The tiny isle of Porto Santo lies just off Madeira's northeast coast. Famed for rolling sand dunes and a long stretch of beach that extends for 9km along a sublime coastline, this quiet, unspoilt beauty-spot exudes a low-key atmosphere and is the perfect place to relax, unwind and get away from it all. The capital is Vila Baleira, a small town nestling around a port where all the hotels and most of the restaurants are found. Christopher Columbus met his wife - the governor's daughter - here, and its easy to see how love could blossom amidst such romantic surroundings. His stone house is now a museum, containing paintings, maps and engravings.
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Porto Santo hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Porto Santo include Luamar Apartments and Vila Baleira Resort Hotel And Spa.
More Madeira holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Madeira? Our Madeira holiday destinations include Calheta, Canico, Funchal, Machico, Porto Santo, Ribeira Brava and Sao Vicente.
Beaches
Porto Santo boasts a long swathe of golden sand that runs along almost the entire south coast. From windsurfing to sailing, from deep-sea diving to snorkelling, the beach and the surrounding sea are ideal for water sports. If all that sounds too energetic simply bask in the glorious sunshine, sift your fingers through the fine sands and feel the refreshing Atlantic breeze on your face.
Eating out
Traditional, intimate restaurants are dotted around the island, often boasting breathtaking locations and sumptuous menus. Beef kebabs, barbecued chicken, home-baked bread and fresh seafood are just some of the tempting specialities you'll be treated to. Round your meal off with a plate of ripe, juicy fruit or a few swirls of ice-cream.
Nightlife
There is very little development in Porto Santo and the soundtrack to your evenings will usually consist of waves lapping the powdery sand and fish jumping over the breakwater. However, Vila Baleira boasts a few laidback bars where you can enjoy your glass of 'verdelho' - the locally-produced wine made from the sweet grapes of the island and 'cooked' beneath the warm rays of the sun for six months. Some of the hotels also offer discos.
Shopping
There are very few shops in Porto Santo but essentials and souvenirs are available, particularly in Vila Baleira. If you really want to shop 'til you drop, a day trip to the mainland will oblige. Intricate embroidery, beautiful leatherwork and rich wines should be at the top your list of gifts to take back home.
Local information
The bubbling springs in the small village of Fonte de Areia - meaning 'spring in the sand' - are believed to have healing properties, and have been sipped for centuries by those seeking restoration of body and soul. For something further afield, why not catch the ferry over to the mainland and visit Madeira's handsome 15th century capital, Funchal? Dubbed 'Little Lisbon', the city overlooks the azure waters of the sea and boasts impressive whitewashed colonial-style buildings and churches made from striking black basalt rock. The 16th century cathedral is particularly fascinating and is one of the few buildings in Madeira to have survived untouched since the island's colonization. The city exudes a chic, cosmopolitan feel - shop in the smart designer boutiques or perhaps relax out in a pavement cafe and sample some of the famous fortified Madeira wines. Funchal also plays host to a colourful flower market in the city centre - look out for the orange-coloured Bird of Paradise flowers.
Location
75km from Funchal
Transfer time
2 hours and 20 minutes
Recommended
Luxury
