Things to see and do North Coast

Here lava secretions have formed a small flat overhang at the foot of the cliff and the fringe of this flat, bordering the water, has created pools that the sea has transformed into swimming pools. A few trowels later, Porto Moniz, until then mainly known for its cattle fair, became a popular little seaside resort. The site, although concreted, remains impressive. In summer, don't expect to enjoy it alone. There are free natural swimming pools and wilder ones to be discovered near the aquarium. Watch the flags before you swim!

On the way back to São Vicente, shortly after Seixal, it is a good idea to stop on the left side of the road, at the place called "Veú da Noiva" (Veil of the Bride) where, according to a Madeiran legend, the veil of a young bride who ran away with her husband, against the advice of her parents, fell. From this viewpoint, you can contemplate the Véu da Noiva waterfall, whose height and the amount of water that gushes out are reminiscent of a bride's veil. At 110 meters high, it flows into the ocean above the old road now closed to traffic. Impressive!

To the southwest of Santana, you reach the Achada do Texeira plateau, located at an altitude of 1,592 m, by an asphalt road all the way after taking the ER 218. Two watchtowers along the way offer wonderful views of Madeira's north and east coasts. However, as the fog is often present, it is quite possible that there is nothing to see... On the plateau itself, don't miss the amazing geological structures surrounded by century-old heather (Erica arborea): "Homem-em-Pé", a natural sculpture of piled up basalt blocks representing a standing man, or the "Cara", another sculpture evoking a face.

Hikes above the clouds. We highly recommend the accessible and sublime walk to Pico Ruivo (1,862 m). Departure from the large car park in Achada do Teixeira. Approximately 2 hours of walking (5.6 km return). Easy until the last refuge, after that dry climb to reach the summit (stairs), but it's fast. A relatively easy hike for breathtaking views of the mountains.

Another option, which is more for experienced walkers, is the hike to Pico do Arieiro, on the rooftops of Madeira! Emotions are guaranteed, but be sure to plan ahead, as this is a really difficult walk. Avoid it if you are totally inexperienced (unless you hire a mountain guide). Count 4 to 7 hours according to your level (nearly 12 km). A sensational ridge trail linking two of the highest peaks on the island.

Three galleries punctuated by different rooms with crystal-clear water lakes and lava formations in places. You will not be able to admire stalactites or stalagmites, but rather speleothems of basaltic origin. The longest tunnel is 1 km long and can reach a height of 2 metres. These caves were formed nearly 900,000 years ago as a result of a volcanic eruption. Phenomenon explained at the interactive volcanism centre (kitsch but funny simulator!).

It is a beautiful small beach of black sand, also known as praia da Jamaica (Jamaica beach) because of its palm trees. It is reached by a sort of "criss-cross", from the entrance of the city from Porto Moniz. Nothing spectacular, just a small cove, the surrounding cliffs, the incessant swirls of the ocean waves... Developed a few years ago, this hidden bay is not very popular and is a pleasant surprise, as the best possible alternative to the crowded beaches of the south coast of the island.

Next to the square, in one of the small typical houses, the tourist office of Santana is not always the most efficient, but you can still get some information, if it is not overrun by buses of excursionists and other tourists. It is also the occasion to observe a little more closely the traditional Santana houses(casas de colmo), characterized by their triangular thatched roof. Only a few houses, painted in red, white and blue, for the happiness of the tourists!

This amusement park (you have to call it that!) will appeal especially to children. On site, three multimedia pavilions ("Discover the Islands", "Fantastic Journey to Madeira" and "A World of Islands, Islands in the World"); Monte wooden carts, typical Santana houses; a craftsmen's corner and a walking tour. You can also sail on a pond with replicas of small fishing boats... In short, life is beautiful in the land of artificial paradises!