From the lookout point at Encumeada (1,007m), it's easy to see how this pass marks the climatic border, a crossroads for tracks, roads and footpaths serving the centre of the island. The ER 110 road links the west of the island near Santa to Encumeada pass. Very pleasant and a lot quicker than the southern coastal road, it takes you over the Paúl da Serra plateau, the island's only flat area. In winter, when the road is foggy, it is best avoided. Between Encumeada and Paúl da Serra, it dominates the island's southern slope, commanding fine views of the summits that loom over the coastal banana plantations.