CORVO
Azores elected best destination for 2016 by National Geographic’s dutch magazine “Traveler”.
Azores elected best destination for 2016 by National Geographic’s dutch magazine “Traveler”.
You may reach the island of Corvo either by air or sea. SATA Air - Açores flies regularly to Corvo. From the island of Flores,
you may use the maritime transport to reach Corvo.
Together with the island of Flores, which is only 27,8 km away, Corvo forms the Western Group of the Azores. It is the smallest island of the archipelago, being 6,24 km long and 3,99 km wide, covering an area of 17,5 km². It is placed at 30° 48' W and 39° 40' N, and a population of only about 430 people.
Ii was first sighted in 1452 by the portuguese navigator Diogo de Teive, around the same time the island of Flores was discovered. However, its settlement only happened in 1548, after many failed attempts. Today known as island of Corvo, it was initially named Insula Corvi Marini. Its isolation and small size led to the development of unique agricultural and shepherding characteristics still visible today.
The caldera of the volcano that gave birth to the island, is about 2,3 km wide and 300 m deep. Inside, there are two small lagoons split by tiny islets, in a configuration that resembles the archipelago of the Azores.
Windmills built in black stone, with a dome and triangular sails that spin and constantly follow the winds. Very different from windmills found on other islands of the archipelago, these are closer to the ones left by the Moors in continental Portugal.
Of the sharp cliffs, peaks and hills of Corvo, this one stands out, for it is the highest point of the island reaching an altitude of 718 m.
Basalt formation of lava origin, from the last volcanic eruption in the island. At Pão de Açúcar, you will find a sightseeing spot deserving of your visit, with an extraordinary panoramic view.
Placed in a fajã formed by lava, it is the island's main flat area. The houses are very typical, reflecting the simplicity of the traditions of the people of Corvo.
Following the road that takes us to the interior of the island, you will arrive at Monte Gordo. There you can admire the Caldeirão caldera and its two inner lagoons. Return by the same road, arriving at Vila do Corvo, where you can admire the simplicity of a town built on a fajã of lava origin. You may also visit the sightseeing spot of Morro do Pão de Açúcar.
The wooden locks, still handcrafted today by artisans of Corvo, portray an island that provides, and always provided, a peaceful living. Given its utility, these are the reflection of the craft that most distinguishes the island of Corvo, where everyone knows each other. Embroidery and items made of seashells are other crafts of Corvo, mostly by women. The windmills that dot the coast of Ponta Negra do Corvo reminds us of the past importance that the production of wheat and corn once had.
Despite its small size, and population, the island of Corvo keeps the Festa do Espírito Santo alive through the colorful Império da Vila do Corvo. On 15th August, the Nossa Senhora dos Milagres is celebrated, through the combination of festivities and religious ceremonies. Integrated in the festivities of the island's patron saint is the Festival dos Moinhos, where visiting bands join the local philharmonic orchestra for days filled with fun.
Just as in the island of Flores, the local gastronomy of Corvo is based on products taken from land and sea. The locally produced cornbread is an excellent side dish for traditional meals like the "tortas de erva do calhau", small savory cakes made of seaweed, eggs and flour fried in lard. Corvo is also known for its artisanal cheese, which must ripen for a minimum of 60 days. The "couves de barça", is soaked pork which is then served with sweet potatoes and cornbread.
An island with erudite and rich in sealife ocean floors, making it a marvelous place for diving. We recommend diving in Gamela, a cave inhabited by some species typical of our archipelago. You may also dive in Baixa do Buraco and in Caneiro dos Meros. For fishing lover, be it with buoy, bottom fishing or on a boat, Corvo is a true paradise. You may fish seabream, parrotfish, moray eel, conger eel, grouper, and many other species.
Due to its small dimensions, you can hike around the island and admire its beautiful landscapes. The most relevant hiking trail is the climb to Caldeirão, where you will see the caldera, the lagoon, and the cliffs of the island. Due to its altitude, the area of Caldeirão is great for paragliding. Corvo is also considered the best place in Europe to watch occasional American birds.
Due to the variety of ecosystems in this island, many of them containing elements typical of Macaronesia, Corvo has been declared to be a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.