Things to do in Brava

Brava is only about ten kilometres across, but it rises steeply to 976 metres and sits in the lee of Fogo, so cloud gathers over it on most days. That moisture makes it the greenest island in the country, and it's known as the island of flowers for the hibiscus hedges and gardens in its villages. Nova Sintra, the main town, was built up in the hills to escape pirate raids, and a statue of the morna poet Eugénio Tavares stands in its square. Many Brava families have roots in the whaling ports of New England.

Walking and swimming

Hiking is the best way to see Brava. The classic route leaves Nova Sintra and passes through mountain villages and terraced gardens to the pilgrimage church at Nossa Senhora do Monte. From there it zigzags steeply down to Fajã d'Água, a palm-lined bay on the west coast, where a natural rock pool makes a welcome wild swim at the end. A shorter walk climbs to Monte Fontainhas, the highest point, where on a clear day you can see across to Fogo. Wherever you walk on the island, you'll pass coffee bushes, dragon trees and small farms clinging to the slopes.

Getting there and where to stay

Brava's airport closed in 2004 because of strong winds, so you arrive by sea. The ferry from the port near São Filipe on Fogo takes about an hour to Furna, a harbour tucked below a wall of cliffs, and some sailings continue to Praia on Santiago. Shared minibuses called aluguers meet the boat and climb to Nova Sintra, where most guesthouses are. Plan at least two nights, and build a buffer day into each side of the crossing, since the ferry only runs when the channel is calm enough.

Booking on adventuro

Guided walks on Brava can be arranged with local guides in Nova Sintra. Use the Book here tab to see live dates and prices.