Safety First: What to Watch Out For
Increased Caution at the Beach in Paul do Mar
Local authorities in Paul do Mar are warning visitors to the popular pebble beach, Praia da Quebrada, about the presence of sea anemones. This is not a danger that would lead to the beach’s closure, but rather a natural phenomenon indicating water purity that requires caution.
- Who is affected? Visitors to rocky beaches on the west of the island, especially families with children.
- What does this mean in practice? When walking in the water, especially at low tide, there is a risk of painful stings from anemones attached to the rocky seabed.
- What we recommend: Always enter the water with protective footwear. When moving among the rocks, watch your step and avoid touching the seabed.
Drive Carefully on the Island of Porto Santo
A traffic accident occurred on the Estrada da Calheta road on the island of Porto Santo, requiring emergency services to respond. The incident is a reminder that local roads can be treacherous during the summer season.
- Who is affected? Drivers of cars, scooters, and quads on Porto Santo.
- What does this mean in practice? Increased traffic, narrow, and winding roads increase the risk of accidents and may cause temporary delays on the way to the beaches.
- What we recommend: Drive defensively, adapt your speed to the conditions, and be patient.
Trail Status: Key Info for Hikers
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: Viewpoint Closure and Mandatory Registration
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has announced a temporary restriction on Madeira’s most famous mountain trail.
- Who is affected? All hikers planning to traverse the route between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo.
- What does this mean in practice? On Wednesday, August 19th, and Thursday, August 20th, access to the iconic Ninho da Manta viewpoint will be completely closed for maintenance. The PR1 trail itself will remain open.
- What we recommend: If you want the full experience, including a photo from the “Eagle’s Nest,” plan your hike for another day. Remember that online registration and payment of a fee via the SIMplifica portal are required to access the trail, and the section after Pedra Rija is strictly one-way.
Cheap but decent
Holidays Madeira
São Vicente
Adults-only guest house in a historic São Vicente building, free parking, volcanic caves 14 min walk. Bathrooms are shared.
Cheap but decent
Estalagem Estrela
Estrela
Small inn in Estrela with private bathrooms, balconies, mountain views and free parking. Pet friendly, but Funchal marina is 9 km away.
Cheap but decent
Oceanview room
Ponta Delgada
Room with sea-view terrace on the quiet north coast, shared kitchen, washing machine and free parking. Airport is 40 km away.
Cheap but decent
Habitación santo antonio
Estrela
Simple room above Funchal in Estrela with private bathroom, mountain view and free parking. The marina is 9 km away, so bring a car.
Cheap but decent
Casa da Montanha
Salão
Homestay in the Salão hills, 5 km from the Porto Moniz pools, kitchen and free parking. The bathroom is shared.
Cheap but decent
Narciso's House
São Vicente
Simple São Vicente guest house, volcanic caves 7 min walk, kitchen and free parking. Some rooms only have a shared bathroom.
Cheap but decent
Casa do Arco
Arco da Calheta
Homestay in Arco da Calheta with sun terrace, shared kitchen and free parking. Nearest beach 1,8 km downhill, airport 48 km.
Cheap but decent
Porto Santo Destination
Porto Santo
Hostel 4 min from Porto Santo's sand beach, breakfast and free parking included. At this price it is two dorm beds, not a private room.
Culture and Entertainment: Where to Go Day and Night
Funchal Celebrates: Free Open-Air ABBA Concert
Don’t miss the main cultural event of the week. Funchal is celebrating 518 years since it was granted city status with a spectacular concert.
- Who is it for? All music lovers, families, and couples in and around Funchal.
- What’s happening? On Thursday, August 20th, from 9:30 PM, an open-air symphonic concert featuring the hits of ABBA will take place in Parque de Santa Catarina. Admission is completely free.
- What we recommend: Arrive well in advance to find a good spot. Bring a blanket and enjoy a unique evening with a view of the harbour.
Tip for a Guided Hike: From Fanal to the 25 Fontes Without the Hassle
Want to explore the most beautiful levadas in the Rabaçal area but don’t have a car or want to avoid logistical complications? The Madeira Camping Club is organizing a 15km guided hike with local guides on Saturday, August 22nd.
- Who is it for? Tourists who prefer guided tours or do not have their own transportation.
- What’s included? The registration fee includes transportation from Funchal and back, as well as insurance. This means you don’t have to deal with the critical parking situation at Rabaçal.
- What we recommend: This is a great opportunity to enjoy the hike to the fullest and safely. Register as soon as possible via WhatsApp (+351 969 591 687) or email.
Other Event Tips
- Tennis on Porto Santo: Until August 22nd, public training sessions and a tournament are taking place at the Porto Santo Racket Center. Ideal for an active break.
- History in São Vicente: On Thursday, August 27th, from 4:00 PM, an interesting lecture on Madeiran history will be held at the São Vicente town hall as part of the local festivities.