Carberinho
A shore of eroded volcanic rock on Sao Nicolau, cut into arches, pinnacles and pools by the sea.
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Carberinho is a stretch of the northern coast of São Nicolau where soft volcanic rock has been cut by the sea into a set of arches, pinnacles and basins, pale against the dark rock around them, with the surf running through the openings. A track leads down to it from the road above and there is nothing built on the site. It is a photographers' place and the light in the late afternoon is the best of it.
What you actually see
- The rock arches - openings cut through the soft volcanic rock by the sea.
- The pinnacles - spires left standing along the shore.
- The tidal basins - pools worn into the rock platform.
- The pale rock - the light-coloured formations against the dark coast.
When to go
November to June is the dry season. Late afternoon light suits the rock. Swell makes the platform dangerous.
Honest expectations
The rock platform is slippery and surge can sweep it; people should stay well back in swell. The track down is rough. There are no facilities.
Nearby
Faja is nearby, and Ribeira Brava is southeast.
What to pack for Carberinho
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.