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Pico island stands out as the second largest island in the Azores and is home to the tallest mountain in Portugal. Pico invites travelers to enjoy its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventures. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, wine lover, or history buff, I know you will fall in love with Pico like I have. And I am not just saying that because my family is from there! Use this list of the best things to do on Pico to enjoy your island experience to the fullest.
Climb Mount Pico
The identifying feature of Pico island is Mount Pico standing as the highest peak in Portugal. For the ultimate adventure, accept the challenge of ascending to the summit to soak in the panoramic views. The trail is well-marked and maintained but is still difficult. It is best to book a mountain climbing tour to have access to experienced guides. There are even tour options to climb the mountain at night to enjoy the spectacular star-gazing from the summit.
Explore Gruta das Torres
You can go to the underground to explore the largest lava tube in the Azores at Gruta das Torres. Organized tours take guests through the labyrinth of passages and chambers to learn about and marvel at the unique lava formations. Book your tour in advance to secure a spot and discover the history and science behind Pico’s volcanic terrain.
Experience Furna de Frei Matias
To explore a natural wonder that feels like a hidden gem, visit Furna de Frei Matias. As one of Pico’s most stunning lava caves, Furna de Frei Matias makes visitors feel like they have uncovered one of the island’s best-kept secrets. It may not be a secret, but I doubt you will encounter crowds here, making the experience even more magical. The chambers and rock formations covered in emerald moss elicit an almost eerie beauty that you have to experience yourself.
Visit the Wine Museum
Pico is known for their wine, and there’s no better place to learn about it than at Pico’s Wine Museum. Dive into learning about Pico’s wine-making traditions, history, and the island’s unique landscape through the museum’s exhibits. Housed inside the Carmelitas convent (Casa Conventual das Carmelitas), the wine museum offers a multi-sensory exploration of the island’s wine culture. In addition to its exhibits, the museum organizes guided vineyard tours and wine tastings.
Wine taste in UNESCO Vineyards
Who would have thought that vineyards could be a UNESCO World Heritage Site? That’s exactly what you’ll find among Pico’s centuries-old, stone-walled vineyards. These vineyards, known as currais, weave through the island’s landscapes. Wine is one of the many delicacies you must try during your trip to the Azores, and Pico is the perfect place to do so. Sampling the island’s renowned Verdelho wine at local wineries is the perfect way to discover the distinct flavors of grapes cultivated in the island’s fertile volcanic soil. Along the way, meet passionate winemakers and grow to appreciate the rich history of wine-making in the region.
Take a short road trip along Longitudinal Road
Longitudinal Road, or EN3, is a road cutting through the center of Pico island linking Madalena to São Roque (or Lajes). It is a long, straight road (the longest of its kind in the Azores) with a constant view of Pico Mountain along the way. The road offers the perfect route for a short road trip since several of the island’s natural attractions, like lakes and viewpoints, are accessible via the road. You may even come across the Azores’ most famous roadblock, a herd of cows. Take your time and enjoy the journey along Longitudinal Road on a mini Pico road trip.
Catch the view from Pico da Urze
If you are looking for a high vantage point to get the best view of the island, your first thought may be to hike to the top of Pico. But for a view that includes Pico mountain and doesn’t require a hike up, head over to Pico da Urze. Pico da Urze is not a super touristy spot, so you may have the whole mountain to yourself. Sounds amazing, right? Well, while you don’t have to hike up there, the trek is still no easy feat. The dirt road to get up is windy, bumpy, and along the edge of a cliff a lot of the way. This is one of the few roads where a 4-wheel drive vehicle may be necessary. As a disclaimer, I have traveled up with a non-4-wheel drive car, but it was a rough ride.
See the dog rock in Cachorro
Cachorro is a small town just a little outside Madalena. Named after a rock that somewhat resembles a dog, Cachorro is a stunning setting to experience some of Pico’s volcanic beauty. My favorite part of this area is seeing the arches and caves that have been sculpted by the elements. The turquoise water surrounded by volcanic rocks is the perfect place to go for a swim or simply enjoy the peace and quiet.
Relax at Lagoa do Capitão
Lagoa do Capitão is Pico island’s largest lake and can be accessed via the Longitudinal Road (ER 3-2). The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and provides trails to take a leisurely, relaxing stroll. When visiting, you’re also likely to come across the friendly neighborhood ducks which I love sitting and watching. On a clear day, you may even get a stunning view of Pico mountain reflected in the water. The lake’s setting amidst nature and located in the center of the island makes it a top natural attraction to visit.
Learn about Pico’s whaling history at museums
Two museums on Pico give insight into Pico’s rich whaling history. It shocks many visitors to discover that whaling remained legal in the Azores until 1984. Explore exhibits that trace the island’s whaling history from traditional whaling to modern conservation efforts at the Whaling Industry Museum in São Roque and the Whalers Museum in Lajes do Pico. There, you can discover artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that chronicle Pico’s seafaring past.
Take a whale watching excursion
While you can go whale watching from several islands in the Azores, Pico is a popular destination for the activity. Set sail from the village of Lajes do Pico, which has a rich maritime history, to embark on an unforgettable whale-watching excursion. The knowledgeable local experts will help you spot different species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat while providing insights into their behavior and conservation efforts.
Discover the historic windmills
There are several emblematic aspects of the Azores, but one of my favorites is the gorgeous windmills that dot the islands. Pico has some incredible and historic ones that are picture-perfect and set amongst the stunning backdrop of Pico’s landscape. These iconic structures offer a unique glimpse into the island’s agricultural past. One popular one to add to your list is Moinho de Frade. Constructed in the 20th century, this windmill stands as an accurate replica of the original mill that once stood in its spot.
Dive in the Azorean waters
Like many of the Azores islands, Pico island is yet another ideal place to discover the underwater wonders of the region. A diving excursion around Pico island will give you an up-close look at the region’s marine life. Dive sites such as Formigas Islets and Princesa Alice Bank allow visitors to encounter diverse ecosystems and stunning coral reefs. You may even come across ancient shipwrecks and underwater caves.
Swim in natural pools
A tourist and local favorite is swimming in natural pools around the island. You’ll find plenty of natural pools in Pico where you can take the opportunity to cool off a little, especially during the summer months. These pools originate from seawater entering an area enclosed by rocks. Some of these natural pools have been equipped with infrastructures to allow easy access and provide places to dive from.
Here are some of the island’s top natural pools to swim in:
- São Roque do Pico pools
- Poça Branca (Prainha de Baixo)
- Baía de Canas (São Roque do Pico)
- Zona Balnear de Areia Funda (Madalena)
- Laja das Rosas ( Lajido da Criação Velha)
- Piscina Natural de São Mateus (São Mateus)
- Poça das Mujas (Calheta de Nesquim)
- Natural pools of Furna de Santo António
- Cais do Mourato
- Poço da Maré do Verdugo
- Ponta do Admoiro
- Lajes do Pico Natural
Enjoy the sunset and wine at Cella Bar
Cellar Bar is a wine bar located on the edge of Madalena city. The unique venue is shaped like a wine barrel and offers stunning views. Visit at sunset to enjoy a glass of wine while watching as the sun sets on the Atlantic Ocean. The bar offers some food options and wine-tasting flights as well.
Take a day trip
As one of the three triangle islands, Pico provides easy access to take a day trip to the neighboring islands of São Jorge or Faial. Both islands offer sights unique to what you’ll find in Pico making the day trip worthwhile. To get there, simply hop on an Atlanticoline ferry.
Pico is an island full of wonders and is one of the top islands I recommend people to visit during their time in the Azores. Between the adventurous activities, history, culture, and culinary delights, Pico is sure to be a pleasant surprise to anyone who takes the time to get to know the island.