The rusty towers of Gas Works Park once converted coal and crude oil into gas. After running for half a century and being shut down in 1956, the plant is now the center of a green park on the coast of Seattle and nature is slowly regaining its territories by covering parts of the structure with layers of vegetation. A perfect location for a stroll and a view over Seattle's skyline.

This is Porto Santo’s most popular walk, though it rarely feels crowded, especially if you go first thing in the morning. The well-marked PR1 trail is around 5 km return and threads through the island’s northeastern hills, crossing a protected Natura 2000 area where you can spot native plants, wildflowers, and seabirds. The route is moderately challenging, with some steady climbs, but nothing too demanding for anyone used to hill walking. The reward comes at the viewpoints. Terra Chã looks out over rugged cliffs and deep blue water, while Pico Branco, the island’s second-highest point, offers wide 360-degree views across Porto Santo and the Atlantic beyond. The whole hike typically takes under three hours at an easy, unhurried pace, and at the top, you'll find a few picnic areas if you want to recharge before heading back.

Walk along the main beach towards the southwest, and you’ll eventually reach Ponta da Calheta, where golden sand gives way to dark volcanic rock. It’s a quieter stretch of shore, good for swimming and a favourite spot towards sunset. If you wander onto the rocks, keep an eye on the sea, as waves can catch people out when it’s rough.

Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle is 605 feet high with an observation deck at 520 feet and the rotating SkyCity restaurant at 500 feet. From the top of the Needle one can see not only the Downtown Seattle skyline, but also the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Elliott Bay and surrounding islands.