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- Levada do Pico Castelo 4.4 Directions
- Vereda do Pico do Castelo 4.6 Directions
- Vereda do Pico Branco e Terra Chã 4.8 Directions
- Rota do Pico do Espigão 4.5 Directions
Here's what you need to know about the Rota do Pico do Espigão:
The Rota do Pico do Espigão is a community route mapped on AllTrails — it is not part of Madeira's official PR (Percurso Recomendado) trail network managed by IFCN (the regional government's forests and nature-conservation authority). That means it has no official open/closed status, no maintained signage, and no guarantee of trail conditions. Check access and conditions locally before heading out.
| Location | Porto Santo island (north of the village of Ponta) |
| Route type | Loop (circular) |
| Distance | 8.7 km |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Rating | 4.5★ from 17 hiker reviews on AllTrails |
This circular route takes you through nature north of the village of Ponta on Porto Santo — a peaceful corner of the island appreciated by both locals and visitors. The trail showcases Porto Santo's volcanic origins, where nature and human presence coexist harmoniously.
The highlight is Pico do Espigão itself: a magnificent, imposing rock formation (a mugearite lode of intermediate volcanic composition), approximately 12.5–12.7 million years old, cutting through basaltic slag outcrops — a privileged geological observation point with sweeping views over the island.
Directions to the trailhead ↗ — this will route you from your current location.
If you'd prefer an official, signposted trail with a managed status, Porto Santo has three:
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Access fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR 1 – Vereda do Pico Branco e Terra Chã | 2.7 km (one way) | Moderate | €4.50 (≤12 free) |
| PR 2 – Vereda do Pico do Castelo | 3.2–4.6 km | Easy | €4.50 (≤12 free) |
| PR 3 – Levada do Pico Castelo | 4.1 km | Moderate | €4.50 (≤12 free) |
The official trails require a small access fee via the SIMplifica portal.
Would you like me to check the weather forecast for Porto Santo before you go, or help you find how to get there by bus?





