Santa Cruz
With a rich History, the municipality of Santa Cruz is known for its connection to the sea and to Nature.
Between natural reserves and centuries-old traditions
Anyone arriving by plane to the island. could hardly find a more representative scenery of Madeira's spectacular landscape. The Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport is located in Santa Cruz, welcoming travellers with a landscape dominated by the vivid shades of the ocean on one side and mountains on the other.
This municipality on Madeira's east coast is located 18 kilometres from Funchal, the archipelago's capital. Its History dates back to the 15th century, when the island was discovered. At the time, the discoverer João Gonçalves Zarco found old cedars among the dense trees that covered this area, with which he commissioned a cross to be made, thus christening this site.
It is one of the oldest settlements in the entire archipelago. Currently, the municipality of Santa Cruz has around 43,000 inhabitants, spread across five parishes: Camacha, Caniço, Gaula, Santo António da Serra and Santa Cruz.
If you are looking for places to visit in Santa Cruz, it should be noted that there is a number of places where Nature reveals itself in an especially beautiful way. Among beaches, viewpoints, gardens and a natural reserve, there's plenty to discover. In addition, the various towns in the municipality offer a visit filled with culture and tradition.
Details
Santa Cruz is the gateway for those arriving on the island by plane. It is a perfect municipality for nature, beach, culture, tradition and even golf lovers.
Where to go
Santo da Serra
With its vibrant green surroundings, Santo da Serra is located on a high plateau. The abundant and exuberant vegetation gives this place a typically romantic atmosphere. In this area, we should highlight the Santo da Serra Golf Club and Quinta da Junta, located in the town centre.
Where to go
Camacha
With a unique cultural heritage, Camacha is one of the most emblematic parishes of the archipelago of Madeira. It is not by chance that this town receives a great number of tourists, brought here mainly for its folklore - the internationally known 'Bailinho da Madeira' - and its famous wickerwork handicrafts.
Activities in Santa Cruz
A wide range of places of interest and activities to enjoy.
Restaurants in Santa Cruz
Avó Micas Restaurant
Sítio dos Casais Próximos | 9100-255 Santo da Serra
Other Locations
Discover Madeira from north to south and east to west with the suggestions we have for you. Be dazzled by the magic of the island.
South Coast
Câmara de Lobos
The municipality of Câmara de Lobos stands out for its fishing culture, its ocean landscapes and its unmistakable traditions.
North Coast
Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is an obligatory stop - from the Laurissilva trails to the emblematic natural pools, as well as its important historical and cultural heritage.
North Coast
São Vicente
The municipality of São Vicente is home to a vast natural and cultural heritage, such as the Laurissilva forest, volcanic caves and historical monuments.
North Coast
Santana
The municipality of Santana presents a set of unique natural, landscape, environmental, human and cultural values of great interest.
East Coast
Machico
Machico is one of the most important municipalities in the Island's History. Today, it is known for its traditional villages, landscapes and beaches.
West Coast
Ribeira Brava
Ribeira Brava has a privileged climate and a vast natural heritage and landscape. Here, some of Madeira's most famous regional products are grown.
West Coast
Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol is known for its beaches and typical villages. In addition, the archipelago's famous products, such as bananas and sugar cane, are grown here.
West Coast
Calheta
Calheta is the largest municipality in the Island. Between nature, the sea and multiple parishes, it offers a variety of points of interest and activities.
Madeira Peaks
Pico do Areeiro
One of the highest points of Madeira Archipelago, at an altitude of 1818 metres, Pico do Areeiro offers a privileged view of the Madeiran Mountain Massif.
Madeira Peaks
Pico Ruivo
At an altitude of 1862 metres, Pico Ruivo is the highest point of the archipelago of Madeira. The amplitude of its view is therefore unparalleled.
Where to go
Porto Santo
What to do in Porto Santo? From its paradisiacal beach to its historical heritage, discover this secret kept in the ocean.
South Coast
Funchal
A European city located in a bay bathed by the Atlantic, which combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a close relationship with Nature.