Cape Verde Islands

The Cape Verde islands are set wa-a-y south of the Canaries, and wa-a-y off the coast of West Africa, yet they’re only six hours’ flying time from Gatwick. This little string of islands offers guaranteed winter sun, the most spectacular beaches and turquoise seas. But so do plenty of other places. What makes Cape Verde unique is the fact that tourism is a relatively new thing. 

We’ve chosen the island of Boa Vista, because the beaches are some of the best we’ve seen in all our years of travelling. Vast sand dunes lie behind the beaches, with volcanic slopes rising to the greener interior. The cobbled streets of Sal Rei have a laid-back charm, but it’s the sea and the sand that are Boa Vista’s best selling points. Pack a high factor sun-tan cream!

Please note a tourist visa is required for travel to Cape Verde. Friendship Travel will supply this and the £25 charge is included in your holiday cost.

The Club Boa Vista which has now been upgraded to five star, offers an unbeatable beachfront location and outstanding value for money. It’s a low-rise, colourful holiday village set right on Areja de Chaves beach, with the Atlantic Ocean rolling in just a few yards away.

There’s a large free-form pool to enjoy and a whole host of activities on offer, from aerobics to Pilates, archery and rifle shooting, boules, beach volleyball and step classes. The watersports (weather permitting) include catamaran sailing, windsurfing and snorkelling. Kite surfing is also popular on the island, taking advantage of the Atlantic breezes, which are pretty strong.

The public areas make the most of the stunning beach views, with both a buffet and an à la carte restaurant as well as a choice of four bars. Due to the spreadout nature of the site, and the dunes, Club Boa Vista is not suitable for those with walking difficulties.

The rooms are set in colour-washed bungalows behind the beach, each with a little garden and decorated in contemporary style with colourful African accents. Each room has two beds set side-by-side-and each also has an ensuite shower room. You can upgrade to a side sea view room from £10 per night. 

• Return transfers from/to Boa Vista airport (approx. 10 mins)
• Twin room for sole use 
• All meals including themed dinners
• All drinks by the glass, 24 hours a day
• Aqua gym and water polo. 
• Full day-time activity programme
• Evening entertainment
• Friendship Host at your disposal throughout
• Return flights from Gatwick airport, withCAA bonding for financial peace of mind.