Travel Alert: Major easyJet Strike
Travel to and from Madeira today is significantly complicated by the ongoing cabin crew strike at easyJet, which is set to last until Tuesday, October 6th. Up to 90% of the airline’s flights are expected to be canceled.
- Who is affected? All passengers with a ticket booked with easyJet.
- What does this mean in practice? International flights and most domestic routes face massive cancellations. Only government-mandated minimum services on routes between Madeira, Porto, and Lisbon are operating. Even these flights are at risk of delays and complications.
- What do we recommend? Immediately check the status of your flight on the easyJet website or app. Actively communicate with the airline regarding rebooking or refund options. If you are on the island, have a backup plan in case your stay needs to be extended.
Hiking & Trails: Current Conditions and Important Warning
The mountains and levadas are prime for hiking, but it’s essential to be aware of several key restrictions. Last night, a small sugarcane fire occurred in the Canhas area near Ponta do Sol. While it was quickly extinguished and poses no current danger, please exercise caution in this area due to dry soil conditions from recent larger fires.
Status of Hiking Trails (PR)
- Open and Recommended: Great news—the PR10 Levada do Furado trail (Ribeiro Frio – Portela) is now fully open following repairs from a landslide.
- Currently Closed: The following trails remain closed: PR3 Vereda do Burro, PR7 Levada do Moinho, PR16 Levada Fajã do Rodrigues, PR20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar, PR27 Glaciar de Planalto, and PR28 Levada da Rocha Vermelha.
- PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: The route between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo is open only in one direction (towards Ruivo) and exclusively via the western path through the tunnels.
Key Warning for Sunday, October 4th!
Tomorrow morning, due to the Eco Rally Madeira car race, the road from Eira do Serrado to Pico do Areeiro will be closed from 07:55 to 10:08. If you planned a sunrise visit or an early morning hike from Areeiro, you will not be able to access the car park. Choose a different destination or an alternative access route.
Don’t forget: For non-residents, online registration and payment of a fee via the SIMplifica portal are mandatory to access the official hiking trails (PR).
Where to Go for Culture and Experiences Today?
Despite the travel complications, Madeira offers a rich program of events. This is an ideal opportunity to experience another side of the island.
- Music in Funchal: At Santa Catarina Park today at 21:30 (9:30 PM), there will be a grand concert by the Portuguese Navy Band. Famed Madeiran singer Vânia Fernandes will also perform, and admission is free.
- Apple Festival in Camacha: The traditional Festa da Maçã (Apple Festival) is taking place in the picturesque mountain town of Camacha. You can taste fresh apple cider (sidra), sample local specialties, and buy farm products while enjoying folklore performances. An ideal afternoon trip.
- Charity Event in Ribeira Brava: On the coastal promenade in Ribeira Brava, the “Um dia pela VIDA” (“A Day for LIFE”) festival culminates today with markets and music. The event will conclude with a symbolic parade of lights at 21:15 (9:15 PM).