The Barlavento islands, also known as the Windward Islands are those located in the North of the archipelago and this itinerary takes in the four main islands.Mindelo, the capital of São Vicente, has plenty of places to observe Cape Verdean culture. At the Centro Nacional Artesanato it is possible to watch Cape Verdeans weaving cloth and making ceramics. There are an abundance of restaurants and bars that have live music, both morna, the bitter sweet sounding songs and the more lively funana. For something a little different, visit Santa Luzia an uninhabited island close to São Vicente that has beautiful deserted beaches and dunes in the south which can be reached by finding a fisherman in Calhau who is willing to take you. Although São Vicente is mountainous, it is dry and dusty whereas Santo Antão is more lush and green and the main attractions are the views and hiking the ribeiras. The road from Porto Novo in the south across the mountain range to Ribeira grande in the North East is an awe inspiring trip with spectacular and stunning views. The precarious road clinging to the mountainside is not for everyone but all can appreciate the wonderful views. This is a green and fertile area and villages appear in deep valleys and high into the cliffs. Whilst here, take time to sample some grogue, the local spirit made from sugar cane. The rest of the trip is a more relaxing affair with some time spent on both Sal and Boa Vista. The landscape on Boa Vista is ever changing with the spectacular sand dunes moving with the winds. Saharan like oasis' are dotted around the interior and depending on the time of the year, turtles can be spotted on some of the beaches. A plethora of water sports awaits visitors to Sal and in addition to the white sandy beaches, the main attractions are the salt flats at Pedra de Lume. The natural swimming pools and underwater caves at Buracano are also a great place to cool off for a quick dip. |
