Don't miss the island of Porto Santo on your trip to Madeira
Although Madeira has become one of the most popular holiday destinations for Lithuanians, the nearby island of Porto Santo is often undiscovered. Although it's almost 18 times smaller than Madeira, there's also plenty to discover. Itaka presents Porto Santo's history and highlights.
Porto Santo - "Blessed Port"
Porto Santo Island's name translates into Lithuanian as "Blessed Harbour". The name is given to the place for a reason. When Portuguese explorers in the 15th century were looking for water routes to the west coast of Africa, strong winds blew them off course, but they found an island that, after the turbulent weather on the ocean, became a cosy and safe haven.
Christopher Columbus stop
The island was also home to one of the world's most famous explorers, Christopher Columbus. It is true that he did not arrive here by mistake, but by design, as he fell in love with and later married the daughter of Bartholomew Perestrel, the governor of Porto Santo, Philippa de Moniz. Historians argue that this love affair may also have contributed to Christopher Columbus's great discoveries, as he learned a great deal about navigating on the water during his frequent voyages from Portugal to the archipelago of the Madeira Islands.
Daiva Strumskienė, a representative of the tour operator, says that the footsteps of Christopher Columbus can still be walked on Porto Santo: "The locals are very proud of this part of the island's history. A special Christopher Columbus museum is dedicated to this. According to the locals, the location of the museum is exactly where the house where the explorer lived used to be. One of the walls of the building is made of stone, with two oval windows. This is indeed typical of 15th-century architecture, so this detail supports the locals' theory."
9 kilometres of therapeutic beaches
As well as a rich history, the island boasts unique beaches. Porto Santo's golden sandy beach was named the most beautiful in Europe in 2022. The beaches here are not only beautiful, but also therapeutic. The seawater, rich in calcium, iodine and magnesium, is typical of many seas and ocean coasts. Porto Santo's beaches are also unique because of the healing properties of the sand.
"The sand here is made up mainly of calcium carbonate, in the form of calcite, which has special thermal properties. For this reason, relaxing on Porto Santo beach not only allows you to unwind and unwind, but also helps to treat orthopaedic and rheumatic problems," says Ms Strumskienė.
Natural beauties of nature
Porto Santo Island is not only for those who want to relax on the beaches, but also for those looking for active holidays. There are hiking routes for all levels of activity, allowing you to visit and see the island from new angles. For example, one route takes you directly to the highest peak of Porto Santo, Pico do Castelo. Another trail goes around the Pico do Facho. These and other routes can be walked or cycled, so you can choose your preferred way of discovering the island.
However, the travel expert reminds you to prepare responsibly: "Take water and snacks with you when you go hiking, as you will encounter spectacular untouched nature with no restaurants or shops along the way."
Unique island culture
While Porto Santo is known for its natural beauty, the local culture is also worthy of special attention. If you want to see an authentic island festival, visit the island from 23-24 June. Mid-Summer is celebrated with the Festas de São João, honouring the island's patron saint, St. John of God. This celebrates St. John of São João.
Another unique Porto Santo celebration is the Columbus Festival. It takes place in September and celebrates the explorer's visit and experiences in the islands of the Madeira archipelago, as well as his other voyages and discoveries. The end of summer is also full of festivities. At the beginning of August, the island celebrates the religious festival of Nossa Senhora da Graça, and at the end of the month, the Festa das Vindimas, the grape harvest festival.
Daiva Strumskienė
Sales Manager
www.itaka.lt
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