Hidden Off The Coast Of Portugal Is A Madeira Alternative That's One Of Europe's Best-Kept Secrets

Just off the northwest coast of Africa is Madeira, a beautiful Portuguese island sometimes called the "Pearl of the Atlantic." Travelers to these idyllic shores will find sandy beaches backed by dramatic slopes and medieval architecture, not to mention the Vereda do Fanal, an enchanted fairytale forest shrouded in mist and mystery. What most travelers are unaware of, however, is that Madeira forms part of an archipelago. While two of the other islands in the chain are uninhabited, not far from Madeira's northeast coast is Porto Santo Island, a relaxed alternative for travelers looking to venture off the beaten track. Since most European vacationers planning a jaunt to Portugal's far-flung outcrops tend to only set their sights on Madeira, this makes Porto Santo Island one of Europe's best-kept secrets.

Portuguese navigators arrived on Porto Santo Island in 1418, before they had even discovered Madeira itself. Settlers to the island subsisted by growing sugar cane and cultivating vineyards. Its distance from the Portuguese mainland, however, left its shores vulnerable to pirate attacks. Christoper Columbus even lived on the island with his wife for a short time — his former abode is now a museum.

Boasting long stretches of buttery beaches and a rugged shoreline dominated by sweeping, rocky cliffs, tourists to Porto Santo Island can soak up the best of the Madeiran landscape without the usual crowds. In the quiet oasis of Vila Baleira, the island's main town, wide cobblestone boulevards lined with rustic cottages await leisurely strolls, while corner bistros offer sightseers a picturesque spot to enjoy Portuguese cuisine. Plus, travelers who still want to experience Madeira can take a 2.5-hour ferry ride from Funchal over to Porto Santo Island for a worthwhile day trip. 

After arriving in Vila Baleira, history fiends will no doubt want to jump right into sightseeing. Step back in time to the seafaring days of the Age of Discovery at the Casa Colombo – Porto Santo Museum, housed in the quaint stone manor where the famous navigator Christopher Columbus once lived together with his wife. Among the artifacts on display are models of Columbus' ships, navigational charts and maps, along with religious sculptures and antique furnishings. "Definitely a must-see if you're on the island!" a previous visitor shared via Google.

Tucked amidst the hilly meadows just 10 minutes by taxi from Vila Baleira is the Casa da Serra. Showcased in a rustic stone farmhouse are displays of artifacts that reveal the domestic life of Porto Santo's inhabitants from a bygone age. Antique telephones and crockery line the shelves, while dioramas with old-timey furnishings demonstrate a rural, agricultural lifestyle. Outside, visitors can wander around to meet the resident farm animals, while the museum also offers tastings of local wines.

On the northwest side of the island, enjoy a quiet picnic from the rugged cliffs overlooking the azure coastline at the Fonte da Areia, a popular viewpoint. Winding steps lead down the side of the cliffs to several different observation platforms lined with tables and umbrellas. "Perfect for relaxing and calming your mind," wrote a previous visitor on Google. Waves crash against the boulders clinging to the shore down below, and on the horizon, another craggy island rises from the sea, creating a spectacular view.

Sun-seekers craving a day lounging on the sand will find vast shorelines around Porto Santo Island. Steps away from the cobbled streets of Vila Baleira is Fontinha Beach, a stretch of golden sand with views of the island's jagged peaks. Throw down a towel to bask under the Mediterranean sunshine, then take a stroll along the pier stretching out into the sea, where locals enjoy relaxing and fishing. At the southern tip of the island is Calheta Beach, a secluded curve of shoreline dotted with craggy boulders. The pointed peaks of Porto Santo's neighboring uninhabited outcrop dominate the horizon, creating a picturesque backdrop for trip photos.

After sightseeing, head to Porto Santo Island's local eateries. Find tasty bites at the Apollo 14 Bar & Bistro, which is a favorite with locals for traditional snacks, just a short walk from the Christopher Columbus Museum. Overlooking the sandy shore is the Pé na Água Restaurante & Beach Bar, where sunbathers can fill up on fresh seafood, colorful cocktails, and desserts.

While a day trip to Porto Santo Island from Madeira is certainly feasible for vacationers on a tight schedule, the island offers plenty of accommodations for an overnight stay. A 6-minute walk from Fontinha Beach is the Hotel Torre Praia, where comfortable rooms and ocean view suites are a retreat for sunburnt beachgoers after a day out. A short drive from Vila Baleira is the Hotel Pestana Porto Santo, which a previous guest claimed "exceeded all expectations" in a Tripadvisor review. Guests can lounge on the beach and enjoy family-friendly entertainment, spa facilities, and on-site dining. For travelers continuing their adventures back in Madeira, don't miss a stop at Santana, an unbelievably vibrant village with coastal charm and colorful homes.