What to do in Pico

Pico Island is the second biggest island of the Archipelagos of the Azores. The island is only 46 km long and 16 km wide. It is approximately tens kilometres away from the Faial Island and the São Jorge Island.

The island owes its name to the volcano which dominates the area from the top of its 2351 metres. It also the volcano that gives it this specific cone shape. The volcano is the highest summit within the archipelago and Portugal. The other features of the Pico Island are the vineyards that you can find on the mountainside. These are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage. Whalers, fishermen and farmers have shaped the island across the centuries. The land and the sea are tied closely, the vineyards are two steps away from the sea.

Pico island is also referred to as the Black Island (Ilha Preta), it is a real heaven on earth for nature lovers. While exploring the island you will come to discover beautiful blooming landscapes full of vineyards and try delicious shellfish.

Whale watching as well as watching the dolphins is the best attraction within Pico. The island has the best weather condition all year round which makes it a perfect spot to practice any kind of sports. You will be able to go sailing, kayaking, scuba diving and sport fishing while enjoying the sun. The best period is from May to September. April/May and September/Ocotber are the best period to go on hiking excursions in the Pico Mountain (Montanha do Pico). You might be tempted to go for a swim in one of the numerous natural pools carved by centuries of cooling lava or the crystal waters that surround the island.

You can also go on an underground adventure in one of Pico’s dozens of volcanic caves and lava caves such Gruta das Torres. This cave is one of the longest caves in the world, it is 5 kilometres long. It is listed as natural regional monument. You will pose as an explorer equipped with your light and helmet.

There are a lot of tracks and trails in the island perfect for hiking or mountain biking (for those who like the adrenaline rush). You can also opt for a paragliding flight over Pico, it is a sight for sore eyes! If you enjoy something quieter you can go cycling, riding a horse or traveling on a donkey.

What make the villages of Pico so special are the houses built with black lava blocks. The lava fields (lajidos) aim for a special colour effect to the Black Island.
Because of its rich cultural heritage which is mainly linked to wine culture and whales, there are so many things to do in Pico Island such as visiting the Wine Museum that is located in a former convent in Madalena, the Whalers Museum in Lajes do Pico in an old boathouse. Finally the Whaling Industry Museum in Sao Roque do Pico