Madeira Theme Park, Santana
Parque Tematico
The Madeira Theme Park, or in Portuguese Parque Temático da Madeira, was officially opened in October 2004. It covers an area of some 7 acres. It is an excellent attraction for both adults and children, having many displays and activities.
There is a network of pathways that weave their way around the greenery of the grounds.
One thing the Theme Park does not attempt to do is to emulate botanical gardens that are situated elsewhere on the island. Certainly, there are endemic plants on display, but these are just an exceedingly pleasant backdrop. Rather, the main aim of the attraction is to present a voyage of discovery of the origins and culture of Madeira in a fun and entertaining way.
Key Facts
The Theme Park is open daily from Tuesday to Sunday. During the high season, mid-June to mid-September, and again over the Christmas festivities from mid-December to early January, it is also open every Monday.
Many special events are also held in the grounds. In the past year, sheep shearing, classic car and adventure training activities days have all been featured.
The Parque Tematico has also hosted the culmination of a series of fairs that were an initiative by the Associação Santana Cidade Solidária, Santana Moda a Comprar - young dance groups, rock bands and ballroom dancing bringing the celebrations to a lively end.
| Madeira Theme Park | |
|---|---|
| Address | Estrada Regional 101, Fonte da Pedra, 9230-098 Santana |
| Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday | 10:00am to 7:00pm daily |
| Closed on Monday | Except peak season (check before going) |
| Admission Prices | Adults: 10 Euro Children (5 to 14): 8 Euro Senior Citizens: 8 Euro |
| Telephone | (351) 291 570 410 |
| Fax | (351) 291 570 419 |
| (Details correct at September 2009) | |
Activities and Displays
Parque Temático has something for all ages and interests.
For the young and young at heart, there are interactive displays and rides. There is also the opportunity for adventure in the maze and activity play areas.
For those interested in the culture and history of the islands, there are many displays and recreations. These will take you on a journey from the discovery of the islands, through the themes of the various cultural heritage, to the present day where the archipelago is famous as a popular honeymoon destination.If you are curious about the future, the Theme Park uses cutting edge technology and communication tools to deliver it's message. And, there is a pavilion devoted to the future and what it may hold - but, only if we act responsibly today.
Once you have paid the entrance fee, all rides and activities within the theme park are free. The main features are:
- Lake with rowing boats
- Remote control toy ships
- Train ride around the grounds
- Discovery of the Islands pavilion
- Traditional handicrafts workshops
- Traditional Santana house examples
- Fantastic Voyage pavilion
- Maze with distorting mirror
- Childrens' play area
- Future of the Earth pavilion
- Traditional transport displays
- Adventure activities area
- Café and restaurant
- WC facilities
- Ample car parking available
Refreshment facilities, easy car parking, on-going developments, along with visitor shops and an information centre make the Madeira Theme Park a destination you should allow at least half a day to enjoy.
Parque Tematico Photos Gallery
Traditional forms of transport
Views around the Parque Tematico grounds
Traditional icons
More traditional icons
Maze and restored watermill
Theme Park, Parque Tematico, Video
This video gives you an independent introduction to the Theme Park. In just 2 minutes and 18 seconds it offers you a good idea of what you can expect when you visit.
Road Directions
By Car:-
From Funchal, join the Rapida heading eastward toward Santa Cruz. This road is designated the ER101. If you find yourself travelling toward Ribeira Brava, then you are going in the wrong direction.
When you reach Machico, keep on the ER101, following the signs to Faial and Santana.
You will pass through a number of tunnels. Finally, after about 40km you will see the logo road sign to the Parque Tematico da Madeira. Turn off here, the car park is nearby.
From anywhere in and around Santana, just look for the blue road signs with white writing pointing to the Parque Tematico.
By Bus:-
No public bus travels direct to the Theme Park, but see below.
Buses 56, 103 and 138 take you to Santana. From the centre of Santana you can easily walk to the Theme Park. See the Funchal to Santana bus directions on our Santana tourist guide.By Carristur Tour Bus:-
Carristur offer a half day tour to the Theme Park. The tour costs €20 per person and include free entry to the park (correct at September 2009). The bus for the tour leaves from the Avenida do Mar, on the seafront promenade next to the cable car terminal, every Thursday at 9:30am.
You can buy tickets from any Carristur representative, easily identified by their bright yellow uniform tops. They can be found in the tourist district of Funchal, on the Estrada Monumental roadway opposite the Monumental Hotel just up from the Lido. Alternatively, they can be found along the seafront promenade by the sightseeing bus stops or next to the cable car terminal.
You can contact Carristur on (351) 966 923 943.
Theme Park, Parque Tematico, Promotional Video
Madeira Features
Camacha Clock Tower
Camacha clock tower, that today constitutes part of the O Relógio wicker showroom building, is often overlooked by visitors to the village.
However, Camacha clock tower, and the clock it houses, both have an interesting history. A history that played a small, but significant part in Madeira's current day heritage.
Indeed, the timepiece did not originate in Madeira, but rather it was selected to be transported to Camacha because of its superior workmanship and accuracy.
Today, Camacha is the centre of Madeira's famous wicker industry, but in the past it held the distinction of providing a summer retreat where expatriates could escape the heat of summer more.
Funchal's Gate Varadouro
The Old City Gate was originally constructed in 1689 as part of Funchal's fortifications.
That Funchal needed protection from pirates and foreign aggression was in little doubt. The city was often attacked by marauding forces from passing ships.
Finally, the fortification became largely redundant in the late nineteenth century and the gate Varadouro was eventually dismantled in 1911. Fortunately, key aspects of the gate and its design were preserved. Then, in 2004, to contribute to the city's 500th anniversary celebrations, Funchal's Gate Varadouro was rebuilt in its original location.
