Posted on June 11, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

Drive Distance: 42km from Funchal

Funchal is well known for its high standards of accommodation and modern, luxurious resorts, but those who want to see the  ‘typical’ side of Madeira should get their red pen out and start scribbling circles and stars around Santana.

Santana’s iconic thatched cottages are charm personified.  If you’re after a picture postcard snapshot of  Madeira, look no further than the town’s brightly painted triangular shaped houses.  

The cute little dwellings were once the norm for all Madeirans, but only really survive in Santana these days.

Many of the houses are preserved yet unoccupied today, with some serving as museums and shops. Wandering around the Toblerone-style neighbourhoods, it is difficult not to picture them forming the backdrop to a Hansel and Gretel style fairytale or even Heidi popping out the front door to round up some goats.

Santana takes its name from the Portuguese for “Saint Anne”.  It is situated to the north of the Island of Madeira, close to the coast.  The village’s handicrafts make for perfect gifts and souvenirs. Local linen, wool, stone and wood products are all good investments.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the surrounding countryside is well worth exploring.  Santana’s climate is somewhat more changeable than other parts of the island, but the clean, fresh air means outdoor activities are popular.  Wholesome pursuits on offer include the levada (water courses), walking trails such as Queimadas to Caldeirão Verde or Caldeirão do Inferno.  From here, it’s also possible to reach Homem em Pé rock and get to the highest point on Madeira Island, Pico Ruivo.

How to get to Santana from Funchal: Head northwest on the R103 and follow signposts for Santana.

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