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We've compiled the best of the best in Santana - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This tiny cable car takes visitors down to the nature reserve of Fajã da Rocha do Navio, tucked away a stone's throw from the shore. The five-minute trip—descending at a sharp incline towards the crashing waves—was intended to help local farmers access their plantations. Today it's more for visitors looking to explore a part of the coastline that is otherwise only accessible by boat. At the bottom there are verdant vineyards and lush banana plantations.
About 5 km (3 miles) west of Santana is a detour where the road quickly turns into a rough mountain track. Along a trail that passes by gorse bushes, the route leads into a wonderful forest. There are picnic tables and restrooms at the thatched-roof Casa das Queimadas, which is used by forest rangers. This marks the start of a great walk to Caldeirão Verde, a three- to four-hour round-trip hike to a dramatic waterfall.
Popular with families, the Parque Temático da Madeira features educational and just-for-fun activities set amid 17 acres of landscaped grounds. The term "theme park" is perhaps an overstatement, as the attractions are pretty tame. There's a playground, boating lake, miniature train, and a craft village demonstrating carving and weaving.
Five kilometers (3 miles) west of Santana is a detour where the road quickly turns into a rough mountain track. Along a trail that passes by gorse bushes, hydrangeas, and wildflowers, the route leads right into a wonderful forest. There are picnic tables and toilet facilities at the thatched-roof Casa das Queimadas, which is used by forest rangers. This marks the start of a great levada walk to Caldeirão Verde, a three- to four-hour round-trip hike to a dramatic waterfall.
