Transport: Disruptions at the Airport and on the North Coast
Traveling to, from, and around Madeira today requires patience and careful planning. Significant disruptions are reported at the airport and on a key road on the island’s north coast.
Strike at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
- Who is affected? Passengers departing from Madeira on international flights today.
- What does this mean? Due to an ongoing strike by a handling company, international flights are at risk of significant delays or even cancellation. Domestic flights to Lisbon and Porto are protected and should operate as scheduled.
- What should you do? Before heading to the airport, check your flight status directly with your airline. This will help you avoid unnecessary waiting in the departure lounge.
Roadworks on the VE2 (São Vicente – Seixal)
- Who is affected? Drivers heading to the north coast between São Vicente and Seixal.
- What does this mean? Due to rock face clearing work above the road, traffic is completely stopped in both directions for approximately 30 minutes at regular intervals. Traffic is then released alternately.
- What should you do? If you must travel this way, allow for plenty of extra time. If possible, consider choosing a different destination for your trip today.
Mountain Hiking: WARNING, PR1 from Areeiro to Ruivo is CLOSED
For mountain trekking enthusiasts, this is the most important news of the day. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has announced a major closure on one of the most popular routes.
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo)
- Who is affected? All hikers who were planning to take the island’s most famous mountain trail.
- What does this mean? For safety reasons, the trail between Madeira’s third-highest and highest peaks is completely closed. Only a short section (1.2 km) from the Pico do Areeiro car park to the Ninho da Manta / Pedra Rija viewpoint is accessible. You cannot proceed any further.
- What should you do? You can still reach the highest peak, Pico Ruivo (1862m). Take the easier, fully open alternative route, PR1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo, starting from the Achada do Teixeira car park.
Other Closures and Entrance Fees
In addition to PR1, the following routes are also currently closed: PR10 Levada do Furado, PR1.3 Vereda da Encumeada, and PR3 Pico do Castelo on the island of Porto Santo. In contrast, the popular and easy PR11 Vereda dos Balcões trail is fully open.
Also, remember that as of the beginning of 2026, non-residents are required to pay an online fee to access all designated PR trails.
Tip of the Day: Visit Madeira’s Lighthouses for Free
Do the disruptions leave you with a free afternoon? Take advantage of a unique opportunity! As part of the Portuguese Navy Day celebrations, two beautiful lighthouses are open to the public for free from today (May 20) until Sunday (May 24). You can explore areas normally closed to visitors and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
- Where: Farol da Ponta do Pargo (western tip of the island) and Farol de São Jorge (north coast).
- When: Daily from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Wednesday’s Weather
Today’s weather in Madeira is mostly cloudy with light to moderate winds. It’s slightly warmer in the mountains, but views may be limited by clouds. Conditions are ideal for walks along the levadas at lower altitudes, but it’s not a great day for sunbathing.