Santana

A charming northern village famous for its traditional A-frame thatched houses painted in bright colors, creating one of the island's most photogenic settlements. The village offers authentic rural Madeiran culture, local crafts, and access to beautiful coastal and mountain landscapes.

Things to do

• Photograph the A-Frame Houses — Walk through the village center to capture the iconic brightly painted triangular thatched houses that define Santana's UNESCO-recognized architecture.
• Visit Casas do Pico Museum — Tour the restored traditional A-frame house museum displaying period furnishings, tools, and everyday objects from 19th-century Madeiran rural life.
• Hike to Pico do Arieiro — Trek from Santana village toward Madeira's third-highest peak through laurel forests with stunning panoramic views of the northern coast.
• Explore Local Craft Shops — Browse artisan stalls and small shops selling hand-embroidered textiles, wickerwork baskets, and traditional Madeiran handicrafts made by local craftspeople.
• Walk the Levada Trail — Follow the Levada do Caldeirao Verde, a gentle irrigation canal walk through terraced gardens and forest, departing near Santana toward the emerald waterfall.
• Visit the Village Market — Visit early morning at the small market square to see locals selling fresh produce, tropical fruits, and regional specialties from surrounding farms.

Food to try

• Espetada — Grilled marinated beef skewers served on a stick, a traditional Madeiran specialty often cooked over wood fires and accompanied by local bread and garlic.
• Milho Frito — Fried cornmeal slices or croquettes, a simple rustic staple served hot at village restaurants and a favorite comfort food of rural Madeira.
• Scabbardfish with Sweet Potato — Local white fish caught from Madeiran waters paired with purple sweet potato, a traditional northern coastal dish reflecting both ocean and farm traditions.
• Honey Cake (Bolo de Mel) — A dense spiced cake made with honey, molasses, and dried fruits that is a signature Madeiran treat especially found in village bakeries and markets.
• Locally Caught Tuna Lunch — Fresh grilled ahi tuna or local white fish caught daily by fishermen and served in simple village restaurants with lemon and olive oil.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit Early for Best Light and Fewer Crowds — Arrive before 9 AM to photograph the houses in golden light and experience the village's authentic atmosphere before tour buses arrive in mid-morning.
• Ask Permission Before Photographing Houses — While the village is famous for its appearance, residents still appreciate tourists asking before photographing private homes, especially during early morning hours.
• Learn About Traditional A-Frame Construction — The steep thatched roofs and specific design evolved to withstand Madeira's heavy rainfall and strong winds; understanding this history adds depth to appreciation of the architecture.
• Support Local Artisans — Purchase directly from village craftspeople rather than tourist shops in other towns, as this sustains traditional skills and local livelihoods in Santana.