Porto Santo is around 27 miles north east of Madeira and is part of the Madeiran archipelago. The airport is in the centre of the island and the runway is long enough for most types of plane to land.

Binter flies between Madeira and Porto Santo and TAP flies there from Lisbon. TUI fly direct from Manchester twice a week at the moment, though these flights could increase in frequency in the coming years.

The main attraction in Porto Santo is the beach which regularly appears on ‘best beaches in Europe / the world’ lists as it’s sandy and around 5-6 miles long depending on who measures it. Either way, it’s a large expanse of golden, soft sand that should satisfy anyone who enjoys beaches.

There are plenty of places to eat food close to the beach and there are several museums in Vila Baleira the major town on the island. There’s the Christopher Columbus house where it’s thought the explorer might have stayed during a visit to the island.

Near the summit of Ana Ferreira peak, the Pedreira viewpoint has wonderful views over the island. The water is warm and clear, making for near ideal diving conditions.