There are two options available to hikers who wish to explore Vereda do Pico do Castelo.
One is 3.2 km long and takes about 1:30 hours, and the other is 4.6 km long and takes about 2:15 hours walking. Both offer the chance to enjoy contact with the fauna and flora of the island of Porto Santo and to discover unique landscapes.
Vereda do Pico do Castelo starts at Moledo, next to the regional road and offers two alternatives for those climbing the forest road: following the northern side of Pico do Facho, or the southern side (the longest trail on the island).
At the foot of that peak, crossing the central part of the island, you can see traces of the old agricultural area.
At the top of Pico do Castelo, you will find a statue that pays tribute to António Schiappa de Azevedo, the driving force behind the reforestation of the island.
Among exotic species, such as the Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), and indigenous species, such as the dragon tree (Dracaena draco), permanent contact with the flora enriches the walking experience along Vereda do Pico do Castelo.
On the way up to Pico do Castelo - so called because there was a fort that sheltered the population from pirate attacks - you can explore the Canhão Viewpoint.
Details
Distance: 4.6 km
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2:15 hours
Start/End: Moledo / Canhão Viewpoint
Max. Altitude / Min. Altitude: 435 m / 225 m
IFCN Madeira
Rua João de Deus 12 F, RC C
9050-027 Funchal
9050-027 Funchal
