Santana sits on the north coast, hemmed in by mountains on three sides and the Atlantic on the fourth. It's where the island's signature triangular thatched houses (palheiros) still stand painted in primary colours, and where the road narrows and the tourists thin out. Below is the honest version of what's worth the drive.
See & do
Things to see & do in Santana
Eat & drink
Where to eat in Santana
Map
Santana on the map
Experiences
Tours near Santana
Free cancellation · run or hand-picked by us
Plan
One perfect day in Santana
Our local route — drive up, explore, eat, watch the sunset.
The thatched palheiros
Walk the village lanes to see the original triangular thatched houses — painted red, white and yellow, still used and maintained. The Parque Temático da Madeira is nearby if you're with children.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Take the levada trail from Queimadas into the laurisilva — a 3-hour return walk through UNESCO World Heritage forest to a hidden waterfall grotto. Bring a waterproof.
Miradouro do Pico das Pedras
A short detour to one of the best viewpoints on the north coast. On a clear afternoon you can see down to the sea and across to the central peaks.
Dinner back in Santana
Simple local cooking — thick vegetable soup, grilled fish, wine from the cooperative. Quieter and cheaper than anything you'll find in Funchal.
Photos
Santana in photos
Getting around
Getting around Santana
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Santana guides & articles
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