Trekking: Pico do Castelo – Pico do Facho

Pick-up at the hotel going towards Pico Castelo Viewpoint. We begin the walk by climbing Pico do Castelo which is 437 metres above sea-level, through a foot-path built in most of the journey with basalt stones and same steps. During the walk we can observe same of endemics plants like the Dragon Tree, Heather, Juniper-tree, and others planted recently. Pico Castelo it’s the only green mountain of the island started the reforestation at 1912 with Aleppo Pines Trees, Lebanon Cedars and others species. In this mountain we can also observe same local birds and others that only come here to nidify. From the top of this peak the view is particularly good for observing the relief of the island with the two volcanic formations at each end separated by the lower plain. We go down through the back trail and reach the walk path that goes around the highest peak of the Island, Pico do Facho which is 517m above sea-level, that we can enjoy a beautiful 360º panoramic view of the Island. This high point was advantageous, as it was a good observation post, on the terrible days, when pirates plundered the archipelago. When the pirate flag was seen, a huge bonfire was lit that could be seen from Ponta de São Lourenço, the Eastern tip of Madeira Island, successive fires were set on fire on the peaks, serve to warn Funchal of Pirate attacks, giving a few hours to prepare. Return to the hotel.

Duration: approx. 4 h, distance:  7,8 km, difficulty level: medium. Recommended comfortable outfit, trekking shoes and bottle of water.