⛰️ Hiking Trail Status: The Mountains Show Their Power
Spring weather, with overnight frost and rain, has made its impact felt today, especially at higher altitudes. The most important news of the day concerns all mountain hiking enthusiasts.
PR 1 (Vereda do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo) – Temporarily CLOSED
- Who is affected? All hikers who planned to traverse the route between Madeira’s third and first highest peaks.
- What does this mean? The trail has been officially closed for safety reasons (overnight frost, minor rockfall) by the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN). Do not attempt to access the trail – there is a risk of danger from icy rocks and potentially loose safety cables.
- What do we recommend? If you still want to summit Pico Ruivo (1862m), choose the safer, open alternative today: the PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo trail, which starts from the car park at Achada do Teixeira. It is shorter, less demanding, and offers equally breathtaking views from the top.
Other Levadas and Trails
Most other popular trails, such as PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes, remain open. However, after the recent rain, expect muddy sections and slippery surfaces in some areas. Be sure to wear sturdy, waterproof, non-slip footwear.
🚗 Island Transportation: Patience Required for Pilots and Drivers
Strong winds and the aftermath of the rain are affecting both air and ground transportation today. It’s wise to factor this into your travel plans.
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
- Who is affected? Passengers arriving in or departing from Madeira today.
- What does this mean? Strong wind gusts have been complicating landings since this morning. Some flights have been delayed or temporarily diverted. Although the wind is expected to weaken this afternoon, delays may still affect evening flights.
- What do we recommend? Regularly check your flight status via your airline’s app or on the airport’s website. Please be patient.
ER101 Coastal Road near Ponta do Sol
- Who is affected? Drivers traveling along the south coast between Ponta do Sol and Calheta.
- What does this mean? Due to a small rockfall, traffic on the old ER101 coastal road has been reduced to a single lane controlled by traffic lights. Expect delays of 15–20 minutes.
- What do we recommend? For a smooth and fast journey, use the main highway (Via Expresso, VE3), which runs parallel inland through tunnels and is fully open.
Ferry to Porto Santo
Good news for those heading to the neighboring island. After yesterday’s cancellations due to high waves, the “Lobo Marinho” ferry is operating again today according to its standard schedule. The sea is still a bit choppy, but sailings are proceeding.
🌸 Life in Funchal: Preparations for Easter
While nature tests the island’s infrastructure, the capital city is calmly preparing for the holidays.
- Who is affected? Visitors to Funchal city center.
- What does this mean? The setup for the traditional Easter markets has begun on the main promenade, Avenida Arriaga. You may encounter minor restrictions for pedestrians and movement of equipment.
- What do we recommend? Don’t be discouraged. All shops, restaurants, and cafes in the city center are open as usual. A walk through Funchal is an ideal and safe alternative to mountain excursions today.