Ilhéu de Vila Franca

This is a tiny islet just off the shores of Vila Franca do Campo and it is one of the greatest leisure attractions during summertime. Its north shore, facing Vila Franca do Campo, has the shape of a large semicircle, creating a beautiful atoll in its interior, surrounded by paradisiacal beaches providing ideal conditions for all kinds of water sports. The islet offers some more beautiful beaches as well as a large water park. Through the combined powers of the sea and the wind, surrounding rocks and cliffs eroded into strange shapes, among which a rock formation that looks like an ancient column. In order to preserve the valuable environment of this islet, it has become a nature reserve. From June to September, the Ilhéu can be reached by a regular boat service, which leaves at Tagarete, Vila Franca do Campo’s harbour.

Islet Vila Franca

View from Vila Franca do Campo