The Secret of Porto Santo's Golden Sands

If you've ever had the pleasure of visiting the enchanting Portuguese archipelago of Madeira, you've likely marveled at its stunning landscapes, dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.
Yet, if you venture a bit further east to the neighboring island of Porto Santo, you'll be greeted by a rather enchanting surprise - radiant golden sands that stretch as far as the eye can see.

But why is it that Porto Santo has golden shores while Madeira is famous for its darker, pebble beaches? The answer lies in geology and a touch of the island magic.

The Geology Behind

Madeira and Porto Santo share a volcanic origin, born from the same geological processes millions of years ago, although the volcanic activity in Porto Santo ceased a while before it did in Madeira. However, the key difference lies in the composition of their sands.

Madeira's beaches have a darker, volcanic origin, with their sands primarily comprised of basalt and other volcanic minerals. This gives the island its characteristic black and pebbly shores. In contrast, Porto Santo's sands are predominantly composed of a unique mineral called calcareous sand, which is lighter in color and gives the beaches their radiant golden hue.

The Calcarenite Connection

Porto Santo's beaches owe their golden glow to the presence of calcarenite, a type of limestone formed by ancient coral reefs and marine organisms. These were present when the climate was much hotter and were deposited over time on the southern cost of the island.

This calcarenite sand not only gives Porto Santo its distinctive aesthetic but also boasts practical benefits. It doesn't retain heat as much as darker sands, making it more comfortable to walk on, even during the sunniest days.

The Island's Magic Touch

While geology plays a significant role, there's a touch of island magic in the equation as well. Many locals believe that Porto Santo's golden sands hold therapeutic properties. They claim that the sand's natural composition, combined with the island's unique climate, can help alleviate various ailments, including arthritis and rheumatism.

In the end, whether you prefer the golden sands of Porto Santo or the dark, mysterious charm of Madeira's beaches, both islands offer a unique and unforgettable experience, each with its own captivating allure.