The tallest mountain in Portugal rises from this volcanic Atlantic island, where vineyards grow in black basalt soil and 18th-century whaling ports dot the coast.
Pico Island rises from the Atlantic Ocean as part of Portugal's Azores archipelago, with Mount Pico reaching 2,351 meters into the sky. Walk through black volcanic vineyards divided by centuries-old stone walls, watch sperm whales breach the surface of the Atlantic, or explore the 5-kilometer Gruta das Torres lava tube system. You can swim in volcanic rock pools at São Roque do Pico or climb to Mount Pico's summit for views across to neighboring islands.
Getting to Pico Island
SATA Azores Airlines and TAP Air Portugal operate flights to Pico Airport from mainland Portugal. Regular ferries connect Pico to the nearby islands of Faial (30 minutes) and São Jorge (1 hour). The ferry terminal in Madalena serves as the main entry point for sea arrivals.
Mount Pico Hiking
The climb to Mount Pico's summit takes 6-8 hours round trip. Start at the mountain house at 1,231 meters elevation, where you must register before beginning. You'll walk through volcanic rocks on the first section, then tackle a steep climb over loose scree to reach the peak. On clear days, you can see the islands of Faial and São Jorge from the summit.
Volcanic Vineyards
Stone walls built from black volcanic rock divide Pico's vineyards into thousands of small plots called currais. These walls shield the Verdelho grape vines from ocean winds and salt spray. Visit the Criação Velha wine region to see the most intact examples of these stone-walled plots. Stop by Cooperativa Vitivinícola to taste wines grown in the mineral-rich volcanic soil.
Whale Watching and Marine Life
Sperm whales swim in the waters around Pico year-round, while blue whales pass through during spring migration. Book boat tours from the ports of Lajes or Madalena between April and October for the best chances of spotting these marine mammals.
Natural Swimming Areas
At Arcos do Cachorro, waves rush through volcanic rock tunnels, creating natural water shows. The pools at São Roque do Pico sit behind volcanic rock barriers, creating calm swimming spots. You'll find changing rooms and carved stone steps leading into the water at most swimming areas.
Underground Lava Tubes
Walk through Gruta das Torres, Portugal's longest lava tube at 5 kilometers. Guided tours take you past formations where cooling lava created stone icicles and floor-to-ceiling columns. The visitor center's volcanic stone construction matches the surrounding landscape.
Local Food and Drink
Try octopus stewed in local wine, fish soup made with the day's catch, or limpets grilled with garlic at restaurants across the island. The mineral-rich volcanic soil gives Pico's white wines, especially those made from Verdelho grapes, their distinct mineral character.
Weather and When to Visit
Summer (June to September) brings temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F) with occasional rain showers. Winter sees more rainfall and temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Mount Pico's peak can get snow during winter. For mountain climbing, head out early in summer mornings when skies are typically clearest.
