Parque Ecológico do Funchal – A Nature Reserve Above the City
The Parque Ecológico do Funchal is a significant nature reserve located above Funchal, in the municipality of Monte, at altitudes ranging from 470 to 1,818 meters.
Covering an area of approximately 10,000 hectares, the park was officially established in 1994.
Its southern boundary is marked by the confluence of Ribeiro do Pisão with Levada de Santa Luzia, while its northern border reaches up to Pico do Areeiro.
To the west, the park extends to the Ribeira de Santa Luzia, and its eastern edge is defined by Regional Road 103 (between Ribeira das Cales and Poiso) and Regional Road 202 (between Poiso and Pico do Areeiro).
The park’s main objective is to protect and restore Madeira’s natural ecosystems, particularly its native flora and fauna. As an important bird conservation area and a habitat for numerous endemic species, the Parque Ecológico plays a crucial role in maintaining the island’s ecological diversity.
History
The area’s management began in 1918 when the city of Funchal acquired the Montado do Barreiro to secure the region’s water supply. Until today, the initiative still contributes to the public water system, especially in Monte.
Until 1927, the land was primarily used as pasture before afforestation efforts began. Over time, the protected area was expanded through additional land acquisitions.
However, during the Carnation Revolution in 1974, the so-called Montado da Câmara was illegally used for agriculture. This practice was halted in 1994, leading to the park’s official designation. At the same time, recreational areas were revitalized, and infrastructure was developed to support tourism and nature sports.
Wildfires
Unfortunately, the park was devastated by severe wildfires in 2010 and 2016, which destroyed large parts of its vegetation. Since then, intensive reforestation and conservation efforts have been underway to restore its original landscape.
Conservation & Environmental Education
“Nature is the only book that offers valuable content on every page.”
– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
The Parque Ecológico do Funchal plays a key role in environmental conservation and education on Madeira, thanks to its rich geological and biological diversity. Through various programs and activities, visitors are encouraged to participate in the preservation of this unique ecosystem.
In addition to reintroducing endangered species and controlling invasive plants, a major focus is placed on reforestation with native vegetation.
The park’s landscape is characterized by resilient mountain shrubs. Mainly plant species that have adapted to the altitude and climate conditions.
Outdoor Activities
Visitors can begin their exploration at the Visitor Center, where audiovisual and interactive presentations provide insights into the park’s natural heritage.
School groups often take part in reforestation activities, while the adjacent tree nursery cultivates native (endemic) plants, which can also be visited.
The park offers numerous hiking trails for nature lovers, including the PR3 Vereda do Burro. It starts in the park and leads to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Following the PR4 (Levada do Barreiro) takes you past the fascinating Poço da Neve, a cultural heritage site resembling an igloo. Situated at around 1,630 meters, this structure was historically used to store snow and ice. The compacted ice remained frozen for several months before being transported by Neveiros (ice carriers) to Funchal overnight. Here it was used in hotels and hospitals.
Besides hiking, the park is also a hotspot for canyoning. The Ribeira das Cales route offers adventurers the chance to rappel down waterfalls and swim in crystal-clear pools while exploring the untouched wilderness.
Trail runners will also find exciting challenges here! Although there is a demanding height profile, runners are rewarded with stunning landscapes and panoramic views.
For a selection of trails, check out:
🔗 AllTrails – Parque Ecológico do Funchal
Visitor Center Information
📍 Location: Regional Road 103, No. 259, Ribeira das Cales, Monte, Funchal
📏 Area: ~1,000 ha | Altitude: 470 to 1,810 m
🏛 Ownership: Public municipal property
🎟 Entry: Free of charge
🕗 Opening Hours:
- South Gate: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Pico Alto Gate: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Closed in severe weather conditions
📞 Phone: +351 291 784 700
📧 Email: pecof@funchal.pt
🌐 Website: Parque Ecológico do Funchal
Conclusion
The perfect blend of nature, adventure, and environmental education makes the Parque Ecológico a truly unique destination.
The Parque Ecológico do Funchal can be reached by bus. Get on the 56 or 103 SIGA bus at the bus terminal next to the Almirante Reis car park and after a short ride you will arrive in front of the park’s information centre.
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