From the clifftop viewpoint there is a fine panorama over the coastal strip to the bay of Funchal. 580m below, the frothing ocean creates regular curving patterns. The route passes through terraces and banana plantations then drops down to Ribeira Br..

This church, probably built in 1639, stands to the right of a bend. It has a beautiful Moorish ceiling.

The 204 road links the west of the island near Santa to the Encumeada pass. Very pleasant and a lot quicker than the coastal road, this road takes you through the high plateau, the only place on the island where you will see cows... In winter, when t..