Queimadas Forest Park & Casa das Queimadas, Santana (Madeira)

Hike, Historic Building and National Park in Santana (Madeira)

Casa das Queimadas
Casa das Queimadas
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Patrice78500

Parque Florestal das Queimadas sits high above Santana on Madeira's north side, where the air turns cooler, the greenery deepens, and the world starts to feel quietly prehistoric. This is Laurissilva country: tangled branches, mossy stone, dripping ferns, and that steady hush you only get in old forests. Even if you're not here for a long hike, it's one of the best places to visit in Santana for a quick reset into nature, with picnic areas, short forest wanderings, and a trailhead energy that makes you want to lace up your boots.

The park's signature landmark is Casa das Queimadas, a thatched-roof shelter built in the early 20th century in the traditional Santana style, looking like it belongs in a fairytale rather than a mountain forest. Today it's part visitor hub, part small museum experience, and part practical base for walkers, and it's a satisfying stop to pair with a walking tour of Santana if you want to contrast the village's heritage with the landscape that shaped it.

History and Significance of the Parque Florestal das Queimadas

Queimadas matters because it's not just “a nice park,” it's an access point into Madeira's Laurissilva, the ancient laurel forest ecosystem that survives here in extraordinary condition. This is the kind of environment that explains Madeira in one glance: steep valleys, abundant water, and forests that hold onto moisture and life even when the weather changes quickly.

The human story is tied closely to Madeira’s levadas, the irrigation channels that transformed the island by moving water from wet zones to farmable land. The nearby Levada do Caldeirão Verde is part of that engineering heritage, and the house at Queimadas evolved alongside the rise of walking routes and forest work in the 19th and early 20th centuries, eventually becoming a shelter for visitors and workers.

Casa das Queimadas also acts as a cultural anchor. With its traditional architecture and interior displays that reflect everyday Madeiran life, it turns a purely outdoor visit into something more rounded: you get nature, history, and a small taste of local tradition in the same stop.

Things to See and Do in the Parque Florestal das Queimadas

Most people come to Queimadas for the PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde, one of Madeira’s classic “walk into the green” routes. The path quickly pulls you into dense forest scenery, with that levada soundtrack beside you, and it’s the kind of walk that feels immersive even before you reach the main waterfall viewpoint.

If you want something gentler, treat the park as a forest stroll rather than a mission. Short wanderings around the picnic zone and the surrounding woods still give you that Laurissilva mood-moss, ferns, birdsong, and the occasional dramatic break in the canopy that hints at the valleys beyond.

Don't skip Casa das Queimadas itself. Even a brief look adds character to your visit, and it's one of the best photo spots in the area because the thatched roof and lush backdrop are so distinctly “Santana.” If you're planning a longer day, it also makes sense as a before-or-after pause for a drink or snack, so you're not starting the trail on empty.

How to Get to the Parque Florestal das Queimadas

The nearest airport is Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC), and it's the practical entry point for most visitors heading to Santana and the north-coast trailheads. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Santana (Madeira) on Booking.com.

Madeira doesn't have a passenger rail network, so trains aren't an option for reaching Santana or the park.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

From Funchal, the simplest approach is by car or taxi via the main roads toward Santana, then the final uphill access road to Queimadas, where parking is managed on-site. The drive is scenic but winding near the end, so allow extra time if you're prone to travel sickness or you're visiting in low cloud.If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

If you're using public transport, buses run between Funchal and Santana, but services don't reliably reach the park entrance itself. A common budget approach is to bus to Santana, then walk up via Levada da Silveira (a longer, steady climb that turns the journey into a half-day hike in its own right), or use a taxi for the final stretch if you want to save your legs for Caldeirão Verde.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Parque Florestal das Queimadas

  • Entrance fee: Forest park: Free. Casa das Tradições Madeirenses (Casa das Queimadas): €3 (ages 13+); free for ages 12 and under.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 09:00–18:00. Saturday – Sunday & Public holidays: 11:00–18:00. Closed on Christmas Day & 1 January.
  • Best time to visit: Aim for an early start to enjoy quieter paths and softer forest light, especially if you’re doing Caldeirão Verde.
  • How long to spend: Plan 1-2 hours for the park and Casa das Queimadas alone, or half a day to a full day if you’re hiking the levadas from here.
  • Accessibility: The immediate park area is manageable for a slow stroll, but the main levada hikes include narrow sections and uneven surfaces that may not suit limited mobility.
  • Facilities: There’s a staffed reception area, a café-style stop nearby for a quick break, and picnic space that’s useful for refuelling before or after your walk.

Where to Stay Close to the Parque Florestal das Queimadas

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in central Santana so you can walk to traditional houses, restaurants, and local viewpoints; for a nature-first trip, stay slightly outside town toward the cliffs and trailheads so early starts feel effortless and evenings stay quiet.
A reliable, central base is Hotel O Colmo, which keeps you close to Santana's everyday amenities while still being well placed for early departures to Queimadas. If you want a more special stay with sweeping north-coast views and a strong “Madeira landscape” feel, Quinta do Furão is ideal for pairing hikes with relaxed, scenic downtime. For a quieter, nature-immersed option with a restful atmosphere, Santana in Nature Bed & Breakfast works well if you want to wake up already surrounded by greenery.

Is the Parque Florestal das Queimadas Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you want Madeira’s “deep green” in an easy, well-organised starting point. Even without committing to a long hike, the park delivers the Laurissilva atmosphere quickly, and Casa das Queimadas adds a memorable, distinctly local touch you won’t find at every trailhead.

It's also a smart choice if you're balancing busier coastal sightseeing with something slower and more restorative. Queimadas gives you that sense of stepping into a different Madeira-cooler, quieter, and shaped by forest and water rather than beaches and city streets.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (3,823)

Parque Florestal das Queimadas, on Levada do Caldeirão Verde, is a starting point for a popular, scenic levada walk through lush, misty terrain to a waterfall; visitors praise the magical, fairytale-like landscape and peaceful water sounds but warn the path can be slippery, muddy and uneven so bring proper shoes and a jacket. The site has a fairly large parking area, paid restrooms and a coffee stop, plus two small buildings where you can buy souvenirs and pay for parking; for a short visit you can see woven wooden steps, geese and sleepy cats without parking if you only stay briefly.

Lisa Young
5 months ago
"Tip-if you don’t do hikes and want to see the geese and begi ing bits, we didn’t pay for parking cuz it only took half hour! Bonus! We came to seethe lovely steps with wood woven banisters, geese and the sleepy cats. Saw hikers covered in mud and decided that wasn’t for me. Quick pit stop well worth it!..."
Jose Manuel Rodrigues
2 weeks ago
"Very nice hiking trail in this park. It have available a quite large parking area, paid bathroom and coffee."
Vahid Shahani
4 months ago
"★★★★★nLevada do Caldeirão Verde – Heaven. 🌿✨nAn unforgettable walk through one of Madeira’s most magical landscapes. Surrounded by lush greenery,misty cliffs, and the peaceful sound of water ru ing beside you, every step feels like a fairytale. The waterfall at the end is worth every minute of the hike. 🔸 Tips:n•tTake a jacket – it can get chilly, especially in the shade or near the waterfall.n•tWear proper hiking shoes – the path can be slippery and uneven in spots.n•tBring enough water and snacks/food, it’s a long walk, and there are no shops along the way. Nature lovers: don’t miss this one!..."

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

Queimadas can work beautifully for families if you frame it as a forest adventure rather than a long endurance hike. Start with the house and picnic area, then choose a shorter out-and-back section of trail so everyone gets the “levada experience” without the commitment.

Pack snacks and a light layer, because the forest can feel chilly even when the coast is warm. If you’re travelling with younger children, aim for simpler paths near the park and treat the bigger hikes as a future trip when they’re ready.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Queimadas is one of those places that feels quietly cinematic: misty greens, soft light, and a fairytale house tucked into the trees. It’s ideal for a slow morning together, especially if you time your walk to avoid the busiest hours.

Make it a “two-part” day by hiking first, then returning to Santana for a long lunch and a gentle afternoon exploring viewpoints. The contrast between forest hush and village life is what makes the day feel complete.

Budget Travelers

Queimadas is excellent value because the forest park itself is free, and your main cost becomes transport and whatever you choose to do inside the house. If you’re budgeting, bring a picnic and refill water in town before you head up.

Using buses to Santana can keep costs down, but plan your timing carefully so you're not rushing back. If you're fit and enjoy longer walks, the approach via Levada da Silveira can turn the journey into a full, memorable day with minimal spending.

FAQs for Visiting Parque Florestal das Queimadas

Getting There

It’s in the hills above Santana on Madeira’s north coast, reached by a short but steep access road from town. Once you arrive, the setting feels immediately cooler and greener than the coastal areas.
The simplest option is a taxi or drive up the signed road from Santana, which brings you straight to the car park and reception area. Walking is possible, but it’s best treated as its own hike rather than a quick approach.
Yes, but it takes planning because buses typically get you to Santana rather than all the way to the park entrance. Many visitors combine a bus to Santana with a taxi for the final climb, or walk up as part of a longer levada day.
It’s paved and straightforward, but it’s narrow and can feel tight when traffic is busy. Drive slowly, expect occasional passing points, and allow extra time if visibility is reduced by cloud.

Tickets & Entry

The forest park itself is free to enjoy, so you can wander and relax without paying an entrance ticket. Charges typically relate to specific facilities or experiences, such as visiting the interior exhibition spaces.
For the park itself, no booking is normally needed, and you can visit casually. If you’re doing the PR 9 hike with a tour, confirm your meeting point and timing so you’re not caught out by transport logistics.

Trails & Planning

It’s worth visiting even without the full hike because the forest atmosphere and Casa das Queimadas make for a memorable short stop. If you’re short on time, a brief stroll near the park still gives you the Laurissilva feel.
Bring a light rain layer, a headlamp if you expect tunnels, and shoes with reliable grip. Even on sunny days the path can be damp underfoot, and the forest can change mood quickly.

Photography & Nature

Yes, especially for moody greens, mossy textures, and the classic shot of Casa das Queimadas against the forest backdrop. Cloudy days often create the most dramatic atmosphere rather than “ruining” the light.
Early morning is best for fewer people and softer light, and it often feels more magical when the forest is still waking up. Late afternoon can work too, but it’s usually busier if hikers are returning at the same time.

Safety & Timing

Early is better for calmer paths and a more peaceful feel, especially if you’re hiking. Later visits can be lovely for a short stroll, but the atmosphere is less quiet once groups arrive.
Light rain or mist can actually make Queimadas feel more atmospheric and “Madeira-authentic,” as long as you dress for it. In heavy rain or strong wind, prioritise safety and choose shorter, less exposed routes near the park.

Nearby Attractions to the Parque Florestal das Queimadas

  • PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A classic levada route leading through Laurissilva scenery to an iconic waterfall viewpoint.
  • Caldeirão do Inferno: The tougher continuation beyond Caldeirão Verde for experienced walkers who want a wilder finish.
  • Pico das Pedras: A nearby nature area with easier walking options and fresh viewpoints that pair well with Queimadas.
  • Casas Típicas de Santana: The famous thatched traditional houses in town, perfect for understanding local architecture and heritage.
  • Ribeiro Frio and the Balcões viewpoint: A popular nearby stop for forest walks, viewpoints, and a very different angle on Madeira’s interior landscape.

The Queimadas Forest Park & Casa das Queimadas appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Santana (Madeira)!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday - Friday: 09:00-18:00.

Saturday - Sunday & Public holidays: 11:00-18:00.

Closed on Christmas Day & 1 January.

Price:

Forest park: Free. Casa das Tradições Madeirenses (Casa das Queimadas): €3 (ages 13+); free for ages 12 and under.

Address: Parque Florestal das Queimadas, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Portugal
Santana (Madeira): 3 km
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