✅ North Coast Reopened, No Detours: VE2 Road is Open
Good news for everyone planning a trip to the northwest of the island today. The main VE2 expressway between São Vicente and Porto Moniz is fully operational again after yesterday’s landslide near Seixal. Special teams secured the slope and cleared all hazardous material last night.
- Who does this affect? All drivers and travelers heading to the volcanic pools in Porto Moniz, the beach in Seixal, or any other destinations in the northwest.
- What does this mean for you? The road is clear and safe. You no longer need to take the lengthy detours through the island’s interior.
- Our recommendation: Despite the reopening, drive with caution in this section. If you are planning a trip to the north next week (August 24–28), be prepared for possible minor delays due to ongoing geological surveys in the landslide area.
🌦️ Weather: Sun in the South, Pack a Raincoat for the Mountains
Today’s forecast clearly divides the island into two parts. While the south and Funchal will enjoy partly cloudy skies with pleasant temperatures, the north coast and central mountains can expect overcast conditions and light showers, especially in the morning. The sea temperature is a wonderful 23–25°C.
- Who does this affect? All tourists planning any outdoor activities.
- What does this mean for you? Summer clothing is sufficient for the beaches and towns in the south. For hikes in the mountains and on the north coast, a waterproof jacket and a warmer layer are essential. Trails can be slippery after rain, and fog may reduce visibility.
- Our recommendation: If you’re heading for a mountain trek, start as early as possible and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Exploring Funchal or swimming in the south are ideal choices for today.
🥾 Trail Status: Important Alert for PR1 (One-Way) & Mandatory Registration
The Madeira Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has issued key information for all hiking enthusiasts. Before you set out on a trek, check the current conditions and regulations.
PR 1: Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo
- Status: Open, but with a critical restriction.
- What does this mean for you? The trail is one-way only on the section from the Pedra Rija viewpoint to the summit of Pico Ruivo. It is not possible to return the same way to Pico do Areeiro. You must continue along the PR 1.2 trail down to the Achada do Teixeira car park.
- Our recommendation: Arrange your transportation from Achada do Teixeira in advance (taxi, transfer, or bus). Without pre-arranged transport, you will not be able to get back to your car from the end of the hike.
Other Popular Trails
- PR 10 (Levada do Furado): Fully open and passable after reconstruction.
- PR 7 (Levada do Moinho): Remains closed.
Important: Registration and Fees
Remember that for non-residents, online registration and payment of a fee via the SIMplifica portal are mandatory for access to all official PR trails. The cost is €4.50 per person/day for most trails, and the fee for the complete PR1 traverse is €10.50.
🎉 Evening Tip: Funchal Celebrations and Free International Folklore Festival
Funchal is celebrating the 518th anniversary of its charter as a city today, and you can be part of it! The highlight of the celebrations is the gala evening of the “Funchal Folk – Arraial do Mundo” international folklore festival.
- Who is this for? Anyone in Funchal this evening who enjoys music, dance, and vibrant culture.
- What’s happening? Today at 9:00 PM in the Municipal Garden (Jardim Municipal), troupes from 9 different countries, including Slovakia, Poland, and Brazil, will perform. Admission is completely free.
- Our recommendation: Arrive a little early to get a good spot. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience an authentic festive atmosphere in the open air.
💶 Practical Info: Funchal Plans to Increase Tourist Tax
The city of Funchal has announced its intention to increase the tourist tax, which is paid for each night spent in accommodation. However, the entire approval process will take 6 to 9 months.
- Who does this affect? Tourists planning a trip to Madeira in mid-2027 or later.
- What does this mean for you? For current visitors and those coming to the island in the next few months, nothing changes. The current fee of €2 per night (for a maximum of 7 nights) still applies.