Status of Mountain Trails and Levadas
The weather is stabilizing after the recent storm, but key mountain trails remain affected. Always check the current status before planning your hike.
PR1 Pico do Areeiro → Pico Ruivo: MAJOR RESTRICTIONS
- Who this affects: All hikers planning the most popular ridge walk in Madeira.
- What this means in practice: The PR1 trail is accessible only for a short section from the Pico do Areeiro car park to the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint (approx. 1.2 km). The path forward towards the tunnels and Pico Ruivo is CLOSED. The full ridge crossing is not possible today. The PR1.3 trail (Vereda da Encumeada) is also completely closed.
- What we recommend: If you want to reach the highest peak, Pico Ruivo (1862 m), take the PR1.2 access trail from the Achada do Teixeira car park. This route is open and in good condition. Don’t forget about the new tourist fee required to access these trails.
Good News from Rabaçal: Levadas are Open
- Who this affects: Levada and waterfall enthusiasts, families with children, and tourists looking for an alternative activity.
- What this means in practice: The trails in the Rabaçal area, specifically PR 6.4 (Levada Velha) and PR 6.5 (Vereda do Pico Fernandes), are open. This is one of the best and safest hiking options today.
- What we recommend: Wear waterproof and sturdy footwear – the terrain will be wet and muddy in places after the rain. Expect larger crowds, as many people will be heading here as an alternative.
Weather and Road Safety
Expect overcast skies and occasional light rain this morning, which should ease in the afternoon. Temperatures are around 16°C. The ground is saturated after the recent rainfall.
- Who this affects: Anyone spending time outdoors, and especially drivers.
- What this means in practice: Levada paths and trails will be slippery. Mountain roads may be covered with fallen leaves or small rocks. Viewpoints at higher elevations will likely be in the clouds this morning.
- What we recommend: Drive carefully and with increased caution. Do not park your car under rock overhangs or large trees. It’s best to wait until the afternoon for trips to viewpoints.
Practical Tips for Funchal and Drivers
Busy Funchal City Center
- Who this affects: Visitors to Funchal.
- What this means in practice: The large cruise ship MSC Musica is docked in the harbor. This means significantly more people in the city center, at the Mercado dos Lavradores market, and at the lower station of the Monte cable car.
- What we recommend: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting the botanical gardens, which will be beautifully fresh after the rain, or explore the north coast.
Fuel Prices
- Who this affects: Drivers with rental cars.
- What this means in practice: A further increase in petrol and diesel prices is expected.
- What we recommend: If you need to return your car with a full tank or have a long drive ahead, consider refueling as soon as possible.