The harbour, Porto de Abrigo, is 4 kms. from the tiny capital Vila Baleira. The airport is 20 minutes by foot, or 5 minutes by car from Vila Baleira.
As the Madeira island, Porto Santo is of volcanic origin. Compared to Madeira, Porto Santo seems flat. The highest point is Pico de Facho at 507 meters.
The climate is drier than it is on Madeira. For periods in the summer very little water can be a problem. This affects the agriculture which includes corn, wheat, wine, figs and farm animals.
Speaking of wine, the Porto Santo wine is sweet and powerful. Only tablewine is produced.
Almost 80% of the island's 5000 souls live in Vila Baleira.
There's a recommendable campground near the beach, and excellent hotel accommodation.
The hotels offer a series of leisure activities such as tennis, mini-golf, windsurfing and island-tours. |
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