The islet of Vila Franca do Campo

Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo
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The incredible islet of the Green Island

On the green island of São Miguel there is a natural treasure in its sea: the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, also known as the Princess Ring.

The Ilhéu, located in front of Vila Franca do Campo about 1 kilometer from the coast, is the result of an underwater eruption. The natural pool inside is about 150 meters in diameter, in which it is possible to swim and snorkel. There is also a 32-meter high rock on the outside of the islet that was nicknamed Farilhão. Due to the richness and diversity of the fauna and flora existing on the Ilhéu, it was classified as a Natural Reserve. Its walls are covered with endemic vegetation.

It is one of the main tourist attractions on the island. The Vila Franca do Campo islet is one of the hallmarks of the entire Azores Archipelago. A unique and truly paradisiacal landscape. This is where the stage of the world cliff diving championship, Red Bull Cliff Diving, takes place.

The water inside the islet is warmer than outside, as the small opening of the pool faces the coast of the island, thus preventing the waves from entering and the water remaining warmer.

There are no inhabitants on the islet. Only sea birds such as shearwaters and terns and other marine beings such as hidalgo crabs. On the islet there is a bathroom infrastructure and lifeguards.

A different and memorable activity to discover this part of São Miguel Island is our full-day whale and dolphin watching tour,with a stop at the Vila Franca do Campo islet. This expedition takes you to explore the Azores sea and its magnificent cetaceans and also the islet, which is one of the most exclusive bathing areas on the island. Book your experience here.

The visit to the Ilhéu can only be done during the summer between June and October, since its access is controlled with a view to its preservation. Daily departures take place at Cais de Tagarete, in Vila Franca do Campo. Entry is limited to 400 people per day. It is recommended that you schedule your visit in advance. The journey takes about 10 minutes. It is the perfect program to soak up the sun and sea, with family and friends for a day in a completely unique setting.

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