Monte Trigo Road | Porto Novo City

Monte Trigo Road winds along the southwestern slopes of Santo Antão, connecting the small coastal settlement of Monte Trigo with inland valleys and trails that lead toward the island’s interior. The road is narrow and winding, carved into volcanic slopes and hugging ridges that rise sharply above the Atlantic Ocean. The air carries a mix of sea salt and the earthy aroma of the volcanic terrain, and the occasional breeze amplifies the sense of exposure along its higher stretches.

Landscape and Surroundings
The road offers dramatic views of the rugged coastline, steep cliffs, and terraced farmland clinging to the slopes. Small streams occasionally cross or run adjacent to the road, nourishing patches of shrubs, maize, and fruit trees. Beyond cultivated areas, the terrain is rocky and volcanic, with black stones and jagged outcrops framing the path. The road is often bordered by low stone walls built to prevent erosion and guide travelers through the difficult terrain.

Local Life and Use
Monte Trigo Road serves as a lifeline for residents of the remote coastal village and nearby farms. Local people use it to transport goods, access markets, and travel between settlements. Livestock and farm equipment often share the path with small vehicles, and occasional roadside chapels or shrines punctuate the journey, reflecting the spiritual connection of locals to the land.

Visitor Experience
Traveling along Monte Trigo Road provides both adventure and striking vistas. Drivers or hikers experience the winding curves, sudden drops, and panoramic views over the ocean and valleys below. The combination of rugged scenery, cultivated terraces, and the Atlantic horizon creates a constantly changing visual landscape. Travelers often pause at small viewpoints to take in the sweeping coastline, watch the waves crash against volcanic cliffs, or observe local farming life.

Connection to the Coast and Island Interior
The road links Monte Trigo with inland valleys, including paths toward higher mountains and ridges of western Santo Antão. Its position along the southwestern coast allows travelers to experience the island’s dramatic transition from steep volcanic slopes to the ocean, providing both practical access for locals and a scenic route for visitors exploring the remote western regions.

Closing Impression
Monte Trigo Road is a lifeline through rugged terrain and a corridor of stunning landscapes. Its winding path, dramatic coastal views, and connection to local life make it both an adventurous route and a vivid introduction to the wild, remote beauty of Santo Antão’s southwestern coast.