Pico Island, part of the central group within the Azores archipelago, ranks as the youngest and second largest island in the region. Renowned for its recent volcanic activity and vibrant Azorean culture, Pico is an essential destination for any traveler to the Azores.

Here are five must-do activities while experiencing Pico, aside from indulging in the island’s delectable cuisine. For practical travel information about Pico, refer to my guide to visiting Pico, which covers aspects from transportation to dining and accommodation options.

Climb Portugal’s Highest Mountain – Mount Pico

A significant draw for visitors to Pico is the opportunity to ascend Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal and the third tallest volcano in the Atlantic. Conquering this mountain is a memorable experience.

However, it’s important to note that this climb requires a level of fitness and experience. Despite having extensive hiking experience, I found the descent through loose volcanic rock, high winds, and cloud cover to be quite challenging, leading to a few stumbles. It’s advisable to choose a clear day for optimal views from the summit.

The trek begins at Casa da Montanha (Mountain House), with well-marked trails guiding you to the peak. For detailed insights, consult my complete guide to hiking Mount Pico to assist in planning your excursion.

Visit the Wineries & Enjoy a Tasting

The vineyards of Pico offer a distinctive experience, with their landscape recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Remarkably, grapes flourish here despite seemingly inhospitable conditions.

Due to the island’s youth, the soil is less fertile compared to other regions, consisting mainly of volcanic rocks.Visitors can observe the remnants of lava fields along the coast adjacent to the vineyards. The inhabitants of Pico have ingeniously constructed elaborate rock walls, allowing one or two vines to thrive within the heat they capture.

The outcome is an array of incredibly delicious wines. Additionally, a hiking trail, known as the Vinhas da Criação Velha , meanders through the vineyards on the outskirts of Madalena, providing a closer view of this agricultural marvel. A small red windmill serves as a wine museum amidst the vineyards, offering visitors the chance to engage with staff and capture stunning photographs from its heights.

In the summer months, or during the winter for tastings (as the production facility is less bustling during wetter seasons), witnessing the wine-making process followed by a tasting is a delightful experience—but reservations are a must.

Drive the Entire Island

The compact size of Pico allows for a complete drive around its perimeter, taking approximately three hours to complete. This journey offers an excellent opportunity to explore quaint towns, savor lunch, and appreciate scenic ocean views.

If you plan to rent a vehicle while on Pico, and are not coordinating through a tour operator like Azores Getaways, consider visiting Azores Rental Cars for a comprehensive selection of rental options available on the island.

There are numerous points of interest along the route, including the distinctive ‘dog’s face’ rock formation at Porto Cachorro and several hiking trails situated in the island’s interior.

For those wishing to enjoy a relaxed day away from vigorous hiking, cruising along the picturesque roads that showcase the island’s beauty is an ideal alternative.

Explore the Lava Formations at Porto Cachorro

Porto Cachorro, a traditional village characterized by narrow cobblestone streets and stone homes, lies just behind the airport in São Roque. The meeting point of land and sea features stunning lava cliffs, specifically the Arcos do Cachorro, representing one of Pico’s must-see sites. This location is accessible year-round, though the optimal visiting time occurs during drier months to mitigate slick surfaces.

The area features walking paths that meander through the lava formations, providing opportunities to observe the ocean’s power as it crashes against the rocks, as well as the renowned ‘dog’s face’ formation. Ample parking is available, along with some of the cleanest public restrooms I have encountered.

Visit Gruta das Torres (Lava Cave)

Among the lava tubes lies the largest in Portugal, making it one of the top attractions on Pico. Unfortunately, I was unable to tour this site as it was fully booked during my visit.

Nonetheless, this destination is highly recommended. Guided tours of the lava tube include a walk approximately 400 meters into the cavern, making it an ideal activity on a rainy day—something likely to occur due to Mount Pico’s unique weather patterns.

Reservations are essential, and I strongly advise booking well in advance of your travel dates, as daily slots fill quickly. For further information, visit the Visit Azores website.

Concluding Thoughts

Pico presents a wealth of unique experiences, ideally explored over a span of three to four days.

This island makes for an excellent destination while island hopping, showcasing its distinctive characteristics, making it a perfect complement to a visit to São Jorge.