The best running trails around Santana

Santana, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers a diverse range of terrain for runners. You'll find trails winding through the ancient Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as paths leading to the highest peaks of Madeira, such as Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro. Many routes also follow the famous levadas (irrigation channels) and veredas (footpaths), providing varied experiences from lush forest to dramatic mountain and coastal views.

While many routes in Santana are challenging, there are options for a more leisurely jog. The Torre das Portas de Montalvão loop from Nisa is a moderate 6.8 km trail that takes you through riverine landscapes. For a very gentle option, the PR11 Levada dos Balcões, though not listed in the guide's routes, is a family-friendly 1.5-kilometer trail through the Laurissilva Forest leading to a stunning viewpoint.

Santana is known for its mountainous terrain, offering plenty of challenging runs. The Viewpoint of Portas de Ródão – Pego das Portas de Ródão loop from Vila Velha de Ródão is a difficult 17.2 km trail with substantial elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Fonte do Rossio – Senhora da Graça loop from Nisa, which spans 25.3 km and features significant ascents and descents.

Yes, the region offers trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. The Levada do Caldeirão Verde (PR9) is a notable 16.5 km route that takes runners through the Laurissilva Forest directly to the impressive Caldeirão Verde waterfall. This route is generally considered longer and more difficult, ideal for experienced trail runners.

Santana boasts numerous scenic spots. The Pego das Portas de Ródão is a natural monument that can be enjoyed on routes like the Pego das Portas de Ródão loop from Santana. Additionally, the PR11 Levada dos Balcões offers stunning views of the Ribeira Frio valley. The region's coastal areas, such as Rocha do Navio, also provide breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs.

Yes, several routes in Santana are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the difficult Viewpoint of Portas de Ródão – Pego das Portas de Ródão loop from Vila Velha de Ródão (17.2 km) and the Pego das Portas de Ródão loop from Santana (10.7 km). For a moderate option, consider the Torre das Portas de Montalvão loop from Nisa (6.8 km).

The running routes in Santana are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from the lush Laurissilva Forest to the dramatic mountain peaks and coastal views. The variety of trails, including the unique levadas, also contributes to a rewarding and memorable experience.

For a more tranquil experience, consider exploring trails within the Laurissilva Forest. The Levada do Rei is known for being less crowded than some other popular trails, offering a shaded and peaceful route through primary forest, ideal for a quiet jog away from the busiest spots.

Beyond the natural beauty, Santana offers unique cultural insights. You can visit the traditional A-frame houses, known as "casinhas de Santana," which are an iconic symbol of the municipality. The Benbolina Sculpture and Stone Archway and the Conhal Interpretive Center are also nearby points of interest that can be explored before or after your run.

Yes, Santana provides options for longer runs suitable for endurance training. The Fonte do Rossio – Senhora da Graça loop from Nisa is a challenging 25.3 km route. Another substantial option is the Viewpoint of Portas de Ródão – Pego das Portas de Ródão loop from Vila Velha de Ródão, which covers 17.2 km, both offering significant distances and elevation.

Santana is home to Madeira's highest peaks. While specific running routes directly to the very summit of Pico Ruivo (1862 meters) or Pico do Arieiro (1818 meters) might be more hiking-oriented, trails like the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro connect these majestic mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views and high-altitude running experiences. The PR1.2 from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo is a moderately difficult option that provides an invigorating experience at high elevations.