Wrap yourself in complete serenity where only the soothing sound of the ocean and an occasional hee-haw of a donkey is heard; with flat desert-like landscapes, small oases and powder white deserted beaches, Maio in the Cape Verde Islands epitomises a dream island escape.

The gracious capital, Villa Do Maio, exudes an extraordinary laid-back charm with a mix of Portuguese and British colonial style buildings that spread up a small steep hill to a huge white Baroque church. Accommodation ranges from villa apartments, bed and breakfast establishments, bungalow-style lodging as well as modern resort hotels catering to all your needs. Feast on some of Cape Verde’s delicious traditional seafood dishes while listening to the sounds of live Cape Verdean music performed by the locals.

Take a leisurely stroll to the quaint nearby town of Morro well worth a second glance with its pastel painted houses fringed by swaying coconut palm trees. To the north of the island is a shimmering lagoon enveloped by lush mature forest vegetation which is in sharp contrast against the flat salt pans and sand dunes. Enjoy lazy sun-filled days sunbathing and take lingering walks along the breathtaking desolate beaches, visit the salt pans or enjoy quiet contemplation while fishing. Maio’s beaches are also the nesting grounds for sea turtles and bird watchers will be in paradise spotting various species of birdlife which includes rare seabirds.

Untouched and scenic, Maio is picture perfect and undeniably a superb location where you can relent to ultimate relaxation in the midst of heavenly tranquil surroundings.