Key Information for Tourists: Trail Alerts!
Wednesday on Madeira calls for flexibility from hiking enthusiasts. Some of the most popular trails have restrictions or are completely closed. Here’s a summary of the most important information to ensure your day is safe and free of complications.
PR 1 – Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo)
- Who this affects: Anyone planning the famous ridge walk.
- What this means: The trail is only open for a short 1.2 km section from Pico do Areeiro to the Ninho da Manta viewpoint. The path onward to Pico Ruivo is closed. The full traverse is not possible today.
- Our recommendation: Enjoy the views from Pico do Areeiro and the short walk to the first viewpoint. For a longer hike, choose an alternative, open trail at a lower altitude.
PR 6 – Levada das 25 Fontes
- Who this affects: Hikers heading to the Rabaçal area.
- What this means: The bypass route, which helps manage foot traffic, is temporarily closed for maintenance. All hikers will be directed onto the original narrow path, meaning you’ll encounter people moving in both directions. Expect delays and “traffic jams.”
- Our recommendation: If you’re not a fan of crowds, either start your hike very early in the morning or consider a less frequented alternative, such as Levada do Alecrim (PR 6.2).
Other Closed Trails
- PR 10 – Levada do Furado: Remains completely closed due to the aftermath of a landslide.
- PR 3 – Vereda do Burro (Porto Santo): Also closed.
Don’t forget: An eco-fee, introduced in January 2026, is mandatory for entry onto official hiking trails.
Weather, Funchal, and Practical Tips for Today
Weather: Mostly Cloudy, but Pleasant
Today will be mostly cloudy, with the sun making only occasional appearances. Temperatures in Funchal will range from 15 to 21°C with a light breeze, ideal for city walks or lower-altitude levada hikes. The sea on the south coast is calm (waves up to 1m), but be cautious when swimming on the north coast (Porto Moniz, Seixal), where waves can reach 2–3 meters.
Funchal Alert: Traffic Restrictions from 3:30 PM
- Who this affects: Tourists and drivers in central Funchal.
- What this means: A demonstration is scheduled for 3:30 PM in the vicinity of Quinta Vigia (near Santa Catarina Park). Temporary traffic restrictions are expected on adjacent streets.
- Our recommendation: If you do not wish to participate, it’s best to avoid this area in the afternoon.
Tip for Drivers: Park Like a Local
Madeira is steep, and parking here has its own rules. After parking, always fully engage the handbrake and leave the car in gear (first gear when parking uphill, reverse when parking downhill). This will help you avoid any nasty surprises.
What to Do on a Cloudy Day?
If mountain hikes aren’t appealing and the weather isn’t right for swimming, we have a suggestion. The Quinta das Cruzes museum in Funchal is hosting a free conference today at 3:00 PM titled “Madeira and Swing Jazz,” about the golden era of music on the island. It’s an ideal way to spend a quiet afternoon.
Good News to Finish
Planning future trips? The airline TAP has announced a new direct route between Funchal and Faro (Algarve region). This will make combining a holiday in Madeira with a trip to the south of Portugal much easier.