Pico Ruivo from Bocca da Encumeada

Starting point at Bocca da Encumeada (pass). Access is via the road through the island across its width between Sao Vicente and Ribeira Brava in the north to the south.

Red and Yellow markings (route No. 1.3).

(S) From the pass, take the path called "Vereda da Encumeada" which heads south-east. After a few hundred metres the path becomes steeper and then gives way to stone steps leading up a winding path. The road heads north-east and passes near Pico da Encumeada.

(1) The path heads south-east and remains high up by alternating short climbs and short descents. The slope changes to climb Pico do Jorge.

(2) Continue down east to reach Bocca das Torrinhas a pass and a crossroads with a nice view.

(3) Cross the route No. 2 with its north-south orientation (approximately) and go uphill to the north east. Around the 1,500 m elevation mark, the slope becomes more gentle momentarily before again becoming steeper. Veer to the south-east to head round the Pico do Coelho, then continue uphill to the east to the Pico Ruivo.

(4) Turn right (south) to climb in loops to the summit.

(5) The descent is along the same path as on the way out.

The trail is laid out in places: paving or stone steps, cable rails on the sides. Nevertheless, good hiking shoes are essential.

The climate is changeable, it is recommended to start this long hike early. Despite the latitude, warm clothing is recommended.

No water or supplies available on the trail: plan accordingly.

Variants

With two cars, you can park one at Bocca Encumeada (S) and another in Achada do Teixeira in the car park located at the end of the EN-101-5 road from Santana. In this case, after coming down from the summit and arriving at the point (4), instead of retracing your steps to the west, take the east route no. 1.2 to Achada do Teixeira. Allow about 1.5 hours for the walk at least but at least 1 hour to Achado do Teixeira and Bocca Encumeada by car.

Still with two cars, the hike can be walked in the opposite direction (east to west), which significantly reduces the ascent.

Another option (not tested) is to spend a night in the Poussada do Ruivo (shelter), located a few hundred metres east of point (4).

From the summit there is a 360° view of the island of Madeira and the ocean.

On the way, the environment varies greatly: it starts in a wooded environment, the vegetation gradually becomes less dense and, at the first summit, it is essentially a open rock.