Discovering Santana
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Discovering Santana

Traditional houses, levada hikes, and cable car rides

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €67

Day 1: Traditional Culture, Cable Car & Mountain Views

A comprehensive one-day exploration of Santana, focusing on its iconic thatched-roof houses, the scenic cable car ride, and the dramatic coastal cliffs at Rocha do Navio. This itinerary balances cultural immersion with breathtaking natural scenery.

  • 09:00

    Explore Traditional Santana Houses

    Start your day at the heart of Santana to admire the famous triangular, thatched-roof houses. These structures are symbols of Madeira's rural heritage. Visit the open-air museum area to see the interiors and learn about traditional farming life.

  • 10:30

    Santana Cable Car Ride

    Take the cable car (Teleférico) from Santana down to the coastal village of Seixal. This 10-minute ride offers stunning aerial views of the cliffs, the Atlantic Ocean, and the lush greenery below. It is a unique way to experience the island's topography.

  • 11:45

    Relax at Seixal Beach

    Upon arriving in Seixal, take a short walk to the famous black pebble beach. The contrast of the dark volcanic sand against the turquoise water is striking. It's a perfect spot for photos and a brief rest by the ocean.

  • 13:00

    Lunch at Serra e Mar

    Enjoy a traditional Madeiran lunch at Serra e Mar, a highly-rated local restaurant in Seixal. Try local specialties such as Espetada (beef skewers) or Fish Espetada, paired with local wine.

  • 14:30

    Rocha do Navio Viewpoint

    Drive or take a local taxi to Rocha do Navio, one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Madeira. The name means 'Ship Rock' due to the rock formation that resembles a ship. The panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the ocean below are unforgettable.

  • 16:30

    Madeira Theme Park (Optional)

    If you have energy left, visit the Madeira Theme Park located near the cable car station. It offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, including a replica of the traditional houses, a zoo, and amusement rides suitable for all ages.

  • 18:00

    Dinner at Sabores Santiago

    End your day with dinner at Sabores Santiago in Santana. This restaurant is known for its authentic Madeiran cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty meal to recharge after a day of exploration.

Meals: Lunch at Seixal (Serra e Mar) , Dinner at Santana (Sabores Santiago)

Where to stay: Santana has limited hotel options. Consider staying in a local guesthouse (Casa de Hóspedes) in Santana for an authentic experience, or in nearby São Vicente or Seixal for more modern amenities.

Getting around: A rental car is highly recommended for this itinerary to easily access Rocha do Navio and move between Seixal and Santana. Public buses are available but less frequent and may not reach all viewpoints efficiently.

Practical Information

Santana is best visited between April and October, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is lower, though the region remains lush and green year-round due to its microclimate. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the area offers dramatic scenery, but weather can shift rapidly in the mountains. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while summer offers the warmest days for hiking. Winter is cooler and wetter, making trails potentially slippery, though it is less crowded. Getting to Santana requires a car, as public transport is limited. The most practical approach is to rent a vehicle in Funchal or via the airport, as the drive takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The route involves winding mountain roads with steep cliffs, requiring cautious driving. Once in Santana, walking is the primary mode of transport for the village center, but a car is essential for accessing remote trails, viewpoints like Rocha do Navio, and the Madeira Theme Park. The Santana Cable Car provides a scenic alternative for ascending the mountain without the physical exertion of hiking. Accommodation options are limited to rural guesthouses and traditional houses, particularly in the village center or surrounding hills. Staying in Santana offers an authentic, quiet experience away from the tourist hubs of Funchal, but it requires self-sufficiency. For those preferring more amenities, staying in Funchal and day-tripping to Santana is a viable alternative, though it adds significant travel time. Budget-wise, Santana is moderately priced. Meals at local favorites like A Espiga or Sabores Santiago offer good value, with traditional dishes being affordable. Entrance fees for attractions like the Madeira Theme Park are standard for European parks. Costs for car rental and fuel should be factored in, as this is the most significant expense for independent travelers. Pack sturdy hiking boots for levada trails and laurel forest walks, as terrain can be uneven and muddy. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, due to unpredictable weather. Sunscreen and hats are necessary for high-altitude viewpoints. A reusable water bottle is recommended, as tap water is safe but carrying supplies is prudent for long hikes. Finally, respect the local culture by staying on marked trails to protect the fragile biosphere reserve environment.

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