Mountains and Hiking Trails: Warning for PR1 Closure
The most important news for all hiking enthusiasts is the current status of the iconic ridgeline trail, PR1 Vereda do Areeiro. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) reports that the trail is only partially open.
- Who is affected? All hikers planning the trek between Madeira’s highest peaks, Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo.
- What does this mean in practice? The section from Pico do Areeiro to the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint is open, but you must return the same way. The connecting path over Pico das Torres to Pico Ruivo remains closed. Therefore, a full through-hike is not possible.
- What do we recommend? To reach the highest peak, Pico Ruivo (1862 m), use the alternative and fully open route PR 1.2 from Achada do Teixeira. Before hiking any of the paid trails, be sure to verify registration requirements and fee payments on the official Simplifica Madeira portal.
Weather: South for Swimming, North Requires a Jacket
According to Portuguese meteorologists, Madeira is experiencing a day of two halves. While the south of the island will enjoy summer-like conditions, the weather in the mountains and the north can be variable.
- Who is affected? All visitors to the island, whether planning a trip to the sea or the mountains.
- What does this mean in practice? On the south coast (Funchal, Calheta, Ponta do Sol), expect pleasant temperatures up to 26°C and calm seas with waves under one meter. The water temperature is a lovely 23–24°C. In contrast, the north coast and higher elevations may experience showers and fog.
- What do we recommend? The day is ideal for swimming and sunbathing in the south. If you are heading for a hike in the mountains or to the north, pack a light waterproof jacket and be prepared for reduced visibility.
Cheap but decent
Holidays Madeira
São Vicente
Adults-only guest house in a historic São Vicente building, free parking, volcanic caves 14 min walk. Bathrooms are shared.
Cheap but decent
Estalagem Estrela
Estrela
Small inn in Estrela with private bathrooms, balconies, mountain views and free parking. Pet friendly, but Funchal marina is 9 km away.
Cheap but decent
Oceanview room
Ponta Delgada
Room with sea-view terrace on the quiet north coast, shared kitchen, washing machine and free parking. Airport is 40 km away.
Cheap but decent
Habitación santo antonio
Estrela
Simple room above Funchal in Estrela with private bathroom, mountain view and free parking. The marina is 9 km away, so bring a car.
Cheap but decent
Casa da Montanha
Salão
Homestay in the Salão hills, 5 km from the Porto Moniz pools, kitchen and free parking. The bathroom is shared.
Cheap but decent
Narciso's House
São Vicente
Simple São Vicente guest house, volcanic caves 7 min walk, kitchen and free parking. Some rooms only have a shared bathroom.
Cheap but decent
Casa do Arco
Arco da Calheta
Homestay in Arco da Calheta with sun terrace, shared kitchen and free parking. Nearest beach 1,8 km downhill, airport 48 km.
Cheap but decent
Porto Santo Destination
Porto Santo
Hostel 4 min from Porto Santo's sand beach, breakfast and free parking included. At this price it is two dorm beds, not a private room.
Practical Info: Tourist Tax and Funchal Traffic
Besides the weather and trail conditions, it’s good to be aware of two practical matters that may affect your stay and travel around the island.
Tourist Tax in Santa Cruz
- Who is affected? Tourists staying in the Santa Cruz area, which includes the popular resorts of Caniço and Garajau.
- What does this mean in practice? The local council is discussing changes to the eco-tax (Eco Taxa), which is added to the cost of accommodation.
- What do we recommend? To avoid misunderstandings when paying, verify the current tax amount directly with your accommodation provider.
Traffic in Funchal
- Who is affected? Drivers and public transport users traveling through Funchal.
- What does this mean in practice? Authorities have presented a plan to modify the Viveiros traffic junction, one of the main exits from the expressway into the city center. Traffic may be heavier here during rush hours.
- What do we recommend? If you are driving through this area in the morning (approx. 8:00–9:30 AM) or afternoon (5:00–6:30 PM), expect possible delays.
Culture and Events: Sports and Rally Preparations
Madeira is also alive with social and sporting events. Today in Funchal, you can visit the international Racquet Sports Slice Cup. For motorsport fans, it’s important to know that the iconic Rali Madeira Legend is approaching (October 23rd and 24th). During the event, expect temporary closures on some mountain roads.