A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy
Calheta de São Miguel: A Hidden Paradise in Cape Verde
Introduction
Calheta de São Miguel is a small but charming town located on the island of Santiago, in the archipelago of Cape Verde. This place, although not as well-known as other cities in Cape Verde, offers a unique mix of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and genuine hospitality that makes it a must-visit tourist destination.
Location and Geography
Calheta de São Miguel is located on the east coast of the island of Santiago, the largest in the Cape Verde archipelago. The town is surrounded by green and fertile hills that contrast with the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is dry tropical, with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
Tourist Attractions
Calheta de São Miguel is famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, diving, and water sports. The town is also known for its colonial architecture, with well-preserved historic buildings dating back to the 17th century.
One of the main attractions of the town is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, a beautiful baroque-style church that is one of the oldest buildings in Cape Verde. Another place of interest is the Municipal Market, where visitors can buy local products, such as fruits, vegetables, fresh fish, and handmade crafts.
In the surroundings of Calheta de São Miguel, visitors can explore the Serra Malagueta Natural Reserve, a national park that is home to a wide variety of endemic flora and fauna. They can also visit the city of Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, which is only an hour's drive away.
Culture and Traditions
The culture of Calheta de São Miguel is a mix of African and Portuguese influences, reflected in its music, dance, cuisine, and festivities. The town is famous for its annual music festival, the Calheta Festival, which attracts musicians and visitors from all over the world.
The local cuisine is another attraction of Calheta de São Miguel. Visitors can taste traditional dishes such as cachupa, a stew of corn and beans with meat or fish, and grogue, a brandy made from sugarcane.
Gastronomic Products of Calheta
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Cachupa
Calheta is famous for its Cachupa, a traditional stew from Cape Verde. This dish consists of corn, beans, and pork or fish, although recipes can vary. It is a hearty and nutritious dish that is often served with homemade bread.
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Grogue
Grogue is a sugarcane brandy produced in Calheta. This strong liquor is an important part of Cape Verde culture and is used for both celebrations and traditional medicine. In Calheta, you can visit a Grogue distillery to see how this liquor is produced and taste it directly from the source.
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Fresh Fish
Given its location on the coast, Calheta is an excellent place to enjoy fresh fish. Local fishermen catch a variety of species, including tuna, swordfish, and grouper. The fish can be enjoyed grilled, baked, or in a stew, and it is always a delicious and healthy option.
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Tropical Fruits
Calheta is also known for its tropical fruits, including mangoes, papayas, and bananas. These fruits can be enjoyed fresh or can be used to make jams and desserts. Fresh fruit is an important part of the local diet and adds a touch of sweetness to any meal.
Outstanding Gastronomic Places in Calheta
Calheta, in Cape Verde, is a place full of charm and tradition. Its gastronomy is a reflection of its rich culture and heritage, offering a wide variety of flavors and aromas. Below, we present some of the most outstanding gastronomic places in the area:
Marisqueira Chez Pastis Restaurant
This restaurant is famous for its excellent seafood and fresh fish. Located in a traditional house overlooking the sea, Marisqueira Chez Pastis offers a unique culinary experience. The most popular dishes include grilled lobster, grilled octopus, and the fresh fish of the day. The atmosphere is cozy and the service is friendly and efficient.
O Caranguejo Restaurant
Located in the heart of Calheta, O Caranguejo is a restaurant that offers a wide variety of local and international dishes. Its specialty is crab, which is served in various ways, from salads to main dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and the service is friendly, making it an excellent choice for a quiet meal.
O Pescador Tavern
This tavern is a popular place among locals and tourists for its excellent food and cozy atmosphere. It offers a wide variety of fish and seafood dishes, as well as a selection of local wines. The O Pescador tavern is a perfect place to enjoy an authentic and tasty meal in Calheta.
Sporting Activities in Calheta, Cape Verde
Hiking and Trekking
Calheta in Cape Verde offers stunning hiking routes. You can explore the Serra Malagueta Natural Park and enjoy the panoramic views of the island.
Sport Fishing
Sport fishing is very popular in Calheta, especially deep sea fishing. You can rent a boat and spend the day at sea in search of blue marlins, tunas and dorados.
Surfing and Kitesurfing
The beaches of Calheta are ideal for surfing and kitesurfing. Ponta Preta beach is especially popular among surfers due to its big waves and strong winds.
Diving
The crystal clear water of Calheta is perfect for diving. You can explore the coral reefs, swim with tropical fish and, if you're lucky, even see sea turtles.
Places near Calheta
If you are in Calheta and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:
JourneyGourmet
2 de Noviembre de 2023
Cabo_verde
