'Paradise' island is home to incredible 'natural phenomenon' that rarely occurs
Share:
A tiny Portuguese paradise islet offers a fun day out for visitors, boasting a rare natural phenomenon. Located less than a mile from the coast the idyllic Islet of Vila Franca do Campo is the result of an ancient submerged volcano's crater. It houses a naturally circular lagoon, known as the "Princess Ring". The lagoon connects to the sea via a narrow channel called "Boquete." which faces north towards São Miguel's coast, preventing North Atlantic waves from entering.
The lagoon's crystal clear waters and small yet beautiful beach are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. In fact, it's a regular stop on the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, last held there in 2019. Professional divers leap from heights of 27 meters for men and 21 meters for women, making it a spectacular event to watch, usually taking place between June and July. "Ilhéu de Vila Franca is not only some beach of the Azores, nor just a Nature reserve. It is much more than that - a little paradise," writes Azores Adventures Futurismo, reports the Express.
The islet of Vila Franca is the result of an ancient submarine volcano that forms part of the Fogo volcanic complex, which erupted around 5,000 years ago. The semi-circular islet measures approximately six hectares (15 acres) in area and its highest point is about 62 metres above sea level.
The islet boasts a rich human history. The Boquette channel isn't natural - it was widened by locals to accommodate larger boats during the seismic crisis in 1522, with the islet serving as a refuge when Vila Franca do Campo was destroyed by an earthquake.
