Lying some 55 kilometers south of the main island is Ilha de Santa Maria which is 18 kilometers in length and 9.5 kilometers wide.

The island of Santa Maria lies southwest of Sao Miguel, and features an airport that was a World War II American airforce base; it has now been appropriated as a civil airport. The main town on the island is Vila do Porto, which has only one hotel but several inns and private villas for rent.

The slopes are like colossal staircases covered in vineyards. The typical slender, elegant chimneys serve as a reminder that early setters hailed from the south of the Portuguese mainland. From the pages of history of Vila do Porto and Anjos, where Columbus set foot after his first trip to America. This is the charming island of Santa Maria, bathed in constant sunlight. Beaches, stunning scenery.

Holidays that dreams are made of Santa Maria boasts the Azores' most exquisite beaches with its deep alluring bays-and enjoys the most hours of sunshine. Its waves are fit to challenge the most adept of surfers.

Vila do Porto, Santo Espirito, Anjos and Sao Pedro are all locations that offer visitors impressive churches, convents and fortresses which take you back to days gone by.

During a stay in Santa Maria treat yourself to fresh fish, savoury limpets and barnacles freshly plucked off the rocks. Partake of desserts created from traditional recipes. And don't forget to take a sample of local arts and crafts and a longing sentiment to return.