Santo Antão

a jewel in the windward island's crown with unforgettable views for all lovers of scenery. The crossing from Mindelo to Santo Antão takes just one hour by conventional ferry or catamaran; this is a placid journey. However, in a choppy ocean, the ship rocks from side to side, causing passengers to hug a handrail for support - an exhilarating journey and a stimulating prelude to the magnificent first sighting of Santo Antão. At anchorage, a veritable cornucopia of life avalanches in, a noisy bustle of people and belongings in search of relatives, friends or transport. Most of the holidaymakers make a rental for the obligatory descent down the rugged spine of Santo Antão to Ribeira Grande in the north. A paradise for photographers. Arguably one of the world's greatest journeys, the route is miraculous, built from volcanic stones, carved by hand and placed individually to create a 26-kilometre-long mosaic. So great is the climb that the scenery, flora and even the climate change from arid coastal desert to cool, misty slopes covered in eucalyptus and pine forests - with breathtaking views in every direction. The occupations on the hillsides are diverse, with donkeys carrying wicker baskets full of produce and schoolchildren dressed in perfect white waiting for school transport. From Ribeira Grande - a peaceful town with colonial houses, one of the crossroads of the island - on the left is a short drive to Ponta do Sol, an exquisite town with elegant buildings, a beautiful church, restaurants and nightlife. To the right of Ribeira Grande and its beautiful mountains are Paul and Janela Villages. Janela is known for its stone monument, said to have been carved by Chinese visitors during 1418-1422, well before the Portuguese visit. Santo Antão is famous for its grog, a Cape Verdean speciality made from sugar cane. Several varieties are available and many a merry evening can be enjoyed with a sample or two. Activities Excellent for hikers of all levels and botanists, with walks along the many streams passing through secret villages and hidden valleys; routes are mapped and locals regularly use paths as a means of getting around. Other activities include mountain biking, scuba diving and daredevil mountain activities, as well as quad biking, fishing (and spearfishing), canoeing, boating and four-wheel drives. Half-day island tour Full-day island tour.