Lying on the most westerly side of the group of islands Ilha das Flores is 17 kilometers long and 12.5 wide, with a population of 4.500 inhabitants. This charming but rugged island derives its name from the quantity of flowers that grow in abundance due to its high annual rainfall. It was only in the 16th Century that farmers from Europe accepted its climate and started cultivating the thick and luxuriant land. In he capital, Santa Cruz das Flores, there is a small museum devoted to the fishing industry and farming. Access to this island can only be made by flight but it does have a summer boat connection with the nearby Ilha do Corvo.