At just over 430 metres high, Pico do Castelo feels a little different from the island’s other viewpoints. It’s greener, quieter, and layered with history. The summit is dotted with conifers, a rare sight on an otherwise dry island. A cannon and the remains of a 16th-century fortress, built to protect the population from pirate attacks, mark its past as a defensive lookout. You can reach the top either as part of the PR2 hiking trail or by tackling the short, steep climb from Vereda do Pico do Facho, which takes about 15–20 minutes on foot. The payoff is a wide view over much of Porto Santo, and on clear days, even Madeira on the horizon.

If you’re based on Porto Santo and fancy a glimpse of its sister island, a day trip to Madeira is doable. A daily ferry connects the two in just over 2 hours each way, with plenty of Atlantic views to enjoy along the journey. Once in Funchal, you can wander colourful markets, historic streets, and lush botanical gardens, or take the cable car up to Monte for sweeping vistas. A same-day return is possible if you start early, but it does make for a long day. Most travellers prefer staying at least one night on Madeira to explore at a more relaxed pace.

The view from Vättaberget is one of the most photographed in Sweden and well worth the 1-hour drive from Sundsvall city. In the summer, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or light refreshments at the Vättaberget café. You can also visit some of the old buildings on site, such as the blacksmith's shop. In the winter, it's the ski slope that attracts visitors.

Here at the Manoli museum, visitors can stroll through a heavenly garden with almost 300 different imaginative art objects to enjoy. There are guided tours during July and August but guests can also find information in leaflets in French, English and German or in audio-guides in French and English.