Criacao Velha on Pico Island is an excellent destination for wine lovers. Its UNESCO-listed vineyards and volcanic soil create a distinctive backdrop for wine tours that are both scenic and educational. We particularly like tours that combine history, local flavor, and authentic tasting experiences—like the Pico Wine Tours, which takes you inside lava tubes and vineyard landscapes that are unlike anywhere else. The region’s long-standing 500-year wine-making tradition and dramatic volcanic scenery make it a must-visit for anyone interested in unique wine culture.
In this guide, you’ll find three top-rated wine experiences. Whether you’re after an in-depth exploration with a private guide, a quick tasting, or a full-day culinary journey, there’s an option here that matches your style. Check out the details and decide which tour suits your preferences best.
1. Pico Wine Tours
At number 1, the Pico Wine Tours offers an immersive 8-hour experience for about $250 per person. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to really understand Pico’s centuries-old wine culture. The guide takes you to incredible spots like vineyards in protected landscapes, lava tubes, and even a whale museum, blending wine tasting with other local highlights. Tour guides like Jose have earned perfect reviews for their tailored approach and deep knowledge—one reviewer even mentioned that Jose “focused on my interests and made it a memorable day.”
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of authentic vineyard visits and unique locations such as a lava tube—a rare chance to explore beneath the earth’s surface while tasting wines made in volcanic soil. Over the day, you’ll learn about the history of Pico’s wine industry, from decline to renaissance, and enjoy several tastings in scenic spots like the Rilheiras and Rola pipas.
This options appeals most to travelers who want a full day of education, scenery, and tasting, ideally with a guide who personalizes the experience. The price reflects its comprehensive nature, but it offers incredible value for those eager to dive deep into Pico’s wine world.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want an all-encompassing, guided experience that combines cultural sites with top-notch wine tasting.
2. Pico Island: Wine and Vineyards Tour with Tasting
Coming in at number 2, this 3-hour guided tour is a budget-friendly way to sample Pico’s legendary vineyards for around $59 per person. Starting from Madalena, the tour takes you on a quick but insightful journey into the UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscape of Criacao Velha. It includes a visit to a local wine cooperative, where you can learn about the winemaking process and tastes of local wines—a highlight for those who appreciate understanding the craft behind each glass.
The itinerary involves a visit to the center of the vineyard landscape, with a guided walk through the typical adégas (wine cellars). The highlight is the opportunity to taste several local wines, with the guide explaining what makes Pico wine unique—its volcanic soil and traditional production methods. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it perfect for travelers with limited time.
Guests have praised this experience for its friendly guides and the chance to sample authentic Pico wines without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who want a short, informative experience—perfect if your schedule is tight or you want a less intense introduction to Pico’s wine culture.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective, focused tasting tour that offers a solid overview of Pico’s vineyard landscape and wine traditions.
3. Full Day Wine & Food Tour – Pico Island
Lastly, the Full Day Wine & Food Tour offers an 8-hour deep dive into Pico’s culinary and wine traditions. While the price isn’t listed here, this tour is aimed at those wanting a comprehensive experience. It includes visits to the Interpretation Center of the Vineyard Landscape, a guided walk through the protected landscape, and a visit to the Wine Museum. You’ll enjoy tasting four different Pico wines along with local liqueurs and brandies, rounding out the flavor profile of the island’s rich gastronomy.
What makes this tour special is its focus not just on wine but also on local food, culture, and traditional production methods. It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn how Pico’s volcanic terrain influences both the wine and local cuisine. Guests can expect a relaxed pace with plenty of tastings and insights into the island’s agricultural landscape.
Reviewers mention the tours’ insightful guides and the opportunity to taste a variety of local flavors. It suits those who want an all-in-one experience—exploring history, tasting multiple wines and liqueurs, and learning about Pico’s food culture in a single day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, immersive experience combining wine, food, and cultural heritage.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Criacao Velha
When deciding which tour to pick, consider your time availability, budget, and specific interests. If you’re after a full-day, personalized experience, the Pico Wine Tours (link) offers an in-depth exploration with a private guide. For a quick taste of Pico’s UNESCO-listed vineyards, the Pico Island: Wine and Vineyards Tour (link) provides a shorter, budget-friendly option. If your focus is on food and drink and you’d like to spend more time savoring local flavors, the Full Day Wine & Food Tour (link) makes for a memorable, all-encompassing adventure.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time slot. Also, consider the level of physical activity involved—some tours involve walking through vineyards or caves, so choose based on your comfort level.
Final Thoughts
Criacao Velha offers a variety of wine tours suited for different interests and schedules. For those wanting an intimate, full-day experience with personalized touches, Pico Wine Tours is a fantastic choice. If you prefer a concise overview with excellent value, the Pico Island: Wine and Vineyards Tour is perfect. And for travelers eager to combine wine tasting with food and cultural insights, the Full Day Wine & Food Tour is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, these tours provide a chance to explore Pico’s volcanic terroir and learn why its wines are celebrated worldwide. Be sure to book early, and prepare for a memorable trip through one of the most distinctive wine regions in Portugal.
