In the western part of the Azores archipelago lies its smallest island: Corvo. This tiny island of just over 17 km² is home to about 400 people who lead an isolated and remote way of life. Traditions are well preserved and the local dialect resembles medieval Portuguese.
Whether you are interested in culture or nature, you will find something for yourself here. Corvo is a popular island for bird watching, part of a UNESCO-registered biosphere reserve. You can also hike, enjoy scenic views, go scuba diving, and visit various museums and churches.
Caldeirão do Corvo (Caldeirão do Corvo)
Occupying most of the northern half of the island, Caldeirão do Corvo is one of the most spectacular craters in the Azores. With bright green pastures on its sides and lagoons in the center, the views from here on a clear day are breathtaking.
From this vantage point, you can follow the PR2 COR trail around the inside of the crater to get a closer look. The circular path is about 5 km and takes two and a half hours.
Vila do Corvo
Walk 4 km from Caldeirão along the Trillo da Cara do Indio and you will reach Vila do Corvo. This is the only settlement on the island and the center of life for locals and tourists. Take time to explore this small town, wander its narrow streets and capture the old houses.
To learn more about the island’s inhabitants and traditions, visit Ecomuseum in the eastern part of town. To learn more about nature and the biosphere reserve, go to the Centro de Intepretação de Aves Selvagens do Corvo (Wild Birdwatching Center on Corvo Island). Here you can immerse yourself in the world of bird watching and learn about the different species of migratory birds that visit Corvo. The center is also home to the last mill on the island, which operated until the 1960s.
Continue down the road toward the coast and you will see the Church of Our Lady of Miracles (Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Milagres). It’s worth going inside to admire the colorful stained glass windows and centuries-old sculptures. When you finish here, walk to the south coast to see the local windmills (Moinhos de Vento), a series of stone windmills overlooking the ocean, lighthouse and airport.
Praia da Areia
This is the only sandy beach on the island and an ideal place to relax at the end of the day. The beach is surrounded by dramatic scenery and volcanic cliffs. You can sometimes see Portuguese naval sailors here, so be on the lookout if you plan to swim.
Best Activities for Kids in Corvo Island
Being a small island, Corvo is the perfect place for families to explore. You can easily get around the island on foot, or if you’re feeling tired, you can call a cab. Cars are usually waiting outside the port, and locals are always willing to help. Cooperation is key in such a small community.
Where to eat in Corvo
There aren’t many restaurants in Corvo. You can bring something for a picnic or try to visit one of the following places:
Caldeirão Restaurant: Located near the airport, this place operates as a restaurant and cafe. It serves a buffet, but you can also order a la carte dishes. Outside you can enjoy a fantastic view of the sea.
BBC Caffé & Lounge: This small café in Vila do Corvo serves dishes like burgers, steaks and francesinhas. It can be quite lively in the summer.
Where to stay in Corvo
Most people only come to Corvo as part of a day trip from Flores, so there aren’t many accommodation options on the island. However, if you’re looking for authentic rural Azorean life, you can choose from one of the following options:
Joe & Vera’s Vintage: This guesthouse is located in the heart of the village, next to the church, and is perfect for exploring Corvo. It offers double and twin rooms with private bathrooms, a kitchenette and a mini library. There is also a terrace from which you can admire beautiful views, and breakfast is included.
Hotel Comodoro: Just a short walk from the airport, this guest house has rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges. Some rooms have access to terraces with mountain and ocean views. The guest house has a shared kitchen and dining area, as well as a lounge and deck. Breakfast is included.
Best times to visit Corvo
Corvo is easiest to reach from Flores Island, so it’s best to visit both islands at the same time. The best time to do this is during the summer months, July through August. During this time of year, temperatures are pleasant but not too hot, and there is almost no rain.
Festivals Corvo
Festas da Nossa Senhora dos Milagres (Festas da Nossa Senhora dos Milagres): One of the best ways to understand and experience this mid-August festival is to stay in Vila do Corvo overnight. Around August 15 every year, the city is taken over by the Nossa Senhora dos Milagres festival. There are musicians, food, drinks, religious ceremonies and a food auction to help fund the festival. The celebration ends with a great fireworks display.