PR5 Madeira: Vereda das Funduras route guide

The trail in three sentences

PR5 is an official 8.7km linear route from Portela to Maroços, estimated at 3 hours and rated moderate. Its figures and open status were checked on 14 August 2026; confirm them again on the live Visit Madeira hiking list before reserving or travelling.

Where it starts: Portela, ends in Maroços

The route is linear. Use the current IFCN record for the official start, finish, and signed access near Portela and Maroços. From Ponta do Sol it is an east-island day; check traffic, parking, and transport at both ends instead of relying on a fixed time or permanent café claim.

Do not convert a linear official route into an improvised out-and-back because an old article suggests it. Choose an officially open route whose signed endpoints and return transport fit the day.

What you see

The official route passes through east-Madeira forest and descends toward Maroços. Use current signs for viewpoints, junctions, and the final approach. Respect farm plots, homes, and private land near the finish.

After the hike

For food after the route, check current venues and transport near the actual finish. Do not assume a café, full menu, or timed connection will be available.

When to go

Check rain, wind, temperature, route status, road conditions, and daylight for the actual day. A month label does not guarantee that the forest is dry, the view is clear, or the route is open.

The best time to visit Madeira breakdown has the broader month-by-month picture.

FAQ

Is PR5 a loop? No. The official route is point-to-point from Portela to Maroços. Do not turn it into an unsigned out-and-back; arrange the linear return or choose another official route.

How does PR5 compare to PR18? PR18 Levada do Rei is a flat levada walk on the north coast that ends at a waterfall. PR5 is an east-end forest walk that finishes among farm terraces. PR18 has a waterfall and a wider levada, while PR5 combines forest, viewpoints, and terraces.

Is PR5 family-friendly? Age alone does not determine suitability. Compare the official length, elevation, surface, weather, and linear transport with the child’s experience; do not use an unofficial shortened route as a substitute.

Do I need a torch? No. PR5 has no tunnels. Daylight all the way.

Can I bring a dog? Check the current IFCN and protected-area rules before bringing an animal. Carry water and do not let an animal drink from or enter the levada channel.

Is there phone signal? Coverage can vary. Carry the route and reservation offline and do not depend on a particular signal point.

What’s the climb like? Use the current official elevation profile rather than an old minute-by-minute account. The route is rated moderate and covers 8.7km in the Portela-to-Maroços direction.

A longer hiking stay

A longer stay gives more room to choose suitable weather and arrange the linear route. It does not guarantee an empty forest, restaurant table, or sunset drive.

Banana House is a year-round, seven-room coliving in Ponta do Sol, normally designed around stays of one month or longer. Every room has a real desk and chair, and the house has 200+ Mbps fibre plus additional work areas. See the rooms and current monthly options, or browse the Madeira hiking guide for other routes.