Porto Santo: a magical island to recharge batteries – Mundo

João Gonçalves Zarco and Pedro Vaz Teixeira arrived at the Porto Santo in 1418, after being driven away by strong winds from their African route. The shelter provided by the island earned it the name. Years later, its history is marked by the marriage of the governor’s daughter Bartolomeu Perestrelo to Cristóvão Columbus. Today, Porto Santo’s international fame is based on another discovery: that of the therapeutic properties of sea water and sand.

Thalassotherapy: the sea at the service of health

Porto Santo is the perfect place to discover the almost magical powers of salt water. The Greeks called these treatments thalassotherapy, which can be translated as sea therapy. The secret of the island’s waters lies in its composition rich in mineral salts such as calcium, iodine, magnesium and strontium, which help to fight physical stress and fatigue, as well as diseases related to rheumatism, arthritis, bone problems. and muscular.

If you dream of extending your holidays and recovering energy for the rest of the year, you can’t miss Baleira Thalasso & Spa, the only thalassotherapy center in Porto Santo. Integrated in the Vila Baleira Complex, it is the largest and one of the best equipped in the country when it comes to thalassotherapy. In general terms, the treatment is carried out with sea water heated to 37 degrees in a wide range of shower cabins and swimming pools. Baleira Thalasso & Spa also has massage cabins, sauna and Turkish bath and a walking corridor.

Psamotherapy: the power of the sands

If sea water works wonders for health and well-being, the sands are not far behind. Used for a long time in the treatment of rheumatic and orthopedic diseases, they stand out for being very thin and easy to adhere to the skin.

Rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium or strontium, they withstand high temperatures for a long time, which makes them perfect for treatments. These consist of covering the person with sand heated to between 40 and 43 degrees. After half an hour – recommended duration for the treatment – ​​the temperature is around 37 degrees.

Nature and sport: an infallible recipe against stress

The sea water and the sands attract many visitors to Porto Santo, but the island is not just about therapies. Even if the weather is no longer inviting for sunbathing and diving, be sure to enjoy the beach. Take advantage of your stay to take a walk to Ponta da Calheta along the golden sands. Your stress will magically disappear. If you are looking for something busier, Porto Santo will not disappoint. On the list of attractions are boat trips, sport fishing, diving, windsurfing, surfing, kitesurfing or mountain biking. Do you prefer the green to the sea? Then you really have to take a swing at Porto Santo Golfe, an excellent course designed by the Spanish champion Ballesteros.

Viewpoints also abound on the island. And it’s even worth going up to some to marvel at breathtaking landscapes. The Fonte de Areia, to the north, offers a breathtaking view over the islet of the same name, as well as over the Falésia and the North Coast. Porto Santo beach gains another perspective from the Miradouro das Flores. If you are looking for panoramic views over the beach and the bay, head to Miradouro das Lombas.

Nature is also in the spotlight at Quinta das Palmeiras, a mini-zoo and mini-botanical garden located on a hill in the center-west of the island. In these more than five thousand square meters, you will find a wide variety of birds and plant species. A program to consider especially if you are traveling with children.

A walk through the city

Vila Baleira, the capital and only city of Porto Santo awaits your visit. Discover it without haste and take the opportunity to relax in Largo do Pelourinho and in Jardins do Infante. Once in the center, take a trip to the Christopher Columbus house-museum, which marks the discoverer’s presence on the island. Before saying goodbye, visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade and enjoy local delicacies such as bolo do caco or limpets. Oh, and don’t forget the poncha!

Sea water and sand with therapeutic properties, stunning landscapes and perfect settings for the practice of the most diverse sports. And still a small capital filled with history. All good reasons to make your reservation for Porto Santo with TAP.