Sao Vicente is an island of Cape Verde. Discovered on St.Vincents Day (the 22nd of January), in 1462, the island remained practically uninhabited until the middle of the XIX century. It was only in 1838, when a coal deposit was established in PORTO GRANDE to supply ships on the Atlantic routes, that the population started to grow. Due to the lack of rain and consequent lack of natural resources, the economy of S.Vicente is based mainly on commerce and services. The town of MINDELO was named in honour of the liberal troops who disembarked on the beach of the some name in the north of Portugal.

MINDELO became an important port as it was a stopping point for ships from all over the world and sailors of many nationalities met together in the local bars and cafés. At the same time, the town became on important cultural centre where music, literature and sports were encouraged and developed.

Sights

Through the National Handicraft Centre and a number of workshops, the local handicraft of S.Vicente has begun to recuperate; particularly in the practice of weaving very distinct fabrics. Ceramics, batik, articles made from coconut shells and necklaces made from shells and stones are also other examples now to be found on the island.

Windsurfing has excellent facilities here. The beach of São Pedro is considered to be one of the best for windsurfing as many international champions have discovered.

A long restful walk along the coastal road is an excellent wayy to discover this area. One can also have a view of "Monte Cara" (the Face Mountain) which is so called due to the great resemblance it does in fact have to a human face, porticularly at sun set. Cycling and horseback riding are other forms of entertainment to choose from in S.Vicente.

The English presence in the island has also left its mark in sports, particularly in golf. An excellent field of 18 holes constitutes a good alternative for lovers of this pastime.

Mindelo has well laid out streets and examples af English architecture. There are monuments from colonial times and a beautiful avenue running along the length of the shore.

Night life is animoted by the swaying rhythm of the local music in the bars and discotheques.

This beautiful bay, a ten minute car drive away, is a magnificent natural pool surrounded by unusual and quite beautiful scenery.

Porto do Calhau is reached by crossing the island in an east/west direction, on a road that passes between two extinct volcanos and a well preserved crater. En route, it is interesting to stop at the Caves of Topim and also visit the nearby beach. The small, mainly agricultural forms that supply the town are also interesting to see.