulty
researched
Do not treat this as an official fact. It is planning guidance.
Map point
start
This is an orientation point, not a full GPS trail.
Access
check
Checked: 14/05/2026, 01:00. Confirm schedules in SIGA.
Weather now
Open-Meteo
Updated: 16/07/2026, 21:09. Refresh about every 1h.
Trail FAQ
Common questions before you go
Is the trail currently available?
Open. Trail status and weather can change quickly. Before you go, check IFCN, SIMplifica, IPMA/ProCiv and local signage.
How long does the hike take?
Roughly 3 h 30 min at a calm pace without longer breaks. Add time for photos and rest.
How much does entry cost?
Entry costs 4,50 € for visitors over 12. Pay online in SIMplifica and keep the confirmation for checks.
Do I need to book or pay?
This trail requires booking or entry verification in SIMplifica before you start.
Where do I park and how do I get there?
Pico do Areeiro. Public transport to Pico do Areeiro is limited; check SIGA and consider a taxi or transfer.
Is this a good trail with a dog?
check dog rules. May be possible with a dog, but check current rules, weather and passages.
Trail profile
Who it suits and what to watch
Best for
Scenic mountain trail, good in stable weather.
With dog
check dog rules
May be possible with a dog, but check current rules, weather and passages.
Risks
- Avoid in strong wind, low visibility or icy ridge conditions.