The Vereda da Encumeada (PR 1.3) reopens, partially, starting today, almost two years after it was closed following the major fire of August 2024.
The section between Pico Ruivo and Boca das Torrinhas will now be open, while the segment between Boca das Torrinhas and Boca da Encumeada will remain closed. This partial reopening offers hikers reaching the island's highest point two additional exit options, allowing them to continue to either Curral das Freiras or Lombo do Urzal, both accessible via PR 2 Vereda do Urzal.
Several improvements have been made to the reopening section, including clearing small landslides, stabilizing the path, installing treated wooden steps, and replacing protective railings. The surrounding vegetation, once lush and composed mainly of endemic and native species, was decimated by flames in August 2024, with the impact visible in the landscape.
