Culture

Like its neighbour, Madeira, Porto Santo’s culture is distinctively Portuguese. Almost everything on the island has a Portuguese flavour to it - the architecture, the mosaic pavements, the gorgeous blue wall tiles (called azulejos ), the food and drink - indeed, at times, it is easy to forget that you are strolling in the sun on an remote island in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, 900 kilometres from mainland Portugal. If immersing yourself in the languid atmosphere of laid-back Porto Santo is not enough to satisfy any cravings you may have for culture, there are a variety of festivals through the year for visitors to enjoy including various religious and gastronomic festivals, a three day wine festival, and a selection of sporting events including a beach volleyball tournament and rally-car race.