Top Santa Cruz Art & Culture

Discover the traditional houses of Santana on a full-day tour from Funchal. Admire the unique charm and beauty of the region's iconic houses, and see the third-highest mountain in Madeira, Pico do Areeiro. Leave Funchal and first head to Pico do Areeiro at 1818 meters above sea level. On the way down to Santana, make a brief stop at Ribeiro Frio to visit the trout hatchery, surrounded by a beautiful garden with rare trees and endemic plants of the island (entrance not included). Discover Madeira's Laurisilva Forest in Ribeiro Frio, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. In Santana, see the typical houses of the region. Take a lunch break here. On the way back to Funchal, drive along the stunning North Coast and stop in Porto da Cruz, from where you can enjoy the view of the North Coast and the impressive rock formation Penha d'Águia. Return to the hotel via Ponta de São Lourenço with its beautiful, lunar-like landscapes.

Discover the untouched beauty of Madeira’s eastern coast on a guided 5 km levada walk that combines nature, history, and local flavors. Follow the island’s iconic irrigation channels through lush valleys and volcanic landscapes, where every turn reveals sweeping views of the Atlantic and the dramatic cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights into Madeira’s unique levada system, its rich cultural heritage, and the traditions that shaped this island paradise. Along the way, enjoy tranquil paths surrounded by endemic flora and the picturesque fishing village of Caniçal. To finish your journey, indulge in a taste of Madeira’s soul: a freshly made poncha, the traditional drink crafted from local rum, honey, and citrus. It’s the perfect toast to an unforgettable experience blending nature and culture. Join us for a scenic escape that captures the essence of Madeira, authentic, breathtaking, and full of flavor.

Discover the charm of Câmara de Lobos, a traditional fishing village tucked into a scenic bay. Climb Pico da Torre for panoramic views over the Atlantic, then soar to Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, where the ocean stretches out beneath your feet. The journey continues along the beautiful north coast, passing Ribeira Brava and the Véu da Noiva waterfall, with a refreshing stop at Porto Moniz’s natural pools and a scenic oceanfront lunch. Ascending to Paul da Serra, the island’s largest plateau, brings a sense of tranquility. The tour ends in Calheta, just in time for a golden sunset over the sea, with every turn offering breathtaking views, making it an unforgettable experience!

This is a walk unlike any other. Frequently described as the most unforgettable hike in Madeira, this experience stays with travelers long after it ends. Embark on a hike through the valley of the western plateau, and marvel at the rock pools and waterfalls that have been carved over millions of years by rushing waters on their way to the sea. As you ascend the valley, experience a diversity of hiking terrain. Walk along the forest, and from the flatness of the levadas to the slopes of the mountain trails that lead to the oldest levada in the west of the island. In the summertime, bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear and invigorating mountain waters. This is an unforgettable experience into the heart of Madeira’s wild beauty!