The Azores are known for their volcanic landscapes and the strong connection between land and sea. Among lagoons, cliffs and islets spread across the Atlantic, there are places that continue to surprise those who visit the archipelago, due to the beauty and natural singularity they present, such as the so-called “Princess Ring”.
One of these places is the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, on the island of São Miguel. Located about 500 meters off the south coast, this small volcanic islet has become one of the most emblematic natural settings in the Azores and attracts visitors for its unique shape.
Its circular configuration and internal lagoon gave it a curious nickname among visitors and locals: “Princess Ring”. Seen from above, the islet resembles a natural ring perched on the ocean, an image that helps explain the popularity of this place, according to the Visit Portugal blog.
The Vila Franca do Campo Islet was formed around four thousand years ago, after an underwater eruption that created a volcanic cone of a hydromagmatic nature. Over the centuries, erosion caused by the sea and tectonic movements slowly shaped the structure of the islet, giving it the current shape that impresses those who observe it today.
The most striking feature is the flooded central crater, known locally as the lagoon. It communicates with the sea through a narrow opening, creating a kind of natural pool protected from the strongest Atlantic currents.
Protected natural reserve
The environmental importance of this space led to its classification as a Natural Reserve in 1983 by the Regional Government of the Azores. The decision aimed to preserve the ecosystems present on the islet and in the waters surrounding it, ensuring that its biodiversity remains protected.
According to the same source, access to the site is controlled and the number of daily visitors is limited, a measure considered essential to avoid degradation of the natural space.
Typical flora of the Azores
Despite its small size, the islet is home to several species of plants characteristic of the Azores archipelago. Among the best known are the heather (Erica azorica) and the vidalia (Azorina vidalii), two endemic species that have adapted to the particular conditions of the island environment. These plants play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the site and help preserve the natural identity of the Azorean landscape.
A haven for birds and marine life
The Vila Franca do Campo Islet is also an important nesting point for several seabirds. Among the species that find shelter there are the shearwater (Calonectris borealis) and the common tern (Sterna hirundo), two birds that are very representative of the fauna of the Azores.
Diverse marine species also live in the waters surrounding the islet, including colorful fish, starfish and sea urchins, which makes the place popular for activities such as snorkeling and diving.
How to visit the “Princess Ring”
Access to the islet is by boat from the town of Vila Franca do Campo, especially during the summer season. There are regular connections, but the number of visitors allowed is limited to ensure the protection of the natural space and avoid negative impacts on the ecosystem.
The inner lagoon, protected from ocean currents, offers suitable conditions for swimming or observing marine life in calm, transparent waters, according to the same source.
A scenario chosen by international athletes
The natural beauty of the islet has also attracted the attention of international sporting events. The place has hosted, on several occasions, the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition, which brings together athletes from different countries to perform great height jumps into the sea. The images from this event, transmitted to various parts of the world, helped to make the Vila Franca do Campo Islet even better known.
Preserving one of the natural treasures of the Azores
The preservation of this natural space is considered fundamental to maintaining its ecosystems. Activities such as fishing, removal of plants or the introduction of invasive species are prohibited, ensuring the protection of the natural habitats existing on the islet.
Visitors are encouraged to respect established standards, contributing to the conservation of one of the most special natural settings on the island of São Miguel.
Before becoming a well-known tourist destination, the islet was used for agricultural activities, according to the source cited above. Remains of old vineyard corrals are still visible today, which testify to the use of this space for wine production in times past.
Despite currently having no permanent inhabitants, the islet remains an important natural and cultural symbol for the local community.
One of the most unique settings in São Miguel and Portugal
Visiting the “Princess Ring” allows you to discover a landscape where nature remains practically intact.
For those exploring the island of São Miguel, this small piece of land in the Atlantic can offer, according to , an experience marked by tranquility and direct contact with Azorean nature.
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