5 Best Sights in Porto Santo, Madeira

The island's series of lofty peaks make for great exploring. The summit of Pico do Castelo, at 1,433 feet, has a small 16th-century fort that provided defense against the frequent attacks of French and Algerian pirates. It's a tough climb to the top, but one that's peppered with pretty flora, from cacti to berry bushes. From the summit, the views are rewarding: below, to the west is Porto Santo Beach, and to the east is the conical shape of Pico de Baixo and the Ilhéu de Cima. From here it's an easy walk to Pico do Facho (1,552 feet), the island's highest point.

Just below Pico das Flores lies Calheta Point, where the café-restaurant O Calhetas marks the western edge of the beach. There is probably no better way to enjoy the whole island than to stop for a drink or bite to eat, then walk back along the beach during the sunset as you admire the astonishing landscape.

Near the village of Camacha, this spring once had the purest water on the island, which is why it was used for medical treatments. The water does not spring forth with such abundance today, but is still considered sacred by locals. To reach the spring, drive west out of the village along the coastal road.

One of your first stops on Porto Santo should be at the Portela viewpoint, which overlooks the harbor, the town, and the long ribbon of beach. Nearby is the hilltop Capela de Nossa Senhora da Graça, one of the oldest churches on the island, dating back to 1851.

This scenic overlook at the end of a bumpy ride off the far western end of the beach offers dramatic panoramic views of the uninhabited islet of Ilhéu de Ferro rising out of the turquoise water. Look to the west and you can also see the main island of Madeira on a clear day.