With dramatic scenery often compared to the likes of Hawaii and Iceland, it’s hard to believe this ‘remote gem’ isn’t saturated with holidaymakers. The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal stranded in the middle of the Atlantic, has somehow found a perfect balance: it attracts enough visitors to help boost its economy, but hasn’t been left drowning with an influx of selfie-stick-waving tourists.
Last year, the archipelago, which consists of nine islands, witnessed a record-breaking 2.9 million overnight stays. But, compared to the Canary Islands (which brought in a whopping 15.5 million international visitors), this number seems like a mere drop in the ocean.
Many flock over to the biggest island, São Miguel, which in 2023 reportedly accounted for 67.1 per cent of overnight stays in hotels and local accommodation. This was followed by the Terceira islands (12.9 per cent), Pico (6.6 per cent), and Faial (six per cent).
Corvo Island, the smallest and northernmost island of the archipelago, is left off most people’s radar – despite its endless beauty. Most people will visit the island just for the day thanks to regular boat rides from Flores – but staying overnight allows you to really appreciate what the island has to offer.
Despite having a population of just 435 residents, Corvo is jammed-pack with things to do and is considered by UNESCO to be a World Biosphere Reserve. It’s the perfect place for hikers and nature enthusiasts, home to a plethora of challenging walks that reward visitors with breathtaking vistas. Morro dos Homens, the island’s highest peak, is definitely one to add to your bucket list – as it takes you through varying terrains with lush greenery and unique flora and ends with panoramic views of the island. You’ll feel like you’re literally at the top of the world.
Dolphins and seabirds can often be spotted along the coast, and thanks to its laid-back, calm, atmosphere – Corvo is a literal paradise for bird watchers. Be sure to keep an eye peeled for Cory’s shearwaters, Balearic shearwaters, and Storm petrels, even while you’re basking in the sun with a cocktail in hand.
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“Vila do Corvo, the only settlement on Corvo Island is a charming village that captures the essence of rural Azorean life,” hails travel experts over at Azores Getaways. “Visitors are invited to stroll through its narrow streets, where they can admire the traditional Azorean architecture that characterises the houses. The village provides an intimate glimpse into the daily life of the islanders, with opportunities to interact with the friendly local community, who are known for their warm hospitality.” Here, you’ll also find the beautiful church of Nossa Senhora dos Milagres.
Magic pursues even when you’re underwater, as Corvo is a great place for divers and snorkelers. Expect to marvel at large schools of blue jack mackerels, as well as yellow mouth barracudas, Almaco jacks, and Bermuda chubs. If you’re wanting a more restful holiday, head down to Portinho da Areia, the island’s only beach boasting black volcanic sand.
Getting to Corvo Island isn’t the easiest, which perhaps explains its lack of tourism. First, you’ll need to fly to Ponta Delgada in São Miguel. You can get flights to here from many UK airports but the journey will likely include a stopover in mainland Portugal. Once in São Miguel, you’ll then have to get another flight over to Corvo Island, but this may also require a stopover at Horta Airport, located on Faial Island. Again, routes for this flight are limited – and therefore can get pricey.
Naturally, accommodation on the island is sparse and can be quite extortionate compared to other destinations in Portugal. For example, a week’s stay (Monday, April 7-14) in a one-bedroom holiday home will set you back £764. A more bog-standard twin room costs £500 on the exact same dates.
*Prices based on booking.com listings at the time of writing. Only three accommodation types were available for the above dates.
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