We could not leave Madeira without hiking between the two largest peaks on the island. Again, we were blessed with fantastic views. The weather, being above the cloud base was hot......hotter than the hinges of hell!
From the observatory at Arieiro the start of the path is well made. Ruivo in the distance, right of picture.
After quite a steep descent the path levels out, sort of, to be rewarded with amazing views.
We chose the short route out, which around Pico Gato heads north through a couple of tunnels, fighting off hords of goblins and such vile creatures that blocked our way.
A long steady ascent to Ruivo, evidence of the recent fire still visible.
Finally, the peak, with more glorious vista`s. Looking north east over Teixeira,
A government/forestry house just below the summit of Pico Ruivo, the "Red Peak" is the islands highest point at 1862m.
Pico Ruivo is a junction for a number of cross island trails. Next time maybe! We had to get back across to Arieiro.
Evidence of a massive landslide that blocked the route back.
We decided to take the longer route back across, luckily the path was waymarked, probably by Arnie Saccnuson on his "Journey to the center of the Earth".
This route probably adds around an hour to hike back to Arieiro, and luckily for us we start the steep ascent in the baking heat. The entrance to The Mines of Moria cut into the rock above the path, definitely orcs in there!
The final few metres back up the well made path to the start point and a well earned ice cream.
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