São Vicente Holiday rentals & places to stay in Cape Verde

São Vicente at a glance

São Vicente is Cape Verde's culture island: Mindelo, the country's unofficial music capital, is the birthplace of Cesária Évora – and morna and coladeira still drift out of the bars at night. A holiday rental on São Vicente means colonial architecture and colourful markets, harbour cafés, live music and the long city beach Praia de Laginha with Caribbean-turquoise water right in town.

Around Mindelo you'll find the Monte Verde viewpoint, surf and kite spots like São Pedro and Calhau, and boat trips to the uninhabited neighbouring island of Santa Luzia. In February Mindelo celebrates Cape Verde's most famous carnival; in August the Baía das Gatas music festival draws the crowds. And if you fancy hiking, simply hop on the ferry to Santo Antão. Find your accommodation on São Vicente here and enquire directly with the host.