Trilho da Vereda da Trompica

A varied circular hike through Madeira’s mountainous interior, well suited for hikers looking for a moderately challenging route away from the more popular trails. Start and end point is the Miradouro Boca da Corrida (Jardim da Serra). From the viewpoint you already get impressive views over Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley) and the surrounding mountain peaks. From the parking area, the trail first follows the path until you reach the point where the circular route begins. A small tip from experience: The entrance to the loop is not marked and can be easy to miss. It helps to use GPS navigation (for example via AllTrails, which is linked in our app entry) so you can see exactly where to turn. The main challenge of the hike is the ascent to Chão dos Terreiros at 1,436 metres. The route passes through open mountain heath landscapes and sections of Madeira’s laurel forest. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with wide views over Campanário, Câmara de Lobos, the south coast, and on clear days also towards the north and west of the island. Since the fires in 2025, the trail is currently less overgrown and easier to follow than before. Another point where navigation can be helpful: At the highest point of the hike, the continuation of the trail is not immediately obvious. It’s worth checking the GPS map briefly to stay on the right path. Along the way you’ll get beautiful perspectives of Madeira’s central mountain range, the dramatic valley of Curral das Freiras, and the south-west coastline. Tip: Due to the elevation and some steep sections, sure-footedness is recommended. Weather conditions can change quickly in this area, so it’s worth checking the forecast beforehand. The hike also works well as an alternative to PR12, as it starts from the same viewpoint and offers similar views into Curral das Freiras.