Mountains and Hiking Trails: Important PR1 Changes and New Rules
We’re starting today’s update with the most important news for all hiking enthusiasts. It concerns the island’s most popular trek and new rules for accessing marked trails.
WARNING: Partial Closure of the PR1 Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo Trail
- Who is affected? All hikers planning to traverse between Madeira’s third-highest and highest peaks.
- What does this mean in practice? For safety reasons, the eastern route (via Pico das Torres) is completely closed. The western route (via the tunnels) is open, but only for 1.2 km up to the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint. Therefore, hiking between the peaks from Pico do Areeiro is currently not possible.
- What do we recommend? If you want to summit Pico Ruivo, take the alternative and fully accessible trail, PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo, which starts from the car park at Achada do Teixeira.
New Booking and Fee System
- Who is affected? All non-resident travellers.
- What does this mean in practice? For selected classified trails (PR), it is necessary to make an online reservation and pay a fee in advance. This is all handled through the SIMplifica portal. Children under 12 are admitted free of charge.
- What do we recommend? Before any planned hike, check the current conditions and reservation requirements on the official IFCN institute website.
Weather: Prepare for Clouds, Rain, and Saharan Dust
Today’s weather is better suited for relaxation than for strenuous mountain excursions. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and variable conditions.
- Who is affected? Everyone, especially tourists heading to the north coast and the mountains.
- What does this mean in practice? Expect overcast skies. Light showers may occur on the north coast (in areas like Porto Moniz or São Vicente) and in the mountains. In the mountains, a northerly wind of up to 30 km/h will make it feel colder. Saharan dust (calima) is also still present in the air, reducing visibility.
- What do we recommend? Be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and a warmer layer of clothing in your backpack today. People with respiratory problems should avoid strenuous physical activity.
Funchal is Buzzing! Flower Festival and International Museum Day
While the mountains are showing their tougher side, the capital city of Funchal offers a perfect alternative itinerary, much of it for free.
Flower Festival and a Bustling City Centre
- Who is affected? Visitors to Funchal.
- What does this mean in practice? Thanks to the ongoing Flower Festival (Festa da Flor), the city is full of life, colour, and beautiful floral displays. However, this also brings very heavy traffic and parking difficulties.
- What do we recommend? Leave your car at the hotel and head into the city centre by bus or on foot. You’ll save yourself the stress and get to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Tip of the Day: Free Museum Entry
- Who is affected? Anyone looking for something to do on a rainy day.
- What does this mean in practice? Today, May 18th, is International Museum Day. As a result, most cultural institutions across the island are offering free admission or special events.
- What do we recommend? Take advantage of this fantastic opportunity! It’s the perfect Plan B. Instead of hiking, you can enjoy Madeira’s history, art, and nature in a warm, dry setting.