Overview
Santana is a quiet hilltop town on Madeira's north coast that rewards visitors with the island's most distinctive architectural symbol: the Casas de Colmo, triangular thatched-roof cottages painted in vivid colors. The surrounding district holds UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve status, offering excellent levada (irrigation channel) hiking trails through laurisilva forest.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
Portugal uses Type F (Schuko) power plugs at 230V. WiFi available at hotels and the tourist office.
Money
Portugal uses the euro (€). ATMs available in town. Credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.
Transport
Regional buses connect Santana to Funchal (approx. 40 min). Car rental recommended for accessing viewpoints and trailheads independently.
Weather
The north coast plateau location means Santana can be cooler and wetter than southern resorts. Summer is warm and dry; winter mild with fewer rainy days in this sheltered spot.