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All Portugal Vila Franca Do Campo Islet of Vila Franca do Campo

Islet of Vila Franca do Campo

A perfectly circular lake is formed by the crater of an ancient underwater volcano.

Vila Franca Do Campo, Portugal

Added By
Joshua Foer
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The crystal clear lagoon was once an underwater volcano.   Lusitana/CC BY-SA 3.0
The crystal clear lagoon was once an underwater volcano.   Lusitana/CC BY-SA 3.0
It is ideal for swimming and water sports.   Silveira/Public domain
The islet as seen from the mainland   José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha e Costa/Public domain
Ilhéu da Vila   Jaszmina Szendrey / Atlas Obscura User
  Blindcolour / Atlas Obscura User
  Blindcolour / Atlas Obscura User
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About

If swimming pools and ponds have become too mainstream for a quick swim, perhaps it’s time to take a dip in the crater of an ancient submerged volcano, such as this natural lagoon on the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo in Portugal.

This tiny island is a rocky crater formation off the coast of Sao Miguel. Its main attraction is the circular lagoon on the islet, which is broken up by a tiny channel that connects it with the ocean. The result is a clear and calm pool that is perfect for swimming and diving. 

The islet and this natural pool are accessible only during the summer and their stunning geography has made them a popular destination. Erosion through continuous exposure to wind and water have created different rock formations around the islet, including a fascinating column-like structure.

Over the years, the islet has helped whalers spot their targets and has also served as a military fort. In 1983, the unique location was declared a nature reserve to protect the endemic vegetation around the crater, as well as the crustaceans and birds who have made the islet their home. 

Related Tags

Natural Wonders Volcanoes Craters Pools Swimming Pools Geology Nature
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Added By

Josh

Edited By

Blindcolour, Jaszmina Szendrey, Kavya Ram Mohan, pattileigh

  • Blindcolour
  • Jaszmina Szendrey
  • Kavya Ram Mohan
  • pattileigh

Published

April 28, 2017

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Sources
  • http://www.amusingplanet.com/2014/02/the-islet-of-vila-franca-do-campo.html
  • http://www.magical-azores-islands.com/Vila-Franca.html
Islet of Vila Franca do Campo
Rua Luis Medeiros Rezendes Paiva
Vila Franca Do Campo
Portugal
37.705406, -25.443776
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