Festa do Monte Peaks: How to Get There and What to Expect
The largest religious and popular festival in Madeira, Festa de Nossa Senhora do Monte, culminates today and tomorrow. If you want to immerse yourself in the authentic Madeiran atmosphere and taste traditional espetada and bolo do caco, head to the Monte district above Funchal.
- Who is affected? Anyone moving around Funchal and Monte this evening and tomorrow.
- What does this mean in practice? You cannot get to Monte by car. The area is closed to private transport, and parking is impossible. Due to the high risk of fires, this year’s festival will be held completely without fireworks. There is an increased police and emergency services presence on site.
- What we recommend: Leave your car in Funchal and use the enhanced bus service, line 021. Special buses run uphill from 18:00 to 01:00 and return to the city center until 04:00 in the morning. Keep an eye on your personal belongings in the crowd.
Important Alerts for Tourists and Hikers
Machico Beach is Temporarily Closed for Swimming
The popular sandy beach Banda d’Além in Machico is closed until further notice due to microbiological contamination of the water. A red flag is displayed at the site.
- Who is affected? Tourists and families with children who were planning to swim in Machico.
- What does this mean in practice? Entry into the water is prohibited. Water samples are being tested today, and a decision on reopening will be made in the coming days.
- What we recommend: Choose an alternative location for today. For example, try the beaches in Caniçal, the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz, or in Seixal.
Current Status of Mountain Trails (PR) and New 2026 Rules
Before starting any officially marked trail (PR), it is now mandatory to register and pay a fee on the government portal, SIMplifica. Failure to register may result in fines. Also, pay close attention to the current restrictions on the most popular trails.
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo): The trail is open, but only its western section through the tunnels. The eastern ridge route via Pico das Torres is permanently closed. Furthermore, the section from the Pedra Rija viewpoint to Pico Ruivo is now strictly one-way. Do not plan to return the same way!
- PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada: Only the section between Pico Ruivo and Boca das Torrinhas is open. The trail onwards towards Encumeada remains closed.
- PR 10 Levada do Furado: Good news – this levada is fully accessible again after renovations.
Recommendation for all hikers: It is very hot today, and the mountains are experiencing gusty winds (up to 40 km/h). Start early in the morning, bring at least 2 liters of water per person, and protect yourself from the sun.
Weather and Other Island Events
Friday’s Weather
Expect a hot summer day on the south coast and in Funchal, with temperatures up to 29°C. The north and mountainous areas will be cloudier with a chance of isolated evening showers. A yellow warning for high temperatures is in effect.
Funchal – Porto Santo Regatta Kicks Off
This afternoon, a yacht race to the island of Porto Santo begins from Funchal as part of the Funchal Náutico 2026 event. If you are in the city, you’ll have a great view of the starting sailboats from the waterfront (e.g., Praça do Povo).
Increased Demand for Porto Santo Ferries
The ferry operator, Porto Santo Line, has added several extra sailings for August due to huge demand. If you are planning a trip, book your tickets as far in advance as possible online, as available spots are disappearing quickly.