Weather and Safety: Wind and Rain Restricting Hikes
Today’s forecast calls for strong winds and heavy rain. We advise exercising extreme caution, especially if you have planned hikes at higher altitudes.
- Who is affected? All tourists, particularly mountain hikers and air travelers.
- What does this mean in practice? Ridge hikes are dangerous today. Exposed coastal sections may be hit by strong wind gusts. Flights may be delayed or diverted.
- Our recommendation: Avoid the ridge hike from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo. Remember to pack a waterproof jacket. Monitor the latest flight schedule for your flight.
Trail and Levada Status: Key Routes Are Closed
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has reported several important closures on the most popular routes. Always check the official status before heading out.
Overview of Major Closures:
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro: The traverse between the peaks is IMPASSABLE. The trail is only open for a short 1.2 km section from Pico do Areeiro to the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint.
- PR 10 Levada do Furado: The entire route from Ribeiro Frio to Portela is COMPLETELY CLOSED due to a landslide.
- Other closures: PR 3 (Levada do Pico do Castelo), PR 1.3 (Encumeada), PR 7 (Moinho), and PR 20 (Jardim do Mar) are also out of service.
Recommendation: Given the weather and closures, consider safer alternatives at lower altitudes, such as the open PR 5 Vereda das Funduras trail.
Funchal Under Pressure: Expect Crowds and Heavy Traffic
Three large cruise ships are docked in the port today, bringing nearly 10,000 visitors to the capital. As a result, downtown Funchal is extremely busy.
- Who is affected? Anyone planning to visit Funchal.
- What does this mean in practice? Very heavy traffic, crowds around the port, at the Mercado dos Lavradores market, and long queues for the Monte cable car.
- Our recommendation: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, plan your visit to central Funchal for late afternoon (after 5:00 PM) when the ships begin to depart. A great alternative is to explore the island’s north coast today.
Driver Alert: ER222 Road Closure
Following Sunday’s rains, fallen trees and rocks have been reported on the ER222 regional road.
- Who is affected? Drivers heading to the west of the island, in the areas of Calheta and Prazeres.
- What does this mean in practice? The section between the junction for Ribeira Funda (Estreito da Calheta) and Ribeira Funda (Prazeres) is closed.
- Our recommendation: Use the Via Expresso (VE3) expressway to travel to this area.
Activity Tip: When the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate
If the wind and rain have disrupted your plans, consider a cultural experience. As part of a concert series by the arts school, musical performances are taking place in Funchal tonight, which could be a wonderful way to end a challenging day.