# 9 – Prazeres
Prazeres – The Village of Delight In Portuguese, „Prazeres“ means „joy“ or „delight.“ True to its name, the scenery here has the potential to evoke such emotions. This picturesque village is perched on a high plateau, and its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere transfers to visitors as they stroll through its charming streets. Everywhere you look, plants are blooming, and traditional stone houses nestle among vibrant green oases. Starting Point for Hikes The friendly village is also an excellent starting or ending point for hikes. Levada trails branch out in various directions. For instance, the Levada Nova heads west toward Ponta do Pargo or east toward Calheta. On this eastern section, the Levada Nova is also known as the Eucalyptus Levada due to its route through a forest of the same name. Hikers with strong knees might enjoy the short but steep descent to Paul do Mar (500 meters elevation drop over 2 kilometers / PR 19). This historic path was once used by farmers and traders to transport agricultural goods like meat and vegetables to Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar in exchange for freshly caught fish. The trail starts below the „Jardim Atlantico“ hotel and quickly winds its way downhill. Before the steep descent, take a moment at the Miradouro dos Prazeres for stunning views into the gorge and over the dramatic cliffs of the southwest coast. Once you reach the bottom, there is only one bus option to return to Funchal: Line 142, which departs Monday to Friday at 2:15 PM. Alternatively, taxi company contact numbers are listed in the travel guide Madeira by Bus. History The name of this parish traces back to a small chapel dedicated to „Our Lady of Prazeres.“ Initially part of the parish of Estreito da Calheta, Prazeres became independent on December 28, 1676. Quinta Pedagógica dos Prazeres Prazeres actively promotes the conservation of the local wildlife and rural environment. The Quinta Pedagógica is part of a project that cultivates native plant species to restore the region’s natural balance. Visitors can learn more about Madeira’s flora and fauna here. This church-owned estate features a small but impressive zoo, a fascinating herb garden, and a well-known tea house. Children, in particular, will enjoy seeing llamas, donkeys, goats, Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, peacocks, and ostriches up close. At the tea house, you can sample locally grown teas and jams, as well as award-winning liqueurs. The large apple press outside the church is used to produce the region’s tart and refreshing cider, which you can enjoy warm on cooler days at the tea house, spiced with a cinnamon stick to evoke the flavors of a winter market mulled wine. Agriculture In its early days, Prazeres was a vital hub for agricultural self-sufficiency. The village’s isolation fostered ingenuity among its residents, who worked hard to secure their livelihoods—a tradition that endures today in the area’s agricultural practices. Across from the church, at the corner of Caminho Lombo da Rocha, stand the ruins of an old butter factory, a testament to the village’s self-sustaining past. Unlike today, when dairy products are imported in high quality from the Azores, the village once maintained many more dairy cows to meet local needs. Prazeres’ relatively flat terrain and frequent mists make it ideal for farming, particularly fruits and vegetables. Local farmers sell their produce every Sunday at the Mercado Abastecedor dos Prazeres / Mercado dos Agricultores, a market hall at the southeastern end of the village. Gastronomy and Culinary Delights The local cuisine is another highlight, and Prazeres boasts numerous restaurants serving perfectly prepared traditional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In addition to cider and jams, Prazeres is famous for its espetada (meat skewers), often featured at village events. The meat is traditionally grilled on laurel branches, giving it a unique flavor. Village Church The village church, Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Neves („Our Lady of the Snow“), was built in the 18th century and is a significant landmark. Its unexpectedly beautiful interior offers a tranquil space for quiet reflection. Every year during the first weekend of August, the parish holds a grand festival in honor of its patron saint. Here, you can prepare your own espetada! Buy meat at one of the many stands and skewer it on a laurel branch. Then season it with salt and garlic, and grill it on communal barbecue pits. This lively and social tradition is a great way to connect with the locals. Culture in the Village In March, the unique Scarecrow Exhibition returns to Prazeres. (The exact date will be added to the events calendar on www.madeira-bus.com/westen once it’s announced.) The exhibition highlights how farmers historically used scarecrows to protect their crops from birds. Creative scarecrows can be found all over the village—along roadsides, in gardens, and particularly in the garden of the Quinta Pedagógica, where they compete in a contest on the opening day. Local artisans, artists, and youth groups pour enormous creativity into crafting these one-of-a-kind figures. Fortunately, the scarecrows remain on display throughout the year. Conclusion The name „Prazeres“ is often associated with the village’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Indeed, many visitors report experiencing a profound sense of peace and contentment here.
# 8 – Ribeira Brava
Ribeira Brava – At The Wild River The Historical Significance of Ribeira Brava Ribeira Brava is a small Portuguese town and municipality, located approximately 15 km from Funchal. After the settlement of Machico and Funchal by Madeira’s early explorers, the colonization extended westward, and Ribeira Brava became an independent parish in 1676. During these early settlement years, Ribeira Brava served as an important hub for trade. Its central location on the southern coast and its river connection enabled the transport of agricultural products from the mountainous interior. Notably, sugarcane and wine were loaded and exported from here. However, it wasn’t until 1904–1908 that a small dock and pier were constructed, carved into the eastern cliffs to provide access to the sea. An interesting aspect is the role of the river in naming the town: “Brava” means “wild,” referring to the unpredictable nature of the river, especially during the rainy season. The river was both a resource and a threat, as it would overflow and cause floods. Following the devastating floods of February 2010, the riverbed was corrected, reducing its potential for disaster—at least for now. Ribeira Brava Through the Ages Initially, agriculture was the main source of income in this parish. The fertile soils and favorable climate allowed for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, sugarcane, wine, bananas, and other exotic fruits. Over the centuries, Ribeira Brava has transformed from an agriculturally focused community into a charming coastal town that attracts both tourists and locals. Its unique blend of historical heritage, natural beauty, and modern infrastructure makes it a standout destination. Take a stroll through the historic old town, relax along the seaside promenade, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Madeira’s past. Located directly on the Atlantic Ocean, Ribeira Brava offers swimming opportunities and several excellent restaurants. The small municipal market, which operates daily, is also worth a visit. Highlights and Attractions Ribeira Brava has plenty to see and experience: Museu Etnográfico da Madeira This museum offers insights into the lives and traditions of Madeira’s residents, including basket weaving, winemaking, and traditional fishing. A must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.https://cultura.madeira.gov.pt/museu-etnografico-da-madeira Forte de São Bento da Ribeira Brava Originally built to protect the population from pirate attacks, this small fortress now houses a tourist information center offering helpful tips for visitors.Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 10:00 AM–3:30 PM, Sat 10:00 AM–12:30 PM Igreja de São Bento This 16th-century parish church is renowned for its ceramic mosaic of Our Lady of Fátima on its exterior wall. Built with baroque elements, the church features an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, goldsmith works, and gilded wood carvings. Farol da Ribeira Brava This small lighthouse is located at the eastern end of the promenade. Solar dos Herédias Now serving as the town hall and public garden, the Solar dos Herédias manor house was built in the late 18th century. In 1994, it was designated a monument of municipal interest due to its architectural details.The park-like garden offers a diverse range of botanical species. Since the 1980s, the Solar dos Herédias has been the seat of the city council. Miradouro de São Sebastião A viewpoint above the town offering spectacular views along the southwest coast. Maybe interesting too: Ribeira Brava once had a cinema located on Lagoa dos Herédias Street. It has since been converted into the city library, where an old film projector in the entrance area stands as a testament to this cinematic past. Festivals and Cuisine Traditional FestivalsA well-known festival in Ribeira Brava is the celebration of its patron saint, São Bento, typically held in March (dates for 2025 are not yet available). The colorful flower-filled processions make this event a highlight. The festivities begin with a church service, followed by a traditional procession through the flower-adorned streets, known as the Sermão da Bagaceira. Photography enthusiasts will love this event. Culinary HighlightsRibeira Brava is famous for its fresh seafood. Local specialties such as Bolo do Caco (Madeira’s iconic garlic bread) or Espada (black scabbardfish) paired with locally grown bananas and passion fruit sauce are a true delight.
# 7 – Ribeiro Frio
Ribeiro Frio – At the Cold Stream Ribeiro Frio means “cold stream”, referring to the cool, fresh mountain air and the numerous watercourses in this region. With its natural water sources, the village is an important hub in the historic irrigation system of levadas. Some of the oldest levadas in Madeira run through Ribeiro Frio, such as the Levada do Furado (built in the 18th century).Since then, these water channels have carried water from the rainy mountain regions to the drier and lower-lying regions, enabling the cultivation of sugar cane, bananas and wine. Without the artificial irrigation, agricultural use would be impossible and the fields would be infertile.Ribeiro Frio was and still is a good example of the traditional use of Madeira’s natural resources. The Forests around Ribeiro Frio The Laurisilva forest (laurel forest) around Ribeiro Frio has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Traditionally, the forests were also used for the extraction of wood and resin. Farmers collected the leaves of the trees (the so-called “Facho”) to use as animal feed and compost. Many of these forests were cut down for shipbuilding, especially in the 15th and 16th centuries. Ribeiro Frio is one of the regions where the original vegetation has been preserved. In the past, the locals used to make tools and household items from the wood in the surrounding forests. Today, this tradition has almost disappeared, but you can sometimes still find handmade woodwork in small souvenir stores. Today, the Laurisilva is considered one of the best examples of the Atlantic rainforest and attracts nature lovers from all over the world. The Trout Farm (Truticultura) The trout breeding station in Ribeiro Frio was built in the 1950s and still plays an important role in the breeding and conservation of rainbow trout (Truta Arco-Íris). Originally, the facility was used to stock the local rivers and levadas with fish in order to strengthen the local fish population. Today, the station is one of the main attractions for tourists. But also it offers insights into the historical use of the region’s natural resources. This makes the trout breeding station an authentic experience and tourist highlight. If you love fresh trout, Ribeiro Frio is of course the right place for you. The surrounding restaurants prepare tasty dishes from freshly caught trout. Levada Hike to Balcões The levada hike from Ribeiro Frio to Balcões is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on Madeira. From the parking lot in Ribeiro Frio to the viewpoint, it is only 1.5 kilometers through the dense laurel forest with diverse subtropical vegetation. Once you reach the Balcões viewpoint, you can enjoy a wide view over the Ribeira da Metade valley. On days with good visibility, you can see Pico do Areeiro, Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo. And the so-called Eagle’s Nest (Ninho da Manta) near Pico do Areeiro. The endemic finches will also be great fun, as they are only too happy to peck crumbs of bread and other delicacies from your outstretched hand. Transformation to a Tourist Destination Ribeiro Frio became a popular place for travelers in the early 20th century, when road construction made the region accessible for horse-drawn carriages and later for cars. Witness to this development is the “Antiga Casa de Chá” (old teahouse) which was built in 1932. You can see the ruin about 40 meters to the north from the start of the Levada do Furado. Today’s ruins are particularly interesting for fans of lost places … https://cultura.madeira.gov.pt/olhares-sobre-o-passado/3211-casa-de-ch%C3%A1-do-ribeiro-frio.html Insider Tip: Discover the Hidden Sides of Ribeiro Frio While most visitors only head for the Balcões viewing platform, there is more to discover for adventurous travelers. Follow the Levada do Furado to the remote forest area of Lamaceiros. There you will find a tranquil setting with spectacular views of the valley and the north coast of Madeira, far away from the tourist crowds. And if you want to take a piece of Madeira culture with you: Stop by the small stalls in the parking lot, where local artisans offer homemade liqueurs, jams and carvings. A souvenir with history! Conclusion Cool mountain air, lush greenery and the gentle lapping of streams – Ribeiro Frio combines everything a Madeira traveler’s heart desires. But this charming place is more than just a starting point for hikes or a tourist attraction. It tells stories of hard work and the close connection between man and nature. Whether you let yourself be enchanted by the shady hiking trails of the Laurissilva forests or marvel at the trout in the historic breeding station: Ribeiro Frio is a place that preserves the past but does not close itself off from the present.
# 6 – Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz – Mediterranean Feeling The History of Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, one of the oldest settlements in Madeira, was elevated to the status of a town in 1515. The name is derived from a wooden cross that Portuguese explorers erected on the beach. In the 16th century, Santa Cruz flourished as a center of sugar production, also known as “white gold”. The profitable industry attracted foreign investors, including Italian nobles, and strengthened Madeira’s trade links along the Portuguese sea routes. A customs office for the sugar trade underlined the importance of the town.Wealthy residents built brick-roofed and two-storey houses. Today’s town hall was one of the first buildings in this late Gothic style. After the decline of sugar production, the local economy shifted to agriculture, in particular the cultivation of wine and later bananas. On your walk through the center of Santa Cruz, you can walk over the ornate cobblestones (Calçada Portuguesa). Look at these traditional patterns and feel the history of the place! Take a short break in the city garden and enjoy the variety of flowers and trees. The Old Town of Santa Cruz (1)The main church Igreja Matriz de Santa Cruz was built in the 16th century. It is an important landmark of the city. It combines Gothic and Manueline architecture and its ornate interior design is a highlight for lovers of sacred architecture. (2)The Quinta do Revoredo was built in 1840 by the English Madeira wine merchant John Blandy as a summer residence by the sea. His grandson, the engineer Charles Frederick Raleigh Blandy, eventually settled here. He was a philanthropist and supported many families in the community. Together with his mother Mary Jane Wilson, he contributed to the restoration of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Santa Cruz hospital. In the last ten years of his life in the end of the 19th century, he devoted himself to painting watercolor landscapes of Madeira. These paintings are currently housed in the Natural History Museum in Funchal.His painting and photography studio was located in a room attached to the quinta, which is now the municipal library. At the western end of the garden is the old janitor’s house, which is now separated from the property. Art House Quinta do Revoredo The property was purchased by the city council in 1988, restored and converted to serve as a cultural center. It has large exhibition rooms, a kitchen, a documentation room, rooms for educational services and later a pleasant open-air auditorium was built right by the sea.The beautiful garden is traditionally paved with pebbles and is home to centuries-old endemic trees such as dragon trees (Dracaena draco), in addition to countless native and exotic plants. In it we find two sculptures: the “Florista” by the Peruvian sculptor Mário Agostinelli, who lives in Brazil, made of bronze in 1972, which was once located in the demolished Atlantis Madeira hotel, and a sculpture in two shades of stone by the sculptor António Rodrigues from 1997.In the garden we also find archaeological remains of the ruins of the Franciscan monastery of Nossa Senhora da Piedade, which were excavated before the construction of the airport began. The convent, which was located near what is now the western end of the airport runway, was founded in 1518 by the wealthy Italian sugar producer and merchant Urbano Lomelino, who settled in Santa Cruz at the end of the 15th century. Market Hall Mercado Municipal (3)The city is also known for the Mercado Municipal de Santa Cruz, where fresh local produce, artisan products and Madeira’s famous poncha are sold. The market hall was built in 1962 by the architect Luís Conceição Teixeira. He designed the building in a modernist architectural style that is considered unique in the district of Santa Cruz. There are also two ceramic plaques alluding to the typical activities of the region: Fishing and agriculture. Festa Santo Amaro Every year at the end of the Christmas season, the Santo Amaro festivities take place all over the island. Especially in Santa Cruz, where this festival is celebrated on a grand scale. Performances by well-known artists, food and drink stalls provide varied entertainment. Traditionally, this day ends the Christmas season in Madeira with the “kitchen sweep”. This day is known as the day to clear out the cupboards and dispose of the remaining Christmas treats and drinks. Groups go from house to house singing, equipped with traditional heath brooms, to collect the remaining Christmas treats. In the evening, the town is full of people enjoying this first religious festival and ending the Christmas celebrations with the day of Santo Amaro on the 15th.On the eve of Santo Amaro (January 12 in 2025) there are fireworks at midnight. Water and water sports Santa Cruz offers a pristine coastal landscape with the Piscinas Naturais de Santa Cruz and the Praia das Palmeiras beach. Both spots are easily accessible via the well-maintained promenade. Numerous benches invite you to sit and relax while watching the waves. The south coast of Madeira has ideal sea conditions for water sports of all kinds, as the sea here is comparatively calm and the swell is low (in contrast to the north side). From the promenade, you can relax and watch the windsurfers using the constant south-westerly winds for their sport. The International Airport Santa Cruz is located right next to the international airport, which was opened in 1964. The area between Machico and Santa Cruz was suitable for the construction of this facility due to the topographical conditions, as there was flat terrain close to the coast. And since Funchal is only 16 kilometers away, the decision was easy. The original runway was only 1,600 meters long and was considered one of the shortest in the world for commercial aircraft. This made take-offs and landings particularly difficult, especially in strong winds. In the 2000s, the runway was extended to 2,781 meters. To achieve this, an innovative construction on stilts was implemented, in which a large part of the runway protrudes
# 5 – Santo da Serra
Santo da Serra – England on Madeira Santo da Serra is located on a plateau at an altitude of 700 meters in the east of Madeira and is characterized by lush vegetation and a temperate climate. The altitude ensures pleasantly cool temperatures, which is particularly appreciated in the summer months. For this reason, many English people have built their country houses there. English Lifestyle The Quinta do Santo da Serra (Quinta da Junta), now a large park in the center of the village, is particularly well known. This historic estate was built at the end of the 19th century by the Blandy family in the English colonial style.A lush landscaped park with trees, some of which are of great botanical interest and come from different continents, has been created around the manor house.In one corner of the park there is a viewpoint with a panoramic view over the Ribeira de Machico valley, Ponta de São Lourenço and even Porto Santo on a clear day. There are wooden tables and benches in an open hut right next to this Miradouro dos Ingleses; locals often meet here for a hearty picnic.Visitors to the park can observe peacocks, fallow deer and horses in the animal enclosures. The Santo da Serra Golf Club is also firmly in English hands. The renowned golf course was designed by architect Robert Trent Jones Senior and offers 27 holes on an extensive area. It is the venue for the Madeira Island Open and attracts golfers from all over the world who enjoy the impressive 240° panorama of the Atlantic.The golf club’s restaurant is open to everyone and teatime on the terrace is an absolute must-do. Local Markets and Culture There are large areas of fruit and vegetable cultivation in the municipality and the local farmers supply many local restaurants with their products. Santo da Serra is known for its apples, from which the famous cider is made. The traditional Sunday market, where local produce such as fruit, vegetables, flowers and handicrafts are on sale, offers a colorful insight into rural life and Madeira’s culture. Here you can stock up on fresh food and also try the regional cider, which is absolutely comparable to Hessian “Äppelwoi”. History and Development The name of the municipality goes back to the patron saint, who is dedicated to Santo António da Serra. However, it is usually called “Santo da Serra”. The settlement of the parish began in the first quarter of the 16th century, but from the 17th century onwards there were territorial disputes between the parishes of Machico, Santa Cruz and Água de Pena. In 1852, some places in the parishes of Machico and Santo da Serra were incorporated into the parish of Santa Cruz by royal charter, which provoked considerable protests. As a result of a long dispute over the delimitation of their territory between the municipalities of Machico and Santa Cruz, Santo da Serra is the only municipality in Portugal to be divided between two municipalities. In the 19th century, the Scottish doctor Robert Kalley stirred up the Catholic faithful of Santo da Serra: Kalley settled in this parish and offered free medical care in his practice. While curing physical ailments, he tried to spread Protestant ideas among his patients and the rest of the population. The distinctly Catholic character of the island’s population naturally did not facilitate the spread of Calvinist ideas and culminated in some unrest in the municipalities of Machico and Santa Cruz. As a result of these riots, proceedings were initiated against the advocates of the new doctrine, which led to some members being imprisoned and Dr. Kalley leaving Madeira Island. Architecture In addition to the numerous English manor houses, there are still valuable examples of local architecture. These are one or two-storey houses with roof finials featuring boys‘ heads, dogs‘ heads, doves or other motifs with all their magical symbolism, bringing fertility to the house or warding off evil spirits. Door inserts made of colored glass are also very common. Many streets in the municipality are lined with hydrangeas and agapantos, also known as the “African love flower”. The Fountain of Santo António da Serra The Fonte de Santo António da Serra, also known as Fonte do Bispo or Fonte dos Ingleses, is a historic fountain in the parish of Santo António da Serra. It probably dates back to the late 17th or early 18th century, although there are no precise records of the year of construction. The different names of the fountain have historical backgrounds:– Fonte do Bispo: This name is derived from the summer residence of the Bishop of Funchal, which was located near the fountain.– Fonte dos Ingleses: During the British occupation of Madeira between 1807 and 1814, English soldiers and residents used the fountain. Inside this fountain there are some inscriptions with the names of Englishmen who lived on farms in Santo da Serra and of English soldiers.The Santo António da Serra fountain is made of stone with a wide arched opening and a semi-circular vaulted interior, the style of “late Mannerism”. This makes it not only an important architectural monument, but also a testimony to the cultural and historical development of the region. The fountain is located at the fork in the road to Portela and the road leading up to the center of the municipality. Levada da Serra do Faial In 1830, on the initiative of the Nova Levada do Furado Society, the construction of a levada began with the aim of transporting water from Faial on the north coast to Funchal. However, due to technical and economic difficulties, the project was abandoned by the private sector and the state was responsible for the work.This levada then became known as Levada da Serra or, more precisely, Levada da Serra do Faial. There are several walking routes here, one of which starts in Santo António da Serra and covers a distance of around 9 kilometers, with the average time to complete this levada being 2–3 hours.The levada alternates between
# 4 – Santana
Santana – Culture and Nature The History The rediscoverer of Madeira, João Gonçalves Zarco, first colonized the island in 1419. At the beginning of colonization, the land was divided between nobles and some commoners. In order to farm, the land had to be cleared. This is also the origin of the well-known statement that the island burned for 7 years … The parish of Santana was finally established as the main town by royal decree on June 4, 1552. The town is named after its patron saint, Santa Ana, in whose honor a church was built in 1689. In 1835, the independent district of Santana was established and the town was given the status of a small town (vila). Santana was granted city status on January 1, 2001. The region around Santana is characterized by agriculture. Fruit, vegetables and corn are grown here due to the fertile soil and frequent rainfall. Craftsmanship, such as filigree embroidery, is also an important part of the culture and is offered in local stores. Casas de Colmo Santana is famous for its traditional thatched farmhouses, the CASAS DE COLMO, which are also a symbol of Madeira Island. Farmers used to live in these simply furnished, often red-painted houses. Today, most of the casas are empty and are only maintained as tourist attractions. The thatched roofs have to be replaced every four to five years. Their construction is based on the use of regionally available materials and traditional building techniques. The thatched houses were built as low-cost housing solutions, especially for agricultural workers. The roofs were made of thatch (colmo), which was obtained from wheat and rye. Willows, wood and thin sticks were used to stabilize the houses. This construction method was robust and easily adaptable to the climatic conditions of the region. In the early years of Madeira’s settlement, this construction method was widespread throughout the island. Although the roof is made exclusively of natural materials, the steep slope ensures that rainwater runs off and does not penetrate. In this way, the roofs remain watertight and the room temperatures inside remain mild – in Summer and Winter. Design and Construction of the Houses There are three types of construction: gabled or wired houses, kerb houses and hip houses. Gabled houses are those in which the longitudinal beams rest directly on the ground. The kerb houses are a further development of their predecessors and enable better use of space, as the gabled roof ends around 60 cm above the ground, while the roof of the gable houses ends close to the ground. Hipped houses are often referred to as round houses due to the appearance of their roof and were mainly built in the municipality of São Jorge. Agricultural products such as seeds were stored in the attic; the living area was located on the first floor, which was divided in two by a partition wall. The living area was mainly used as a bedroom, parents‘ bedroom and children’s room. Sometimes the children’s rooms were separated by a fabric curtain to separate the boys from the girls. The attic could be accessed both from the inside (through a trap door) and from the outside (through the attic door) with the help of a ladder. The kitchen was a separate building, also with a thatched roof. Besides preparing food, other work was carried out too. For example such as embroidery, sewing clothes, spinning and other work related to farming and household chores. Depending on the slope of the land, some houses also have a cellar, which was used as a storage room or bedroom. In the Madeira Theme Park, you can visit such a “residential complex” with a house and outbuildings and reconstructed scenarios. Santana as a UNESCO biosphere reserve Since 2011, the district of Santana has been listed by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve. This is intended to promote the preservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage, as well as sustainable economic development and environmental education. A biosphere garden has been created in the center of Santana as a constant reminder of Santana’s designation as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This garden consists of some characteristic elements of the landscape and culture of the municipality: a typical thatched house, a levada and a statue commemorating the biosphere. The latter was created by Madeiran sculptor Luís Paixão and is intended to represent the planet Earth in its spherical shape in symbiosis with nature, life and the landscape of the female figure. The basis of all the sculptures is the element of water, the source of life. Conclusion: Santana combines tradition and modernity: While people used to live mainly from agriculture and crafts, tourism now plays a central role.
# 3 – São Vicente
São Vicente – the Valley of St. Vicent The Place and its History São Vicente has a long history that is closely linked to the island’s natural and geological features. The village was founded shortly after the discovery of Madeira in the 15th century; the fertile soil and proximity to the sea made the village an important center for agriculture and trade. Sugar cane played a central role in the early days, later São Vicente was known for its wines. The Igreja de São Vicente, built in the 17th century, is one of the oldest buildings in the village. Over the centuries, São Vicente developed into a popular destination for travelers who wanted to enjoy the tranquillity of the north coast and the beauty of the landscape. The village’s favorable location at the mouth of the Ribeira de São Vicente, surrounded by impressive mountains with green slopes, still contributes to its appeal today. Right by the Sea: the Chapel of St. Vincent The chapel of São Vicente is located in the estuary of the river “Ribeira de São Vicente” and was built at the end of the 17th century (around 1694) in a single basalt block. According to tradition, the martyr St. Vincent is said to have appeared here to the astonished inhabitants of São Vicente. The Lava Caves and the Volcanism Center Unfortunately, this entire complex is currently closed to visitors due to renovation work. This is a great pity, as the Grutas de São Vicente, the local lava caves, are a fascinating testimony to Madeira’s volcanic past. Around 890,000 years ago, a volcanic eruption formed the tubes that are now accessible as caves. They are part of an underground network consisting of lava tunnels left behind by cooled lava. Visitors can learn more about the formation of Madeira here. The Volcanism Center, located right next to the caves, offers interactive exhibitions about the island’s geological processes.The caves and the information center are due to reopen in 2025. Rota da Cal – An Insight into Lime Processing The Rota da Cal, the “lime path”, is a lesser-known place in São Vicente. This historic route leads to the old lime kilns that were once used to process limestone. Lime was an important raw material for construction and agriculture. The route offers a mixture of history and nature, as it leads through idyllic landscapes with magnificent views of the mountains and the sea. For me, it is a relaxing and mystical place.
# 2 – Seixal
Seixal – and the Chão da Ribeira High Valley The Chão da Ribeira above Seixal is a high valley with a fascinating mix of nature and cultural history. Historically, this valley was used intensively by the local population for agriculture and livestock farming. Traditional haystacks, which were built in the early days of settlement and today – together with countless agricultural terraces – characterize the landscape, are visible evidence of the farming activities. On the pastures are the “Palheiros”, small huts where tools, fodder and other materials were stored. Today, some of them have been renovated and serve as weekend cottages or for traditional celebrations and gatherings. A largely unknown tradition was the use of cable systems (“fio”) to transport wood and shrubs from the higher forests of Fanal down to the valley. These raw materials were used as fuel, among other things. The leaves were also a welcome resource and were used as fertilizer. The municipality of Seixal has a long wine-growing tradition. In addition to wine production, spirits were also made from wine yeast. In the past, however, the sale of these spirits was prohibited or restricted. Therefore, these products were smuggled up to Paúl da Serra and further south via steeply ascending paths. Festa do Panelo Today, Chão da Ribeira in Seixal has a small, cozy picnic area with a barbecue, tables and benches. This is also where the “Festa do Panelo” takes place in January, where a traditional stew of vegetables and sausages is prepared and enjoyed. The origin: after Christmas, the young people of Seixal would collect some salted pork from each household and cabbage and potatoes from the fields of Chão da Ribeira.Everything was then prepared as a stew and served on the floor over cabbage and bay leaves. This is how the idea of “Panelo” was born and it is still the case today that participants bring their own ingredients (and of course plates and cutlery). Laurisilva and Levada The Chão da Ribeira forest area is part of the Laurisilva (laurel forest) and is also the starting point for some hiking trails and more challenging activities such as canyoning. Almost at the end of the ever-narrowing valley is a trout farm, which is fed with water from the Levada do Chão da Ribeira. The Levada do Chão da Ribeira is divided into two main branches: The branch on the right bank of the Ribeira do Seixal follows the Caminho do Chão da Ribeira and the branch on the left bank flows towards Seixal via the Vereda do Moinho. At the end of the two canals is an ancient “water distribution box” carved in stone.
# 1 – São Jorge
São Jorge – In the North of Madeira São Jorge, located on Madeira’s northern coast, is one of the island’s oldest parishes and belongs to the municipality of Santana. Founded in 1515, São Jorge celebrated its 507th anniversary in 2022. In addition to hosting one of Europe’s oldest water-powered sawmills in the higher-lying area of Achadinha, São Jorge is also home to the well-known coastal area of Calhau. Here, you will find the historic and internationally recognized Ruínas de São Jorge. The Ruins and Beach in São Jorge The most striking architectural feature of the Ruínas is the arched gateway. This served as the entrance to a sugar mill built here during the early settlement of the island. In some historical records, the gateway is also described as the entrance to the former fortress (Redoute) of São Jorge.https://www.cm-santana.com/visitar/o-que-fazer/patrimonio-e-cultura Today, the ruins are a stunning photo spot, particularly due to their dramatic location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The Caminho Real 23, a historic trail connecting northern coastal towns, also passes through this site (marked on the Calhau Bridge), making it a significant point for hiking enthusiasts. The Water-Powered Mill and Sawmill in Achadinha Further inland, São Jorge boasts two technical marvels that remain operational, offering a glimpse into the enduring craftsmanship of its residents.Both landmarks can be visited after hiking along the Levada do Rei trail.https://www.cm-santana.com/visitar/o-que-fazer/patrimonio-e-cultura The Water-Powered Mill Built in the 18th century using local basalt stone, the mill in Achadinha served as a central hub for nearby villages to process grain. Powered by water from the levadas, it ground wheat, corn, and barley into flour for the region’s staple foods.Today, the mill occasionally operates for demonstrations, offering visitors a fascinating look into Madeira’s agricultural history. The Water-Powered Sawmill Just a short walk from the mill is the water-powered sawmill, one of the oldest of its kind in Europe. Driven by powerful water wheels, the saws cut precise planks for constructing houses, boats, and furniture. The sawmill’s combination of functionality and sustainability made it a vital part of the local economy. Today, it stands as an impressive testament to the engineering ingenuity of the past. A Bridge Between Past and Present The water-powered installations in Achadinha exemplify how Madeirans ingeniously adapted their environment to the challenges of island life. They represent an era when sustainability wasn’t a trend but a necessity. For visitors, the mill and sawmill are not only fascinating landmarks but also an invitation to delve into Madeira’s rich history.