And again, we all have to go on a fascinating journey through the most beautiful corners of our planet. What awaits us this time? Where do we go for the thrill and first-class shots? Guess!
I give the first hint: today we will visit a unique island, which fascinates with its beauty and amazing forms. There are options? Then attention, I give a second hint: the island is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and looks like an open ring. Guess what place we are talking about? Yes, this is one of the most picturesque islands, which has been "carved" by nature itself. This is the island of Vila Franca do Campo, which is part of the Azores archipelago.
Read how and where to buy cheap flights in our life hack.
Where is
Vila Franca do Campo is located about 1300 km from the European continent. This island, together with eight others, form a unique archipelago of its kind. The Azores are scattered in small groups of three islands at some distance from each other and represent a picturesque bird's-eye view.
In addition to nine islands, the archipelago includes several more small ones, which can hardly be called other than reefs. It is here that the final point of our tourist route is located.
The island of Vila Franca do Campo was once part of the crater of a huge underwater volcano. It took him thousands of years before an impressive strip of land appeared above the water. That is why the island looks like an incomplete ring. At the same time, one should pay attention to the ideal shape of the ring island.
The history of the island and its features
Once upon a time, the island was used by whalers to find their next victim. In addition, the impregnable cliffs have become a great place to locate a real fortress. Today, Vila Franca do Campo is classified as a nature reserve and you can get to this amazing island only at certain times of the year. The tourist boom is observed here between July and September. In addition, being alone is unlikely to work, because each tourist group must follow their guide.
But once you find yourself on a unique island, you understand the true meaning of the word "exotic". The island of volcanic origin, despite its modest size, can surprise with an impressive range of tourist attractions and give, perhaps, some of the best pictures of your life.
The fact that the island is inhabited by people is also surprising. It cannot be said that they made a choice in favor of a “wild” way of life and ended up on the periphery of civilization. Indeed, despite the remoteness of the island from the continental part of Europe, the locals are always aware of all the events that are happening in the world.
In the very center of the island there is a huge lake, which amazes with its perfectly round shape. The lake is connected to the ocean by a narrow channel, constantly replenishing its water world with new inhabitants.
Anyone who appreciates the unique nature and seeks to learn all its best sides should visit the island at least once in a lifetime. The island of Vila Franca do Campo, without any doubt, will give every tourist vivid emotions and an unforgettable experience of staying in this marvelous place. It is difficult to imagine that somewhere, among the vast surface of the ocean, there could be a more beautiful place.
The famous hero Robinson Crusoe spent many years in captivity on a deserted island. Every day he fought for survival, looking for new ways to return home. But today, I bet there are many who would gladly exchange their measured life in the "stone jungle" of a metropolis for such a piece of paradise.
Many decades have already passed since the moment when the island was a lifeless mass of solidified volcanic lava. Today it is covered with dense vegetation, which harmoniously complements the image of the marvelous island.
Sheer cliffs and excellent diving conditions attract thousands of tourists from all over the world every year. Recently, even one of the stages of the world extreme cliff jumping competition has been held here. It is called "Red Bull Cliff Diving" and is considered an unspoken landmark of the island.
Entertainment on the island
In addition to the bright event, in the form of a championship in jumping into the water from the rocks, everyone who visits the island will have exciting excursions inland, as well as a visit to a lot of local attractions. It is definitely recommended to find time and go on a visit to the parish church named after St. Peter. Not less interesting religious buildings are located nearby - the chapels of St. Catherine and the Holy Mother of God of Concord.
Pottery is especially popular among tourists. Visitors are shown master classes on the production of dishes and original figurines, which are fired in a rather unusual oven. Well, the final point of a small island trip must necessarily be a group of four dragon trees, which are considered the attraction of the Praia settlement.
Of course, the island has all the conditions for active engagement in all types of water sports. The underwater world is of great interest to divers, the sheer cliffs of the island beckon to climb them and rush towards the water surface, and boats scurrying around the area will gladly ride everyone on water skis.
It is better to go to the island at the height of the swimming season. After all, how can you deny yourself the pleasure of spending a few hours under the warm sun, enjoying the beautiful view of the round lake? But it is worth knowing that the island has certain restrictions for tourists. For example, the maximum number of tourists who can stay here at the same time is 400 people. Therefore, take care in advance of purchasing a ticket to the reserve island.
Do not forget to check the condition of your camera. The opening view of the ocean and the lake located in the lagoon will make your heart beat faster, and the sea air here is so fresh that at first you will have to fight its "heady" effect.
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Indeed, a tourist trip to the island of Vila Franca do Campo can give a lot of amazing emotions, vivid impressions and inspire new discoveries. This is one of those few places in the middle of the ocean that you don't want to leave. Even when you find yourself far from this place, even on the other side of the world, you will dream of a unique island of its kind, and the winding paths of the reserve will forever remain in your memory. You will want to come back here again and again, just sit on a rocky ledge, aimlessly looking into the blue distance, and take many, many more pictures.
