Madeira's Rustic Magic

Hey Lykkers! Imagine walking through a village where every house looks like a colorful little tent made from bright wood and topped with a thick straw roof.

These are the palheiros, Santana's traditional homes that have been built using local wood, stone, and straw for hundreds of years.

Their steep roofs are designed to protect against Madeira's mountain rains and winds, and their bold red, white, and blue colors make them pop against the lush green backdrop.

These houses aren't just cute—they're living history. You can actually visit several of them in the Santana Traditional House Park, right in the village center. Some of these homes have been preserved as museums or artisan workshops where you can see local crafts come to life. Trust me, it's like stepping back in time.

Estimated cost to visit the traditional houses: About $3–$5 USD (cost may vary).

How to Get to Santana

Santana is roughly 45 to 50 minutes from Madeira's capital, Funchal, and getting there is part of the adventure.

By Car: Renting a car is the most flexible option. You'll get to enjoy sweeping views of Madeira's mountains and coastline on your way.

Estimated cost: Car rentals usually run between $40–$70 USD per day (cost may vary).

What to See and Do in Santana

1. Explore the Santana Old House

Don't just snap photos—step inside these beautifully preserved homes at the village museum to get a feel for how life used to be in Madeira's countryside.

Santana Old House

2. Hike the Levada do Caldeirão Verde

This legendary levada walk takes you through dense forests, misty tunnels, and ends at an enchanting waterfall. It's one of Madeira's best hikes and perfect for nature lovers.

Cost: Free if self-guided; guided hikes range from $30–$50 USD (cost may vary).

3. Relax at Parque Florestal das Queimadas

A serene spot for picnics and walks. The forest feels magical when the morning mist rolls in, perfect for quiet reflection or photo ops.

Cost: Free entry.

Parque Florestal das Queimadas

4. Take the Cable Car to Rocha do Navio

For stunning cliff views, take the cable car ride down to the coast. The fresh sea air and rugged landscape make it unforgettable.

Cost: Around $6 USD round trip (cost may vary).

Where to Stay in Santana

Quinta do Furão Hotel

This elegant hotel offers breathtaking ocean and mountain views, cozy rooms, a pool, and a fantastic restaurant. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Estimated cost: $190–$300 USD per night (cost may vary).

Quinta do Furão Hotel

Hotel O Colmo

Right in the heart of Santana village, this simple yet comfortable hotel puts you close to the palheiros and local life. It's a budget-friendly pick with a warm atmosphere.

Estimated cost: $70–$120 USD per night (cost may vary).

Where to Eat in Santana

Restaurante Quinta do Furão

This cliffside restaurant, part of the hotel, serves up delicious Madeiran classics like espetada, fresh seafood, and bolo do caco (the famous garlic bread). All with epic views to match.

Estimated meal cost: $20–$40 USD per person (cost may vary).

Cantinho da Serra

A cozy local favorite with hearty dishes like grilled chorizo. It's all about big flavors and a friendly vibe here.

Estimated meal cost: $15–$30 USD per person (cost may vary).

Restaurante Cantinho da Serra

Final Thoughts

Santana is one of those rare destinations where every detail—the landscape, the architecture, the food—feels like it was made for slowing down and soaking it all in. The old traditional houses are the heart and soul of this village, and spending time here is like stepping into a colorful, cozy storybook.

If you want peace, history, and nature all wrapped up in one charming package, Santana should be at the top of your Madeira itinerary. Need help planning your trip or want suggestions for day hikes and local experiences? Just say the word, Lykkers—I'm here to help make it happen!