Located in the north ofPorto Santo Island, the hike to Pico Branco and Terra Chã charmed us with its exceptional views over the Atlantic Ocean. This unspoilt natural area winds its way between mountain peaks. We have precious memories of that suspended moment when sky, nature and ocean merged.
Find all our useful tips and photos to help you plan your excursion and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the island!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Tour summary – map
- Distance: 2.7km (one way only)
- Ascent: 450m
- Duration: 1h to 1h15 (one-way only)
- Level of difficulty: moderate
- Starting point: Parking PR1 Vereda Pico Branco and Terra Chã
- Arrival point: Terra Chã
- Loop: no
- Free access
- Wear good shoes, as the trail is strewn with rocks and boulders. Some passages may be slippery.
- Take water to avoid dehydration.
Along the way, you’ll see signs and markings to help you find your way around. Here’s a map to help you visualize the entire hike:
Is the PR1 – Pico Branco and Terra Chã hike worth it? Our review
The hike to Pico Branco and Terra Chã is a magnificent walk. Our photos speak for themselves. We were captivated by the different views of the ocean and the land. It was one of our favorite things to do on the island! Especially as Pico Branco is Porto Santo’s second-highest peak!
The trail is well laid out and relatively easy to follow, but with a few climbs. Keep an eye on your feet. Between roots and protruding rocks, there is a risk of falling. We recommend that you wear suitable walking shoes.
For more guidance and to learn more about the island, we recommend a guided tour. – See prices, photos and availability.
Our favorite moments:
- After the climb at the start of the walk, you’ll watch the landscape change to reveal the Atlantic Ocean (not visible at the start of the hike).
- The view from the summit of Pico Branco.
- The magnificent panorama offered by Terra Chã.
What are the difficulties?
The floor
In some places, the route is strewn with stones and roots. Watch your step!
The stairs
We noticed a few steps as we climbed. They are irregular, especially the flight of steps leading up to Pico Branco.
The sun and the wind
Madeira is known for its very windy and sunny climate. Remember to wear sunscreen and take water with you. The higher you go, the stronger the winds!
WHERE TO STAY IN Porto Santo
Option 1 : Vila Baleira (north beach)
For access to a small town and the beach
- Hotel Torre Praia – prices, pictures and availability
- Vista Dourada apartment: see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: Central or southern beach
Tourist areas near the beach
- Pestana Porto Santo, 5 stars – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Porto Santo & Spa, 4 stars – prices, pictures and availability
Access to PR1 – Vereda do Pico Branco e Terra Chã
Where is the trailhead?
The hike officially starts at the PR1 Vereda Pico Branco and Terra Chã parking lot.
Here’s the large sign at the parking lot to help you find the start of the hike:
Access by car and parking
To reach this hike, take the ER111 road to the north of the island. You’ll need to hire a car to get there. Slow down to avoid missing the sign indicating the start of the route and the parking lot.
Alternatively, we suggest you opt for the fully guided tour, which lasts around 3 hours – see prices, photos and availability.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Porto Santo
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- The island is small and easy to drive.
- A car gives you plenty of freedom to explore every corner of Porto Santo
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Useful tips for hiking Pico Branco and Terra Chã
How long and when is the best time?
- Allow between 2h and 2h30 for a leisurely hike from the parking lot. Not to mention a possible lunch break at the summit.
- We recommend scheduling this tour for the morning. You’ll avoid the heat and the crowds.
- Avoid hiking in the middle of the day, when the sun is at its zenith. There’s shade only on certain parts of the path.
The meaning of hiking
This hike is well signposted. We had no doubts about where we were going. On the outward journey, follow the red and yellow signs and markings. Once you reach the crossroads, you can choose between climbing Pico Branco or going straight to Terra Chã.
We climbed Pico Branco first, then descended to Terra Chã. When you return, you’ll retrace your steps. This route is not a loop.
Hiking with children
Although the hike is well signposted, it is still quite dangerous. We do not recommend it for families with young children. Some passages are very narrow, and the floor is uneven. A fall can happen all too quickly.
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- + 120 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 260 photos to help you choose
Part one: gaining altitude
Inland views
The first part of the hike is quite steep. We left the parking lot and started climbing straight away.
The ascent was rather pleasant, as we made multiple stops to contemplate the magnificent scenery. Impressive mountain peaks faced us!
During the gradual ascent, you’ll climb stairs with handrails. Some parts of the trail are slippery due to piles of small stones.
Vegetation and wild plants
Look around you at the island’s lush flora! Since 2020, Porto Santo has been part of the European Natura 2000 network.
As you progress, you’ll observe the vegetation that lines the trail. It winds through varied terrain, including green and rocky areas. We were struck by this pale blue plant, which seemed to grow right out of the rock.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Porto Santo
Depuis Ponta Calheta, découvrez la côte et les grottes en Kayak.
An unforgettable experience close to the volcanic cliffs.
Part two: reaching Pico Branco
Ocean views
After climbing a row of steps, we reached the junction between the first and second parts of the hike. Before that, we’d caught glimpses of the ocean that hinted at the landscape to come.
Once you’ve passed this intersection, you’ll enjoy breathtaking ocean views all the way to Pico Branco and Terra Chã. This part of the route is slightly downhill.
Climbing the last few metres of Pico Branco
After a few minutes’ walk, you’ll come to a crossroads marked by a directional sign. If you turn right, you’ll reach Terra Chã. On the other hand, if you turn left, as we did, you can climb up to Pico Branco.
On the way up to the peak, don’t hesitate to stop and take in the scenery between the trees. The view is incredible on both sides of the trail. We gazed out over the blue ocean and rocky escarpments.
Take a look to the right as you climb to the top to see this:
Once you reach the highest point of Pico Branco, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the land and ocean. The show took our breath away. A majestic tree towers over the valley.
The 360° panorama
Take time to explore the peak and capture the incredible scenery! We came away with some superb photos, which we hope will inspire you to take this hike!
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Part three: contemplating Terra Chã
Observe the red rock
Retrace your steps to reach the intersection where the directional sign is. This time, you’ll be heading for Terra Chã.
Along the way, observe the lichen nibbling away at the rock faces, part of the island’s native flora. It stood out particularly well against the red rock formation. We were intrigued by the color of the rock!
Picnic at Miradouro de Terra Chã
Just a few more metres and we’ve arrived at Terra Chã. Once again, we were overwhelmed by the 360° natural landscape. How could I not be?
If you’ve packed a picnic, now’s the time to have lunch facing the ocean. Take advantage of this enchanted interlude to recharge your batteries!
Between 2 bites, enjoy the panoramic view of the island from either side of the Terra Chã. On the horizon, we could make out a light mist that gave Porto Santo a mysterious atmosphere. It was even difficult to tell the sky from the ocean, as the 2 were so intertwined in the distance.
La Casa de Pico Branco
Before turning back, take a quick look at the Casa de Pico Branco. This small stone dwelling houses a large outdoor oven. It seems out of proportion to the size of the house.
To get back to the parking lot, you’ll have to retrace your steps. Although this hike is not a loop, you won’t get bored on the way back.
We loved discovering the views of the island from a different perspective. For example, the panorama captured in our photo below had eluded us on the outward journey. Stay tuned so you don’t miss a thing! We ended our hike on a high note.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Porto Santo
Best of
Best things to do in Porto Santo
The most beautiful landscapes in photos
Porto Santo’s most beautiful beaches
The dunes
Salemas natural pools
Best restaurants
Terra Cha hiking trail
Pico Ana Feireira
Practical advice
How to get to Porto Santo
Getting around Porto Santo
Rent a car in Porto Santo
Where to stay in Porto Santo – best hotels
