Sao Vicente Information
Sao Vicente is the third smallest of the islands that make up the Cape Verde archipelago but it is home to the countries second largest city,
Mindelo, as well as an airport and an 18 hole golf course. Roughly rectangular in shape, it measures 24km from East to West and only 16km
from North to South. Although volcanic in origin Sao Vicente has not erupted in recorded history and the island is quite flat with few traces
of its volcanic past remaining. Its highest point is at Monte Verde at an altitude of 774 meters.
Discovered on Saint Vincent’s Day, the 22nd January, in 1492 it only began to grow in population in 1838 when it became a supply stop for ships on Atlantic routes from all over the world. Sailors from many different nationalities met together in the local bars and cafes of Mindelo and it became an important cultural centre where music, literature and sports were developed and encouraged which it still cultivates to this day.
All the local sports in the Cape Verde archipelago are said to come from Sao Vicente.
Here is a brief synopsis of some of the towns to visit.
Mindelo
Cape Verde’s second largest town, Mindelo, is a harbour town that is without a doubt the city of festivals and carnivals. Over 75% of the population of Sao Vicente live here.
With roots buried deep in the Portuguese culture mixed with Brazilian characteristics, it is a cosmopolitan town of charm and nostalgia. Its beautifully planned streets exhibit some delightful examples of Colonial British and Portuguese architecture, monuments and gardens.
During the day a trip to the close by small, white, sandy beach of Langinha is a must and during the evening Mindelo's bars and discotheques come alive with the swaying rhythm that the Cape Verde Islands are famous for.
Baia das Gatas
Ten minutes from Mindelo, this stunning bay consists of a magnificent natural pool surrounded by some of the most beautiful and unusual scenery the island has to offer. It is also where one of Cape Verde’s biggest musical festival is held every year at the end of August to celebrate the full moon. Initially started by a few friends meeting together to play music, it grew steadily and has been an officially organised event since 1984 with musicians from all over the world attending.
Sao Pedro
This small village around 10 kilometres from Mindelo and close to the airport is famous for its beach where almost constant high wind speeds offer near perfect conditions for water and wind sports.
Monte Verde
Monte Verde is the highest point of Sao Vicente. In sharp contrast to the surrounding flatlands it rises to a height of 774 meters offering magnificent unspoilt views of the neighbouring islands of Sao Nicolau and the nature reserve of Santa Luzia.
Oporto C Calhau
Calhau is situated in the far East of the island and is a small fishing village reached by crossing the island on a road that passes between two extinct volcanoes and a well preserved crater. This is an excellent place to sample the local fish and visit the Caves of Topim.
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