Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo

Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo

Vila Franca Islet, also known as Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, is a verdant, unpopulated islet situated offshore the south-central coast of São Miguel Island. The entire islet and the waters surrounding it are a protected nature reserve, while at the same time it is a favorite spot for swimming and cliff diving. This unique combination of untouched natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes Vila Franca Islet an attractive destination for nature lovers. The islet's protected status ensures that its delicate ecosystem, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, remains intact and untouched. The islet serves as a breeding ground for several species of marine birds, among them Bulwer's Petrel, Cory's Shearwater, Little Egret and Sooty Tern. Since 2002, it has been recognized as an Important Bird Area. The islet of Vila Franca is the remains of a Surtseyan volcanic cone with a phreatomagmatic origin, which has been heavily eroded over time by the sea and seismic forces. It is made up mainly of basalt and palagonitic tuff, which gives rise to distinctive vertically fractured rock formations that look like columns. The crater of the volcanic cone is open towards the sea and full of water. Because the opening in the crater looks north in the direction of São Miguel, it forms a tiny natural harbor and sandy beach sheltered from the waves. The crystal-clear waters offer a glimpse into the underwater world, teeming with marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral.