Holidays in Porto Santo

An introduction to Porto Santo

Measuring up at just 6 by 11 kilometres, Porto Santo is tiny. In fact, this Portuguese island is so small you might struggle to find it on a map. But once you’ve located Madeira it’s easy – just trace your finger 40 kilometres north and there it is.

Given its size, it’s easy to see why Porto Santo has only recently crept on to the tourist radar. But that’s where its appeal lies – it means the place remains blissfully undeveloped. The beaches, in particular, are one of the island’s major selling points. Along the craggy north coast, waves foam against sharp cliffs and pebbly coves. And to the east, the sands stretch, unbroken, for nine kilometres.

Vila Baleira – Porto Santo’s only town – is classically Portuguese. Whitewashed villas, neat town squares and pavement cafes are the lifeblood of this place. If you want to educate yourself in local cuisine, this is the place to do it. The traditional restaurants serve specialities like seafood stew and spit roasted beef.

Head inland, meanwhile, and arid flatlands run to volcanic peaks that look like they’ve been turned on a potter’s wheel.

Find the cheapest late deals to Porto Santo leaving in the next six weeks.