Maio

If you like the 'road less travelled' then Maio, an island of just 268 sq metres and 6,700 people, might just be an essential stop on your tour of the archipelago.

This quiet island, undiscovered by the tourist trial, was discovered on May 1st, 1460 - which gave rise to its name 'Maio', and prospered initially around salt collecting.

Today it is the sleepy, silent island of the archipelago, yet with a typical Cape Verdean welcome - the Morabeza - that will see islanders welcome you into their homes with an engaging and effortless sense of hospitality.

This forgotten island's indolence is entirely compatible with its landscape, one of flat planes and white sandy beaches, a place that begs you to relax.

Here you can enjoy the tropical, year-round climate and soothing Atlantic breeze during the day and at night mingle freely with the most welcoming of islanders while sampling their delicious cuisine, especially the exotic local seafood dishes.

The welcoming capital, Vila do Porto Inglês, with its huge white baroque Church, is located on one of the most beautiful beaches of the island and, true to its name (Port of the English), it has typical old English architecture. Near the harbour area in the town is the fortress Sao José, built by the Portuguese to fight pirate raids.

The second most populated town is Calheta, a small village where people live off agriculture and fishing. The small town of Morrow, just three miles away, is known for its coconut palms and old streets.

The island has been included in the "Cabo Verde Nature 2000", a University of Las Palmas project specially developed to protect the unique fauna and flora. The island, unlike the rest of Cape Verde, also has a significant tree plantation programme.

The minute grains of the white sandy beaches are used by sea turtles to lay and bury their eggs.

Maio is served by an airstrip just outside the capital and has regular connections from the larger Cape Verde islands. Well worth exploring for a couple of days of timeless relaxation.