Transportation: By Ferry, Bus, and Car
August in Madeira is in full swing, and the transport situation reflects that. We have some key updates to help you plan your trips, whether by car or public transport.
Extra Ferries to Porto Santo Today
- Who this affects: Anyone wanting to visit the neighboring island of Porto Santo and its famous sandy beach.
- What this means: Today, Wednesday, August 26th, Porto Santo Line is running extra services on the Lobo Marinho ferry. In addition to the 8:00 morning departure, you can also sail from Funchal at 16:00. Return trips from Porto Santo will run at 12:00 in addition to the evening departure at 20:00.
- Our recommendation: Take this unique opportunity for a flexible day trip. You can go in the morning and return at noon, or enjoy an afternoon on the beach by departing at 16:00 and coming back in the evening or the next day. Book your tickets online as soon as possible, as capacity is limited.
A Weekend in Curral das Freiras? By Bus Only!
- Who this affects: Travelers planning to visit the Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras) this weekend (August 29th-30th).
- What this means: The traditional festival, Festa de Nossa Senhora do Livramento, is taking place in the valley. The town center will be closed to cars, and parking will be nearly impossible. Therefore, the bus company Horários do Funchal is significantly increasing service on route 181 from Funchal. On Saturday, buses will run from 16:30 until 02:30, and on Sunday from 14:30 to 21:00.
- Our recommendation: Leave your car in Funchal. Take the bus from near the cable car station and enjoy an authentic Madeiran festival without the stress of driving and parking.
Warning: Road ER 208 (Estrada das Ginjas)
- Who this affects: Drivers wanting to explore the island’s interior in the north, in the São Vicente area.
- What this means: Road ER 208, known as Estrada das Ginjas, is in very poor condition. It is an unpaved road full of potholes and is completely unsuitable for standard rental cars.
- Our recommendation: Avoid this road. There is a high risk of undercarriage damage, which is not covered by rental car insurance. Use the main paved roads to travel through this area.
Hiking & Trails: The Mountains Are Calling, Be Careful
Hiking conditions are excellent, but it’s essential to follow the rules and prioritize safety. Here is an overview of the most important points.
Trail Status: PR1 is Open, Hikes Require Registration
- Who this affects: All lovers of hiking, levadas, and mountain treks.
- What this means: The vast majority of official PR trails are open, including the most popular ridge walk, PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo), and PR10 Levada do Furado. Five trails remain closed long-term: Levada do Barreiro, Vereda da Ribeira da Janela, PR17 (Pináculo e Folhadal), PR20 (Vereda do Jardim do Mar), and Levada da Azenha.
- Our recommendation: Before every hike on a marked trail (PR), you must register on the SIMplifica portal and pay the €4.50 fee (for non-residents). Accessing a trail without registration or entering a closed trail is subject to heavy fines.
Mountain Safety First
- Who this affects: Especially hikers heading to higher altitudes (the Pico Ruivo, Areeiro area, etc.).
- What this means: For the rest of the summer, emergency services have only one helicopter available for both mountain rescue and firefighting. This means that assistance in an emergency may be delayed.
- Our recommendation: Exercise extreme caution. Stick to marked and open trails, keep your phone fully charged, carry plenty of water, and inform someone of your plans. Lighting fires is strictly prohibited.
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Events, Gastronomy & Local Happenings
Gastronomic Evenings in Funchal
- Who this is for: Foodies and anyone looking to enjoy a premium evening experience in Funchal.
- What’s happening: The Savoy Signature hotel group is offering events open to the public. You can attend the outdoor “Fire Pit” barbecue at Terreiro restaurant, or the Friday “The Summer Grill” and Saturday “Sushi Nights” at the Royal Savoy hotel.
- Our recommendation: Enjoy a wonderful evening with high-quality food and live music. Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance.
Local Disruption in Caniço
- Who this affects: Tourists staying in or passing through the Caniço area.
- What’s happening: Around noon today, firefighters responded to an apartment fire on Estrada Alternativa.
- Our recommendation: You may still encounter temporary traffic restrictions in this area. Please be considerate and give way to emergency vehicles.