STOP 5: ENSEADA DE FEDORENTOS (self-guided route The Names of the Island)

If you prefer, you can download the complete self-guided route leaflet in PDF format HERE.

Marine life gives both scent and name to this cove.

You are now at the Fedorentos viewpoint. The name, derived from fedor (meaning “stench”), may not sound like an inviting place—but why do you think it’s called that?

The waters surrounding the islands of the National Park are among the richest in the world. Part of the abundant marine life that grows during the favorable conditions of spring and summer is torn away by autumn and winter storms. The cove’s exposed position facing the open sea, along with prevailing southern winds and its particular shape, make it a natural trap for huge quantities of seaweed and other organic matter brought in by waves and currents. The unpleasant smell these accumulations release is what gave this place its name.

For a similar reason—referring this time to the flies attracted by decomposing organic matter—the small beach you can see on the nearby island of Onza is called Praia das Moscas (“Fly Beach”).

Discover more about the marine richness of the waters surrounding the islands by clicking here.