The small, remote island of Corvo, located in the Portuguese Azores archipelago, is a paradise for adventurers and nature-lovers alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique culture, Corvo is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the Azores’ hidden gems. Corvo is the smallest and most isolated of the nine Azorean islands, located just north of Flores in the westernmost part of the archipelago. It is only 8.5 square miles in size, and with a population of just over 400 people, Corvo is the least populous of all the Azorean islands.
Despite its small size, Corvo is home to a thriving ecosystem and a unique culture that make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The island’s stunning landscapes include a stunningly beautiful caldera, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. The caldera is surrounded by lush vegetation, including a variety of endemic and migratory birds, as well as wild horses and goats. Corvo is also home to a number of archaeological sites, including a 16th-century fort and the ruins of a former monastery. In addition to its natural beauty, Corvo is known for its unique culture. The island’s population is mostly composed of locals whose families have lived on Corvo for generations.
As such, the island’s culture has remained largely unchanged for centuries, with traditional music, cuisine, and customs still thriving today. The best way to experience Corvo is to go on a hiking adventure. There are several trails on the island, ranging from easy to moderate, offering stunning views of the island’s landscape and wildlife. For a truly unique experience, visitors can also take a boat tour around the island, which will allow them to see the island from a different perspective. Overall, Corvo is a stunningly beautiful and unique destination for anyone looking to explore the Azores. With its diverse wildlife, stunning scenery, and unique culture, Corvo offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous outdoor experience, Corvo is the perfect destination for your next Azorean adventure.
Corvos first settlers were Portuguese and Flemish colonists arriving in the early 15th century. The island was initially colonized by the Flemish, who were the first to settle on the island. This was followed by the arrival of the Portuguese in the early 16th century.
The island was named after its first settlers, the Corvos, a Flemish family who arrived in the first half of the 15th century. The name Corvo is derived from the Portuguese word for „crow“ and is believed to be a reference to the Corvos‘ dark hair.
In the 16th century, Corvo was an important part of Portugal’s maritime empire. The island was an important port of call for ships sailing between Europe and the New World. The island was also an important source of food and supplies for sailors. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the island was a center for fishing and whaling, as well as a major trading port.
In the 19th century, the island saw a decline in its economic importance due to the rise of new transportation networks and international trade routes. During this period, Corvo also suffered from a series of natural disasters, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
How to get there
The most convenient way to get to Corvo is by plane. There are direct flights to Corvo Airport (CVU) from the Azorean capital of Ponta Delgada, on the island of São Miguel. The flight takes around 20 minutes and is operated by SATA Air Azores. You can also get to Corvo by ferry, but the journey is much longer. The ferry departs from Faial and takes around seven hours to reach Corvo.
