Trail and Mountain Route Status
PR1 Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo: Partial Closure Continues, Reopening Date Confirmed
The most crucial news for all mountain lovers concerns the famous PR1 ridge trail. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has confirmed that due to maintenance, the route between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo remains only partially open.
- Who is affected? Hikers planning to traverse between Madeira’s highest peaks.
- What does this mean in practice? From Pico do Areeiro, you can only safely reach the Pedra Rija viewpoint, where a temporary safety gate has been installed. The gate opens at 8:00 AM. Do not attempt to bypass it.
- What do we recommend? If you want to complete the entire trail, you will need to wait. The full, unrestricted reopening is scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2026. Until then, plan a shorter hike to Pedra Rija or choose an alternative route, such as the ascent to Pico Ruivo from Achada do Teixeira (PR1.2).
Lugar de Baixo Lagoon: Birdwatching with a Bitter Taste
The natural lagoon at Lugar de Baixo, near Ponta do Sol, a popular birdwatching spot, is currently suffering from pollution. Although the area is still a haven for many bird species, the visual experience is marred by litter. A full clean-up is not scheduled until September. If you visit, please do not feed the animals and be sure to take all your rubbish with you.
Traffic: What to Watch Out for Today
Traffic Jams on VE1: Avoid the Ribeira Brava – Ponta do Sol Section
Drivers heading to the southwest coast should be aware. Long traffic jams are forming today on the expressway (VE1).
- Who is affected? All drivers travelling between Ribeira Brava and Ponta do Sol.
- What does this mean in practice? The congestion is caused by a malfunctioning traffic light in the Lugar de Baixo area and a minor accident near Tabua. Expect delays of dozens of minutes, with traffic backing up into the tunnels before Ribeira Brava.
- What do we recommend? Avoid this section of the expressway. Take the exit at the Tabua roundabout and continue along the old coastal road (ER101). Alternatively, consider postponing your trip until later in the evening.
Planning a Trip to Porto Santo? Book Your Ferry in Advance
Porto Santo Line has announced that due to immense demand for the Festival of Saint John (São João) celebrations, it is adding an extra ferry service on Sunday, June 28. If you plan to visit the neighbouring island at the end of the month, book your tickets as soon as possible, as they sell out quickly.
Events and Safety in Funchal
Evening Tip: Festival Markets at Praça do Povo
The Atlantic Festival is still in full swing in Madeira. Although the firework competition took place yesterday, the festive atmosphere continues. This evening, we recommend visiting the “Sunset de Verão” summer markets at Praça do Povo in the centre of Funchal. You’ll find 13 stalls offering local food, drinks, and crafts. It’s the perfect way to end your Sunday.
Night-time Safety: General Precautions Advised
Madeira is a very safe destination. However, it is worth remembering basic safety precautions, especially at night in the busy parts of Funchal. Early this morning, a tourist was assaulted on Avenida Sá Carneiro. This is an isolated incident, but we advise walking in groups and avoiding unnecessary conflicts when returning from bars and clubs.