Ponta do Sol, at the northern tip of Santo Antão, is a bright little town of painted houses around a small harbour — and the gateway to one of Cape Verde's most photographed walks.
The cliff path to Fontainhas
A narrow road cut into the cliffs climbs from Ponta do Sol to the tiny village of Fontainhas, which sits on a green spur above the sea; beyond it, a cobbled path continues along the coast. The walk is short but spectacular, with sheer drops and huge ocean views; take care and go steadily.
The town
Ponta do Sol itself has a relaxed seafront, good little restaurants and some of the island's nicest guesthouses, making it a fine base for exploring the north coast.
The town at the end of the road
Ponta do Sol is Santo Antão's prettiest base: a small grid of pastel houses on a lava headland, a lighthouse, a wave-battered old pier where boys dive into the swell, and a plaza where the whole town passes through by evening. It has the island's best cluster of guesthouses and restaurants, and enough life to enjoy after a day's walking without ever feeling touristy.
The walk to Fontainhas — and beyond
The cliff path to Fontainhas starts at the edge of town: about an hour each way, carved into the coastal wall with the ocean crashing below. Strong walkers continue to Corvo and Cruzinha, a 4–5 hour, 11.5 km one-way traverse along the cliffs. Arrange an aluguer back from Cruzinha in advance.
Practical information
- 45–60 minutes from Porto Novo ferry by aluguer over the mountain.
- ATM in town, but bring backup cash — it sometimes empties.
- Fish restaurants on the seafront are excellent; book dinner at busy times.
- Swimming is unsafe off the headland; locals use sheltered rock pools.
- Full route detail: Ponta do Sol to Cruzinha route guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Fontainhas walk?
A short but spectacular cliff-path walk from Ponta do Sol to the tiny village of Fontainhas, perched on a green spur above the sea.
Is Ponta do Sol worth staying in?
Yes — it's a relaxed northern town with good restaurants and guesthouses, ideal for exploring Santo Antão's coast.