Discover the world's most iconic sights and landmarks. From ancient wonders to modern marvels, explore must-see attractions that define destinations across the globe. Find historical monuments, architectural masterpieces, and natural wonders that capture the essence of each place.

Santana is a town located on the island of Madeira in Portugal. It is known for its traditional, thatched-roof houses, many of which are now used as museums and cultural centers. The town is located in a valley surrounded by the island's high peaks and is home to the famous Santana Folklore Museum, which showcases the island's rich cultural heritage and history.

One of the main attractions of the town is the nearby Madeira Theme Park, which offers a variety of rides and activities for visitors of all ages. The park also features a botanical garden with a collection of exotic plants from around the world.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the surrounding hills offer a range of hiking and cycling trails, providing stunning views of the island's rugged coastline and lush countryside. Additionally, the nearby beaches of Calheta and Jardim do Mar are popular for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.



Santana Madeira

Portugal

Madeira International Airport Cristiano Ronaldo

Porto Santo Airport

Funchal

Madeira

Levada Caldeirão Verde is a popular hiking trail located in the island of Madeira, Portugal. It's known for its natural beauty, including stunning waterfalls and lush vegetation.

The hike starts in the town of Santana and continues for about 8 kilometers (5 miles) along a narrow path carved into the mountainside. The path follows the course of a levada, which is a traditional irrigation channel used in Madeira for centuries. As you walk, you'll see lush forests, small farms, and terraced hillsides.

The highlight of the trail is the Caldeirão Verde waterfall, which cascades down a sheer rock face and into a deep pool. To reach the waterfall, hikers must pass through a long tunnel that was blasted out of the rock by hand. The tunnel is narrow and can be quite dark, so bring a flashlight.

The Levada Caldeirão Verde trail is considered moderately difficult and takes about 4 hours to complete round trip. It's best to start early in the day to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The trail is well marked and maintained, but can be narrow and steep in places, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some uphill climbing.

Levada Caldeirao Verde

Pico do Areeiro is the third-highest peak on the Portuguese island of Madeira, located in the central mountain range of the island. It stands at 1,818 meters (5,965 feet) tall and is easily accessible by car, bus, or foot. The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the coastline.

There are several hiking trails that lead to the summit of Pico do Areeiro, including a popular one that starts from the nearby town of Pico do Arieiro. The trail is well-marked and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. It is a challenging hike with steep ascents and descents, but the stunning views along the way make it well worth the effort.

Pico do Areeiro

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located in the Monte district of Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. It was originally created in the 18th century as a private garden for the British consul, but was later transformed into the magnificent public park it is today by a Portuguese millionaire in the 20th century.

The Monte Palace features stunning views of the city of Funchal and the ocean, and is home to a collection of exotic plants and trees from all over the world, as well as numerous fountains, lakes, and sculptures. The garden also houses a small museum featuring African and Indo-Portuguese art, including a collection of Zimbabwean stone sculptures.

One of the most unique features of the Monte Palace is its collection of tile panels, with over 1,000 pieces from the 15th to the 20th century. The panels depict historical events, landscapes, and scenes from daily life in Portugal, and are a remarkable display of the country's art and cultural heritage.

Monte Palace

Carros de cesto, also known as "Monte Toboggan" or "Toboggan Ride," are a traditional and unique mode of transportation in the city of Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. They are a popular tourist attraction and a fun way to experience the city's steep streets and scenic views.

The carros de cesto are wicker sleds with wooden runners, and they are used to transport passengers downhill from the village of Monte to Funchal, the capital of Madeira. The sleds are operated by two carreiros (drivers) dressed in traditional white clothing and straw hats, who skillfully guide the sleds using ropes and their feet.

The ride starts at the top of Monte, a picturesque village located approximately 550 meters (1804 feet) above sea level. Passengers board the sleds, sitting on comfortable cushions, and are then swiftly descended along narrow, winding streets for about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).

During the thrilling ride, the carreiros control the speed and direction of the sleds, providing a safe and exciting experience for the passengers. The ride lasts for a few minutes, depending on the speed and conditions of the road.

The carros de cesto have a fascinating history that dates back to the early 19th century when they were used as a practical means of transportation for locals and goods between Monte and Funchal. Over time, they evolved into a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Madeira's unique cultural heritage.

Today, the carros de cesto are primarily used for tourism, and they have become a beloved tradition in Funchal. Many visitors come to experience this thrilling ride and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean as they descend.

The carros de cesto can be found near the Nossa Senhora do Monte Church in Monte, where passengers board the sleds. At the end of the ride, visitors can take photos with the carreiros and purchase souvenirs to commemorate their adventurous experience.

As a part of Madeira's cultural heritage, the carros de cesto continue to charm and entertain both locals and tourists alike. They offer a unique and unforgettable way to explore Funchal's steep streets, enjoy the island's breathtaking views, and embrace the traditions of this beautiful island in Portugal.

Carros de cesto

Ponta de Sao Lourenco is a scenic peninsula located in the southeastern part of the island of Madeira, Portugal. It is known for its rugged beauty, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. The peninsula is a protected nature reserve, making it an ideal location for hiking, bird-watching, and swimming.

Visitors to Ponta de Sao Lourenco can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from its scenic cliffs, as well as exploring the peninsula's unique landscapes and beaches. There are several hiking trails that lead to different viewpoints and beaches, offering a chance to see the island's diverse flora and fauna up close.

The clear waters around Ponta de Sao Lourenco are also a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, and there are several companies that offer guided tours of the area, including boat trips and underwater adventures.

Explore Near Santana Madeira

Nearby Attractions & Places to Visit

Nearby Cities Worth Exploring

Airports Near Santana Madeira

Account

Explore

Discover

Support

Legal