Forest Bathing in Madeira: Hiking the PR1 Trail

Have you ever heard the term “Forest Bathing” and wondered what it actually means? Well, it’s not about soaking in a tub in the middle of the woods! The concept of forest bathing started in the 1980s in Japan. Back then, people were encouraged to spend time in nature to combat burnout from the growing tech industry. By the 1990s, researchers began studying the effects, and it turns out, spending time in nature is incredibly beneficial for your well-being. And that’s why we’re all about forest bathing here in Madeira, Portugal. Our island is known for its stunning natural beauty, from the Atlantic Ocean to the peaks of the mountains. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and reap the benefits.

A Hike Through Madeira’s PR1 Trail

We’re Doug and Monique, and we retired early to make the most of what we call a “Better Second Half of Life.” One way we embrace this philosophy is by staying active and connected to nature. This time, we took on the PR1 trail, Madeira’s most famous hiking route, which takes you from one peak to another—Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. PR stands for “Pequena Rota” (meaning “small route” in Portuguese), but this hike is anything but small! It’s part of a national hiking system across Portugal, with this specific route being moderately difficult and absolutely iconic. This trail has challenged us before. We’ve had to turn back due to harsh weather—pouring rain, cold winds, and clouds so thick you couldn’t see in front of you. But this time, the conditions were perfect!

Getting Started: Forest Bathing and Hiking Essentials

Before we hit the trail, we made sure to have the right gear: wool hats, windbreakers, and warm layers to handle the chilly start. But once we got moving, the sun came out, and we quickly started shedding layers. That’s one of the tricks to hiking—you come prepared for the worst, but you usually end up carrying half of your gear as the day heats up. For this particular hike, we also booked a pickup service recommended by one of our amazing viewers. This service drops you off at the start of the hike and picks you up at the end, so you don’t have to hike both ways if you’re short on time—or, like us, you need to get back home to take care of “Mr. Leo” (our dog).

The Beauty of Forest Bathing on the PR1

Forest bathing, for us, means immersing all your senses in nature. The scent of eucalyptus and pine trees, the colorful flowers lining the paths, and the sound of birds and rustling leaves—it’s like natural aromatherapy. Hiking in these surroundings is so calming and rejuvenating. The trail itself is stunning, with views of lush valleys, towering mountains, and deep canyons. We started with a gentle descent, but as they say, what goes down must come up! The hike had its challenging moments, especially with steep staircases, narrow paths, and sudden drops. But the railings and well-marked paths helped make it manageable. We passed through dark tunnels carved into the rock, which offered a welcome break from the sun. If it had been raining, those tunnels would have been a great place to wait it out! Thankfully, we didn’t have to worry about that this time.

Reaching the Peak: A Rewarding View

After a couple of hours, we reached Pico Ruivo, the highest point in Madeira. Standing there, above the clouds, the view was absolutely breathtaking. It was a surreal moment—mountain peaks surrounded by clouds, with the warm sun cutting through the mist. We stopped for a well-earned lunch break and soaked in the moment. The hike back down to Teixeira, where the parking lot and restaurant are located, was a much easier walk. The lower elevations are full of flowers and bees, giving the landscape a vibrant, lively feel.

Takeaways from Forest Bathing

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, forest bathing can be a transformative experience. You don’t have to start with a massive hike—begin with a walk around your neighborhood, and gradually work your way toward longer hikes in nature. The benefits of walking in nature are undeniable, and it’s a fantastic way to stay fit, clear your mind, and connect with the world around you. We hope our experience hiking the PR1 has inspired you to get outside, explore nature, and maybe even take up forest bathing in your “Second Half of Life.” Thanks for reading and spending part of your day with us. Until next time, don’t forget to Track Us Down!