Pico Island, which is the second-largest island in the Azores archipelago, is home to Pico Mountain, the highest mountain in Portugal, reaching an elevation of more than 2,000 metres above sea level. Pico Island, with an age of just 300,000 years, stands as the most recently developed island within the Azorean archipelago. Pico Island, sometimes referred to as the “Hawaii of Portugal,” spans a length of 46 km and has abundant flora and awe-inspiring vistas of the ocean. The appellation “Ilha Preta” or “Black Island” originates from the fertile black volcanic soils that support vines approved by UNESCO.
Despite the cessation of volcanic activity on Pico Island more than three centuries ago, the island’s dormant position attracts a significant number of experts who are interested in studying its geological history.
The precise date of Pico’s discovery is still disputed; nevertheless, it is widely accepted that the island has been inhabited since the 1480s, when it fell under the jurisdiction of Faial, an Azorean island located at a distance of less than 10 km.
The story of Pico Island is closely connected to its wine and whaling customs. The island’s economy was primarily driven by whaling for centuries, particularly flourishing in the 18th century due to the arrival of American and British whalers. The practice of hunting sperm whales was prevalent until its banning in 1986. It is worth mentioning that Pico’s whaling tradition is associated with Herman Melville’s renowned novel, “Moby Dick,” which is allegedly set in the seas of the island. Presently, individuals have the opportunity to engage in the exploration of the Whale Museum and the vestiges of former whaling enterprises, as Pico takes the lead in promoting endeavours aimed at ensuring the ethical treatment and preservation of marine animals.
The development of vineyards on Pico can be traced back to the late 15th century, during which they thrived in the volcanic soil of the island. Pico wines are widely recognised worldwide for their outstanding quality, which continues the island’s reputation as a leading wine-producing area.
Pico Island offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors to explore its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some highlights:
- Pico Mountain (Montanha do Pico): Hike to the summit of Portugal’s highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. Guided tours are available for those seeking assistance and information about the mountain’s geology and flora.
- UNESCO Vineyards: Discover the unique landscape of Pico’s UNESCO-designated vineyards, known locally as “currais,” where vines are cultivated in small stone-walled enclosures. Visit local wineries to sample the island’s renowned wines, including Verdelho and Terras de Lava.
- Whale Watching: Embark on a whale-watching excursion to observe the diverse marine life thriving in the waters surrounding Pico Island. Species commonly spotted include sperm whales, dolphins, and various species of seabirds.
- Whaling Museum: Learn about Pico’s whaling heritage and the island’s role in the global whaling industry at the Whaling Museum (Museu dos Baleeiros) in Lajes do Pico. Explore exhibits showcasing whaling tools, artefacts, and the history of whaling practices on the island.
- Cave Exploration: Explore the island’s volcanic caves, including Furna de Frei Matias and Furna de Silviana, which offer impressive geological formations and underground chambers. Guided tours provide insight into the island’s volcanic history and geological features.
- Coastal Exploration: Take a scenic drive along Pico’s coastline to discover picturesque villages, natural swimming pools carved into volcanic rock formations, and secluded beaches. Stop at viewpoints such as Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto for stunning coastal vistas.
- Cultural Events and Festivals: Experience Pico’s vibrant cultural scene by attending local festivals and events, such as the Semana do Mar (Sea Week) in August, featuring traditional music, dance, food, and maritime activities.
- Historical Sites: Explore Pico’s historical sites, including churches, lighthouses, and old whaling facilities, such as the Whale Factory (Fábrica da Baleia) in São Roque do Pico.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and cycling to explore Pico’s diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush valleys and volcanic craters.
- Culinary Experiences: Sample traditional Azorean cuisine at local restaurants and taverns, featuring fresh seafood, cheese, and other regional specialties. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste Pico’s unique gastronomic offerings, including dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Getting to Pico Island typically involves travelling by air or sea, depending on your preference and location. Here are the primary methods of transportation:
By Air:
- Commercial Flights: Pico Airport (PIX), which provides regular domestic flights from significant Portuguese cities like Lisbon and Ponta Delgada (on São Miguel Island), serves Pico Island. Airlines such as Azores Airlines (SATA) and TAP Air Portugal operate flights to Pico Airport.
- Inter-Island Flights: If you’re already in the Azores, inter-island flights are available from airports on other islands, including São Miguel, Terceira, and Faial, to Pico Airport.
By Sea:
- Ferry: Ferries operated by Atlânticoline provide passenger and vehicle transportation between Pico Island and other islands in the Azores, such as São Miguel, Faial, and Terceira. The main ferry terminal on Pico Island is located in Madalena.
- Cruise Ships: Some cruise lines include Pico Island as a port of call during their Azores itineraries, offering passengers the opportunity to explore the island’s attractions and culture.
Once you arrive on Pico Island, various transportation options are available for getting around, including rental cars, taxis, and guided tours. The island’s relatively small size makes it easy to navigate, allowing visitors to explore its scenic landscapes, villages, and attractions at their own pace.
