If you’re looking for a rewarding adventure with 360° panoramic views, peaceful trails, and a serious sense of accomplishment, Pico Grande (1,654m) might be your next favorite hike on Madeira. Rising proudly between the famous peaks of Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, this summit offers two very different ways to reach the top—depending on what kind of challenge you’re after.
Please note: This hike is recommended only for those who are physically fit and experienced with mountain or levada trails. If you’re unfamiliar with the area or unsure about your abilities, it’s best to go with a local guide. Always check the current trail conditions and weather before starting, and never underestimate Madeira’s changing terrain and climate.
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Trail Option 1: From Boca da Corrida (via PR12)
- Distance: ~10 km round-trip
- Elevation gain: ~700 meters
- Difficulty: challenging
- Trail type: PR12 + Pico Grande summit trail
This route starts at Boca da Corrida viewpoint, a scenic spot that offers instant mountain magic. The trail begins along PR12, a relatively flat and wide path that winds between mountain ridges. On one side, you’ll have sweeping views into the Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras); on the other, you’ll see as far as Encumeada. After about 3.5 km, you leave PR12 and start the real climb.
From this junction, the path gets steeper, narrower, and more rugged, but the views get even better. The final push to the summit involves a bit of scrambling, and the last section leads you up to Pico Grande’s signature rock cap. This is a fantastic route if you’re looking for diverse views, manageable elevation, and a sense of adventure.
Trail Option 2: From Curral das Freiras (aka the Vertical KM)
- Distance: ~8 km round-trip
- Elevation gain: ~1,000 meters
- Difficulty: Challenging
This is Madeira’s Vertical Kilometer: a demanding climb that gains 1,000 meters of elevation in just 4 km. Starting in Curral das Freiras, the trail ascends steadily and steeply along a narrow path that cuts straight up the valley wall. Start near the restaurant O Lagar and follow the road up. It will lead to the trail head to Pico Grande.
The views are more focused here—you’ll look back into the Nun’s Valley the entire time—but the reward at the summit is the same: incredible 360° views of Madeira’s central mountain range, all the way to Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, and both sides of the island. This is the option for anyone chasing a physical challenge and an epic payoff.
Highlights of Pico Grande
- Unmatched views: On clear days, you can see Pico Ruivo, Pico do Arieiro, Paul da Serra, Curral das Freiras, Encumeada, and even the ocean on both coasts.
- Peace and quiet: Due to the difficulty, these trails are often less crowded.
- 360° summit: The final climb leads to a unique boulder-like summit with full panoramic views—definitely one of the best summit experiences on Madeira.
What to Know Before You Go
- Both trails are exposed: Bring sun protection, especially since many areas were affected by the 2024 wildfires and now lack tree cover.
- Pack smart: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Scrambling required: The final summit push includes some scrambling – be prepared with proper footwear. Hiking experience is advised before tackling this trail.
- Trail confusion: The trails are generally easy to follow, but the intersection at the top plateau where both routes merge can be confusing. At this junction:
- One path of PR12 continues toward Câmara de Lobos to Boca da Corrida
- The other section of PR12 leads down to Encumeada (currently closed due to wildfire damage)
- A third trail descends to Curral das Freiras
- The trail to Pico Grande is a narrow and slightly hidden path between the trees, heading upward from this junction. Keep an eye out here, as many hikers miss the turn.
Parking:
- Boca da Corrida has limited parking, but you can park along the road.
- Curral das Freiras has no official lot, but street parking is generally available near Restaurante O Lagar.
Nearby Tips & Stops
- After the Curral das Freiras hike: Grab espetada and poncha at Restaurante O Lagar. On your way out, stop at the Eira do Serrado viewpoint for a stunning perspective of the peak you just climbed.
- After the Boca da Corrida route: Head down to Câmara de Lobos to unwind with a well-earned poncha in the town where it all began.
Whether you go for the scenic ridge walk from Boca da Corrida or tackle the beastly climb from Curral das Freiras, Pico Grande is one of Madeira’s most rewarding hikes. It’s rugged, wild, and refreshingly untamed. And once you’re standing on that summit, taking in the full island panorama, you’ll understand why it’s worth every step.
Want even more tips for hiking and exploring Madeira? Grab my Ultimate Madeira Travel Guide—a beautifully designed PDF with all my favorite hikes, food stops, and hidden gems across the island.
And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram at @your_madeira for more adventures, behind-the-scenes, and daily inspiration from this magical island!
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