Corvo: Volcanic Landscapes, Routes and Island Culture

A volcanic island with an exceptional landscape

Corvo combines a striking volcanic landscape with insights into the life of a small island community. Since 2007, Corvo has been classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under the MAB programme. The defining natural feature is Caldeirão: Corvo is a volcanic island with a caldera at its summit. The crater is 300 metres deep and has a diameter of 2.3 kilometres. From the Caldeirão viewpoint, you can look into this crater.

Inside the Caldeirão are a wetland system and two lagoons. The character of the landscape remains unmistakable outside the crater as well. Natural pastures and dark stone walls separating the properties determine the scenery. Anyone looking for accommodation for a holiday apartment in Corvo as a base for nature experiences will find a place where the landscape is not merely a backdrop but an essential part of the journey.

Routes between the crater, village and Atlantic

Different routes are available for active days. The linear route PR01COR Cara do Índio connects the two important geosites of Caldeirão and Vila do Corvo. It ends at Praia da Areia, the only sandy beach on Corvo. There, you can swim in the Atlantic. The sand consists of small grains resulting from the decomposition of volcanic rocks, volcanic ash and numerous small shells of marine animals.

Another perspective is offered by the circular route PRC02COR Caldeirão. It leads to a collapse caldera on Corvo’s central volcano. This allows you to plan your day according to whether you prefer a linear connection between important landscape and village destinations or a circular route to a volcanic focal point. A boat trip around Corvo complements exploration from land: otherwise inaccessible areas of the island become visible. You can also observe seabirds and marine animals such as dolphins or whales.

Local history, windmills and birdwatching

For the cultural part of your stay, it is worth orienting yourself around the historic centre of Vila do Corvo. From there, you can reach the Corvo Wild Birds Interpretation Centre via Largo do Outeiro, Rua do Outeiro and the path known as Canada do Graciosa. The Centre presents Corvo as a place of high international importance for birdwatching. Several multimedia devices provide information about the nature park and the birdlife of the Azores. The Centre also includes Corvo’s last windmill.

The windmills of Corvo are influenced by Mediterranean architectural forms and built from black stone. Their cupolas and triangular sails constantly turn in the direction of the wind. Another characteristic detail is the basalt-built palheiros. They were used to store agricultural tools and livestock feed. At the church of Nossa Sr.ª dos Milagres, the island’s patron saint is celebrated on 15 August. The church also contains a statue of the saint from the 16th century.

Which location suits your plans

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Corvo, you can first decide on the focus of your trip. If you would like to combine paths through the village, the Interpretation Centre and the island’s ecclesiastical history, Vila do Corvo is a natural reference point for planning your days. For excursions on the water, you should consider the port of Casa, which lies on the southern coast of the island of Corvo. From there, the maritime side of the island can be included in your travel plans without the other landscape experiences fading into the background.

Quieter discoveries are also part of Corvo. The picnic area is home to the island’s largest orchard, with orange, guava, plum, pear and banana trees. This allows you to arrange different daily rhythms between crater views, routes, culture, birdwatching, boat trips and time spent in the landscape. Further destinations: Calheta De Nesquim, San Jorge, Santa Maria, Graciosa, Pico, S.Miguel, Faja De Baixo.

For the higher-level travel overview: Azores.