In a windswept car park on an island in the Atlantic Ocean, we ventured into a 100-yard rock tunnel, only to emerge at the brink of a vast crater that offered a surreal and cinematic view. The volcanic landscape before us, painted in ochre, pinks, and whites, resembled a Mars-like setting, albeit with a lake below. This extraordinary scene unfolded at the Pedra de Lume salt flats on Sal island in Cape Verde.
The lake, with a salinity more than 20 times that of the sea and double that of the Dead Sea, is a unique attraction where visitors can effortlessly float on the surface due to its high salt content. Local belief in the skin-rejuvenating properties of the brine has led many to swear by its ability to make people appear younger. While not a Benjamin Button transformation, the experience of floating is both enjoyable and attention-grabbing, especially when even minor skin abrasions sting noticeably in the salty water.
Access to the salt flats is priced at €6, with an additional €1 for a freshwater shower post-experience. Facilities on-site include a small café and a souvenir shop that prefer cash payments. Cape Verde, positioned 350 miles off Senegal’s western coast, is increasingly becoming a popular destination for British tourists seeking a predominantly relaxation-focused holiday. The island’s appeal lies in its tropical climate year-round, minimal jet lag due to its southerly location, and a manageable six-hour flight duration from the UK.
During our stay, we opted for the upscale Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, a five-star beachfront property located on the outskirts of Santa Maria, the primary tourist hub on the island. The resort boasts excellent amenities such as attentive service, spacious rooms, a central pool area, a luxurious spa, and various water sports activities by the breezy ocean. Its proximity to Santa Maria’s town center, accessible via a beachside promenade, makes it a convenient choice for visitors seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.
A highlight of the hotel is the Bounty Beach Restaurant and Bar, a sophisticated yet relaxed venue offering stunning sea views and a menu featuring delectable dishes like the chicken Caesar salad, regional Strela lager, and quality Cape Verdean wines. The establishment’s ambiance and culinary offerings make it a must-visit spot for guests. Additionally, we indulged in a leisurely catamaran ride in the Atlantic Ocean with the friendly crew from Cape Verde Sailing, where we not only enjoyed the ocean views but also witnessed playful skipjack tunas leaping out of the water.
After our aquatic adventure, we savored a lunch of skipjack tuna steak at the traditional Hotel Morabeza, the oldest hotel on the island with a rich history dating back to the 1960s. This charming establishment, also available through easyJet holidays, features a beach club and serves a satisfying chicken Caesar salad among its culinary offerings. The peaceful atmosphere and seaside setting made it a delightful place to linger, albeit briefly before departing for the airport.
Despite our short visit, the allure of Cape Verde’s unique charms left a lasting impression. With its distinct character and captivating landscapes, this destination promises a memorable experience for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and discovery. For those considering a getaway, easyJet holidays offers a seven-night stay at the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort in Santa Maria, starting from £882 per person, inclusive of flights from Gatwick, 23kg baggage allowance, and transfers. More information about Cape Verde can be found at caboverde.com.
