Pico island: highlights, wine tasting and local gastronomy

Planning a trip to the Azores and curious about what a full-day adventure on Pico Island might look like? This guided tour offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s stunning landscapes, delicious local foods, and charming culture. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it seems like a thoughtful experience for anyone wanting to see the best of Pico without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour is its emphasis on natural beauty and authentic local flavors. From panoramic views to wine tastings, it’s clear this experience aims to connect visitors deeply with the island’s essence. Two things we really like? First, the chance to explore UNESCO-listed vineyards and taste Pico wines, which are truly a signature of the region. Second, the underground lava tunnel visit—an opportunity to see a mysterious volcanic world inside the earth.

Of course, no experience is perfect. A potential consideration is the itinerary’s full day format, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially those with limited mobility or small children. Also, the tour’s focus on outdoor exploration means you’ll want to be prepared with good shoes and sun protection. This tour is best suited for adventurous souls who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and engaging activities.

If you’re someone interested in nature, wine, and local gastronomy, and you don’t mind a full day of exploring, this could be a fantastic way to see Pico. Now, let’s get into the details, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

Key Points

• Includes a picnic lunch with local products, perfect for tasting Azorean flavors in a natural setting
• Offers panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, lagoons, and Pico mountain
• Explores UNESCO World Heritage vineyards with tastings of three different local wines
• Visits a mysterious lava tunnel, giving insight into Pico’s volcanic past
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personal experience
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and culture

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Overview: Authenticity in Every Step

This tour is a comprehensive way to see Pico in a single day, blending natural landmarks with cultural highlights. Starting bright and early at 9 a.m., the journey begins in Lajes, a town with a strong whaling history. Here, you get a quick intro to the Azorean whaling traditions, which have now transformed into a prime whale-watching haven. If you’re into marine life, this ties nicely into Pico’s reputation for whale and dolphin sightings, although the actual tour focuses on land-based experiences.

From there, the adventure ramps up with a scenic drive to the Central Plateau. Expect to be wowed by sweeping views of Pico mountain—Portugal’s tallest volcano—and volcanic lagoons, which look like scenes from a different world. The landscape here is wild and rugged, and it’s a real treat for photographers and nature lovers alike. You’ll also see endemic flora and fauna, which adds to the sense of discovering a truly special part of the world.

One of the highlights is the underground lava tunnel visit. Walking through these caves, you’ll notice formations like huge stalactites, underground rivers, and walls that seem to glow in the dim light. It’s a chance to experience the volcanic forces that shaped the island firsthand—an experience that often gets rave reviews for its “mysterious” and “otherworldly” feel.

Culinary and Cultural Highlights

No trip to Pico would be complete without sampling its local gastronomy, and this tour delivers exactly that. The lunch is served outdoors in a natural park and features traditional, locally-sourced dishes. The fact that the meal is cooked by a local couple adds charm—and the option for vegetarian or vegan alternatives makes it accessible. Guests usually describe the food as deliciously simple and hearty, a true reflection of Azorean home cooking.

After lunch, there’s a short walk through Criacao Velha, a village with a traditional charm that transports you back in time. Here, you can see how life used to revolve around wine-making, a craft that remains vital to Pico’s culture today. You’ll then step into the Azores Wine Company’s vineyards and winery, where a guided tour introduces you to the terroir—think volcanic soil and sea influence—that gives Pico wines their unique character. The tasting of three wines is often praised for its quality, with many noting the “great variety” and “excellent flavors.”

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the designated meeting point in Lajes and begins with a visit to the Lajes do Pico area, a spot that offers a glimpse into local history and culture. This initial stop, lasting about 30 minutes, helps set the tone for the day.

Next, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned van for a scenic drive of about 30 minutes to a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of the island’s volcanic landscape. Drivers and guides often highlight the dramatic rock formations and the imposing Pico mountain in the background—a sight that’s hard to beat.

From there, the group visits the Captain’s Lagoon for another 30-minute stop. This lagoon is a tranquil spot, perfect for photos and some quiet reflection amid nature. Many reviews mention how peaceful and still the waters are, making it a favorite among visitors.

The “secret stop” (lasting about an hour) is where the itinerary gets interesting—though specific details are rare, travelers tend to describe it as a “hidden gem,” possibly a lesser-known viewpoint or natural feature. Expect a peaceful, less crowded part of the island.

Lunch follows, with about an hour and a half allocated to enjoy regional dishes surrounded by nature. The outdoor setting enhances the experience, making it feel intimate and authentic. Many travelers mention the delicious local snacks and regional food, often highlighting how satisfying the meal is after a morning of exploring.

Post-lunch, a visit to Lajido and then Criacao Velha takes about 30 minutes each. These charming villages give you a sense of traditional life and are great spots for photos and wandering through narrow streets.

Finally, the tour concludes with a 45-minute wine tasting in Madalena, where you’ll sample three different Pico wines. Reviews frequently mention how knowledgeable the guides are about the wine-making process and how the tasting experience enriches your understanding of the island’s culture.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

All transportation is via air-conditioned van, making the day comfortable. The small group limit (up to 8 people) is a real plus, as it means more personalized attention and less time waiting around. The tour runs from 9 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m., so be prepared for a full day out that covers a fair bit of ground.

To enjoy the experience fully, bring good walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen—the outdoor elements can be intense, especially during the summer. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind a bit of walking, but it’s not overly strenuous.

Pricing-wise, considering the inclusion of a picnic lunch, wine tastings, multiple land visits, and a guided underground cave tour, the cost seems reasonable. It’s a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value for those interested in nature, culture, and food.

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Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Pico Island experience is best for travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and culinary delights. It’s ideal if you enjoy being active outdoors, exploring new landscapes, and learning about local traditions—especially wine-making. The small group setting makes it perfect for those who prefer a more intimate, personal tour rather than large, bus-based excursions.

If you’re particularly interested in wine and gastronomy, you’ll find the tastings and local lunch to be highlights. The underground lava tunnel adds an adventurous touch that’s well-loved by many. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less full-day experience, you might find the itinerary a bit packed. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the amount of walking and uneven terrain.

This tour offers a genuine peek into Pico’s natural landscape and cultural fabric, wrapped up in a manageable, enjoyable day. It’s a solid choice for curious, active travelers who want to go beyond just sightseeing and truly connect with the island’s soul.

FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and exploring caves. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen, especially if visiting during summer. Water bottles are also a good idea to stay hydrated.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour runs from around 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., covering various landmarks, cultural sites, and tastings.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
While the description doesn’t specify, given the outdoor nature and walking involved, it’s probably best suited for older children and active travelers. Check with the provider if you’re traveling with young kids.

What makes Pico wines special?
Pico wines are influenced by the volcanic soil and the sea, which gives them distinctive flavors. The guided tasting in Madalena includes three different wines, showcasing their variety.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available during lunch?
Yes, the local couple preparing lunch can accommodate vegetarian and vegan options upon request.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Taking all this into account, this Pico Island tour promises a blend of natural wonder, cultural richness, and culinary enjoyment. For those who love to explore actively and taste authentic local flavors, it’s a route that’s hard to beat. Just pack your enthusiasm—and your good shoes—and you’re in for a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: