Just a short boat ride from Flores lies Corvo, the smallest of the Azorean islands — but don’t let its size fool you. This pint-sized paradise is a place of powerful beauty and quiet wonder.
Corvo Island spans just 17.11 km² and is home to approximately 435 residents, all residing in the island’s sole settlement, Vila do Corvo . This tight-knit community thrives amidst the island’s rugged landscapes, maintaining traditions that have been passed down through generations. Despite its diminutive size, this remote island offers a wealth of natural beauty, rich history, and unique experiences for intrepid travelers seeking tranquility and adventure.
The history of Corvo is marked by resilience and a deep connection to faith. Settled definitively in 1548, the island’s inhabitants have faced challenges ranging from isolation to pirate threats . Despite these hardships, the community has preserved its cultural heritage, evident in the island’s architecture and local customs.
Must Visit Places
Caldeirão
Dominating the heart of Corvo Island, the Caldeirão is a vast volcanic crater that defines both the geography and identity of this remote Azorean outpost. Formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, the caldera spans approximately 2.3 km in diameter and plunges more than 300 meters deep. What remains is a majestic natural amphitheater — its steep, green walls often veiled in low-hanging clouds and dotted with moss, ferns, and wildflowers.
The sense of scale is humbling. Standing at the Miradouro da Caldeira (Caldera Viewpoint), the entire island seems to unfold around you, with the Atlantic stretching beyond the crater’s rim like a distant infinity. Depending on the weather, the view may shift from bright and sunlit to moody and mystical within minutes — adding to the almost otherworldly atmosphere of the place.
Local legends whisper that the miniature islets inside the caldera’s lake represent the islands of the Azores archipelago, as if nature carved a map within the earth. Whether you’re a hiker, a geologist, or simply a dreamer, the Caldeirão stirs a sense of wonder and invites quiet contemplation amid its dramatic beauty.
Lagoa do Caldeirão
At the base of the Caldeirão lies Lagoa do Caldeirão, a serene lake formed from rainwater collecting inside the crater. This natural reservoir is surrounded by lush, emerald-green meadows and volcanic rocks softened by layers of moss. The lake mirrors the sky like glass — sometimes silver and bright, other times dusky and cloud-covered — creating a meditative stillness that’s hard to describe and harder to forget.
The area around the lagoon is home to endemic Azorean flora, such as the Azores juniper and heather, and is a nesting ground for migratory birds like the Cory’s shearwater. Birdsong echoes gently across the caldera, accompanied only by the rustling of the wind in the grasses and the occasional splash of waterfowl.
Lagoa do Caldeirão is a perfect stop during the Volta ao Caldeirão hike, and for those not hiking, it’s accessible via a short walk from the nearby viewpoint parking area. Photographers will find endless inspiration here, especially during the golden light of early morning or late afternoon.
Ponta do Marco
Situated on the western edge of Corvo Island, Ponta do Marco offers one of the most striking oceanfront vistas in the Azores. This windswept promontory rises abruptly from the sea, presenting panoramic views over the churning Atlantic and the steep cliffs that characterize the island’s coastline. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Flores Island in the distance, its silhouette floating like a mirage on the horizon.
Reaching Ponta do Marco usually involves a short but steep hike or drive from Vila do Corvo, winding past traditional pastures and ancient stone walls. Along the way, you may encounter grazing cows, seabirds circling overhead, and fields of wildflowers bending in the ocean breeze.
Once at the edge, you’ll be met with the full force of nature — crashing waves below, howling winds above, and the unmistakable scent of salt and sea. There’s a small lighthouse structure nearby, adding to the dramatic maritime atmosphere. It’s a spot that perfectly captures Corvo’s isolated majesty — where Europe ends, and the open ocean begins.
Flora and Fauna: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Thanks to its isolation, Corvo has become a magnet for rare bird species. It’s an important stopover for migratory birds and home to some of the Azores’ most sought-after avian residents. Fall is especially popular with birdwatchers hoping to spot transatlantic species resting on their long journey. The island also supports unique plant life, including endemic mosses and hardy flowers adapted to its volcanic soil.
Culture and Community
Though small, Corvo has a rich cultural tapestry. The island’s only village, Vila do Corvo, is a cluster of whitewashed houses and cobbled lanes. Here, life moves at a gentle pace, shaped by fishing traditions, storytelling, and a deep respect for the land and sea.
- Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora dos Milagres: This 16th-century church is the spiritual heart of the community. With its traditional azulejo tiles and centuries-old religious art, it stands as a symbol of the island’s enduring faith.
- Festas de São João: Each June, the island bursts into celebration with music, dancing, and processions in honor of Saint John. It’s a rare and joyful glimpse into Corvo’s vibrant spirit.
Hiking Trails
Although small, Corvo still offers a great hiking opportunities. Consult the Visit Azores Website to download your complete list of available trails, maps and GPS coordinates. Below a couple of moderate hikes, suitable also for families with kids who are used to walk all day.
Volta ao Caldeirão Trail (PRC2 COR)
Distance: ~7 km (4.3 miles)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: ~300 meters
This circular route is Corvo Island’s most iconic hike, leading you around the rim of the dramatic Caldeirão crater — the island’s central geological wonder. The trail starts from a small parking area near the crater’s edge and loops around its circumference, offering constantly changing views of the verdant volcanic interior and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
Inside the crater, you’ll spot two serene lakes and several small islets, which some locals believe represent the layout of the Azorean archipelago itself. Along the way, you’ll walk through volcanic grasslands, wildflower meadows, and moss-covered ridges, with views that are often enhanced by the island’s misty, atmospheric weather.
The path can be muddy and slippery after rain, so waterproof boots are advised. This trail runs along exposed ridgelines, so if you are walking with kids, pay and extra attention. Be careful also because it can be windy. However, when the skies are clear, the 360-degree views from the crater’s high points are absolutely unforgettable — a true immersion into Corvo’s raw, untouched landscape.
Cara do Índio Trail
Distance: ~6 km (3.7 miles) one way
Duration: 2–2.5 hours (each way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: ~250 meters
Named after a striking rock formation resembling a Native American profile (“Cara do Índio” means “Face of the Indian”), this lesser-known trail offers a journey along Corvo’s rocky coastal cliffs and open pastures, mixing natural beauty with cultural lore.
The route begins in Vila do Corvo and heads toward the west of the island, ascending gradually through farmland before reaching the coastal cliffs that define Corvo’s rugged perimeter. As you continue, you’ll pass lava flows, endemic plants, and scenic stone walls that trace Corvo’s centuries-old agricultural plots.
The highlight comes as you approach the rock formation itself — the “face” is best seen from a distance, where the eroded volcanic stone seems to gaze silently toward the horizon. This is an ideal spot for a break or a picnic, as seabirds wheel overhead and the only sounds are wind and waves far below.
If you’re not keen to retrace your steps, you can arrange a return via local taxi (when available), though I advice you to enjoy the full round-trip for the diverse perspectives it offers on both legs.
How to get there?
There are no direct international flights to Corvo, and no direct flights from other Azorean islands except Flores. You will need to plan a connecting journey through one of the larger islands in the archipelago, then fly to Flores and finally hop on a small plane to Corvo.
First, book a flight to the Azores. The most common gateways are:
- Ponta Delgada (PDL) – São Miguel Island
- Lajes (TER) – Terceira Island
- Horta (HOR) – Faial Island
From mainland Portugal (Lisbon, Porto) or some major European cities, you can fly to these airports via Azores Airlines (SATA) or TAP Air Portugal.
As said, Corvo does not receive direct flights from other islands. You must first get to Flores Island (FLW) — its neighboring island just 17 km away.
- SATA Air Açores operates regular domestic flights from Ponta Delgada, Terceira, or Faial to Flores Island.
Flights to Flores can fill up quickly in high season, so it’s wise to book early.
Once on Flores, you have two options to reach Corvo:
1. Ferry (Recommended in Summer Months)
- A passenger ferry runs between Santa Cruz das Flores and Vila do Corvo.
- Operated by Atlânticoline, the trip takes about 40 minutes.
- Schedules vary by season and weather, with more frequent crossings from May to October.
2. Small Plane
- SATA Air Açores also operates a very short flight (around 15 minutes) between Flores and Corvo.
- This is the fastest and most convenient method, especially in the off-season or during rough seas.
- Flights are limited and typically use small twin-prop planes, so book well in advance.
How to move around the island?
My favorite thing about Corvo? It’s walk-able and you don’t really need a car. In fact there is no car rental on the island. If you really must hire a car, you have to do that on Flores and then catch a ferry to Corvo. I advise to explore the island on foot. Cars are not forbidden and of course locals drive vehicles but I think that it’s really special to visit the island only on foot.
Accommodation
The island offers a handful of charming, family-run accommodations that reflect the island’s peaceful, authentic character. Most are located in or near Vila do Corvo, the island’s only village, and provide cozy, simple comforts with stunning views of the Atlantic or the island’s interior. I stayed at Joe & Vera’s vintage Place. This little guest house is set on a hillside overlooking the village and the ocean. Recently renovated this place combines traditional Azorean architecture with stylish, rustic interiors. You will love the panoramic sea views, the warm hospitality, and the serene garden — perfect for watching the sunset or enjoying a quiet morning coffee. A huge plus are the bicycles available for guests. You can book directly on their website here or simply call them.
Nomadlytics 
Leave a comment