Weather & Safety: Sun is Strong, Don’t Underestimate the UV Index
What’s Happening?
The first day of summer has brought hot weather across Madeira, with temperatures on the coast and in the mountains exceeding 20°C. However, the main alert is the extremely high UV index (level 10), which means a significant risk of sunburn, even on cloudy days.
What This Means & What to Do
- For all tourists: Regardless of your destination, sun protection is essential. Use a high-factor sunscreen (SPF 50+), wear a hat, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated, especially during hikes.
Trail News: The Mountains Offer New Opportunities
Great News from PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: New Morning Slots
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has responded to tourist feedback and increased the daily capacity on Madeira’s most famous route between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo by 140 spots.
- Who does this affect? Anyone planning to do this iconic mountain hike.
- What does this mean in practice? You can now book entry slots for as early as 7:00–7:30 AM and 7:30–8:00 AM. This allows you to start before the main crowds, enjoy the magical morning light, and avoid the peak heat. The gate at Pedra Rija will now open earlier.
- Our recommendation: Don’t hesitate to check the SIMplifica booking portal. The new time slots will fill up quickly. Additionally, starting June 26th, the trail will be open every day of the week.
Partially Open: PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada
After a long closure, a section of the PR 1.3 trail is accessible again. Specifically, the 3.9 km stretch between Pico Ruivo and the Boca das Torrinhas pass is now open.
- Who does this affect? More experienced hikers who enjoy planning their own routes.
- What does this mean in practice? This opens up a new option for descending from Pico Ruivo towards Curral das Freiras (via PR2) or to the north coast. The remaining section of the trail from Boca das Torrinhas to Encumeada is still CLOSED!
- Our recommendation: Always respect the current signage on the trail and do not enter closed sections.
Swimming & Beaches: Doca do Cavacas Closing, Machico is Safe
Planned Closure: Doca do Cavacas in Funchal
The popular Doca do Cavacas natural pools (Poças do Gomes) will be completely closed from tomorrow, Monday, June 22nd, until Friday, June 26th. The reason for the closure is necessary maintenance work to replace the wooden bridges.
- Who does this affect? Tourists in Funchal who were planning to visit these volcanic pools.
- What does this mean in practice? Today (Sunday) is the last chance to swim here. From tomorrow, plan to swim elsewhere, for example, at the nearby Praia Formosa. Be aware of possible access restrictions on the adjacent promenade as well. The complex will reopen on Saturday, June 27th.
Good News from Machico: Swimming is Safe Again
The sandy beach in Machico, which was briefly closed as a precaution due to water contamination, is now fully open again. Water quality tests have confirmed that the water is clean and safe for swimming.
- Who does this affect? Visitors staying on the east side of the island.
- What does this mean in practice? Any information you may have seen about the beach being closed is no longer valid. It is safe to swim there today.
Culture & Events: Cherry Festivals, Sheep Shearing & Music
The first Sunday of summer is filled with traditional celebrations and festivals across the island. It’s an ideal opportunity to experience the authentic Madeira.
- Festa da Cereja: The famous Cherry Festival in Jardim da Serra is reaching its peak. A large ethnographic parade begins at 4:30 PM. It’s a great chance to taste local cherries and cherry-based specialities.
- Tosquias Tradicionais: In the mountains near Chão dos Terreiros (Poiso), you can experience traditional sheep shearing, complete with a folk festival, food, and music.
- Summer Opening Music Festival: If you love music, don’t miss out. Tickets for the biggest summer festival, which starts in a few days, are 92% sold out. Today is your last chance to buy them online.
- Recommendation: Expect increased traffic and limited parking at the event locations.