Porto Santo Island
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Port
Porto Santo, Porto Santo Island, Portugal
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Activity Level
Easy Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$100
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Porto Santo's name derives from the sanctuary it provided to its European 'discoverers' -- João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz. Today, its five-mile-long golden-sand beach offers an entirely different kind of sanctuary.
The first stop on your tour is Calheta at the westernmost point of the island. Here, a narrow channel separates Baixo Inlet from the main island. On a clear day, Madeira is sometimes visible from Calheta, and there are nearly always magnificent views out over the Atlantic Ocean. Taste the island's typical poncha beverage made with sugar-cane rum, honey and lemon juice, and sometimes mixed with fresh fruit juice.
From here, the tour continues to the Porto Santo Golf Club. You'll have some free time here to purchase a snack if you wish (at your own expense).
Take in the vista from the Moinho Viewpoint before continuing to the top of Pico do Castelo. This is one of the highest volcanic peaks on the island and provides some of the best views out over the island.
The island's most famous viewpoint -- Portela -- offers a panoramic view of a beautiful sandy beach. You'll stop at the small town of Vila Baleira, whose narrow, picturesque streets invite you to stroll and explore. Local people man stalls selling food items and souvenirs.
Please note: Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.