Hiking Trails (PR): Important Changes and Fees
If you are heading into the mountains today, pay close attention to key information from the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN). The biggest update concerns the most popular trail between the island’s highest peaks.
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo): The trail is open, but the section between the Pedra Rija viewpoint and the summit of Pico Ruivo is now strictly one-way. Officially, you can only hike in the direction from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo. To return, you must use the PR 1.2 trail to Achada do Teixeira. The eastern ridge via Pico das Torres is permanently closed. Only the western route through the tunnels is open.
- Fees and Registration: Remember that for non-residents, online registration and payment via the SIMplifica portal are required for official PR trails. The fee for PR 1 is €10.50, while other trails are typically €4.50. Book well in advance.
- Other Trails: The good news is that PR 10 Levada do Furado is fully open after renovations. Conversely, on the PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail, only the section to the main waterfall is open; the continuation to Caldeirão do Inferno remains closed.
Practical Impact: The Areeiro – Ruivo – Areeiro round trip is no longer possible. You must plan the logistics for your return from Achada do Teixeira (taxi, transfer). Respect the one-way system to avoid fines and dangerous situations on the narrow paths.
Weather: Cooler and Cloudy in the Mountains, Sunny in the South
According to meteorologists, a mostly cloudy day is expected today. On the north coast and at higher altitudes, light showers and fog may occur. In contrast, the south coast, including Funchal, will have more stable weather suitable for swimming – the ocean temperature is a pleasant 24–25 °C.
Recommendation: If you are planning a mountain hike (Pico do Areeiro, Rabaçal), pack a waterproof jacket and a warmer layer. Visibility may be reduced in the mountains. For beach activities, choose the south of the island.
Events and Culture: Folklore, Music, and the Upcoming Wine Festival
Madeira is alive with culture today. There are several great opportunities to spend your evening.
- Funchal Folk Festival: As part of the international folklore festival, the main dance performances by groups from around the world (including Slovakia, Brazil, and Croatia) will take place tonight from 21:00 (9:00 PM). The event is held outdoors near the church in the Imaculado Coração de Maria district of Funchal. Admission is free.
- Concertos L in Ponta do Sol: If you are looking for a more intimate and alternative experience, the independent music festival Concertos L starts today at 22:00 (10:00 PM) in the picturesque town of Ponta do Sol. Artist Kaito Winse from Burkina Faso will perform at the Estalagem da Ponta do Sol hotel.
- Wine Festival (Festa do Vinho): Mark your calendars! One of the biggest events of the year has been officially announced. The Wine Festival will run from August 23rd to September 13th. You can look forward to a wine zone at Praça do Povo in Funchal and traditional harvest celebrations in villages across the island.
- CANCELLED: Festa da Uva in Porto da Cruz: Please note, if you were planning to visit the traditional August grape festival in Porto da Cruz, it has been cancelled this year due to financial issues.
Traffic: Increased Caution Near the Airport
This morning, a collision between a motorcycle and a car occurred on the VR1 expressway near the airport, causing traffic delays and congestion. Even after the accident has been cleared, exercise extreme caution in this area.
Advice for Drivers: Allow extra time when traveling to or from the airport. Traffic is very heavy in August, and increased attention is required on the exits and roundabouts around Santa Cruz.