About this experience
This excursion is a journey to experience the living and powerful energy of the island. You will uncover its idyllic landscapes within pastures against the backdrop of Portugal's highest mountain; secrets of UNESCO-listed vineyards; stories of local inhabitants - responsive and hardworking people. And, of course, in the vast lava fields with monuments of black basalt.
What to Expect
Pico Island Vineyards - UNESCO Site
During the journey, you will see vineyards in Criacao Velha, learn about the challenging local vine-growing methods, and visit the picturesque village of winemakers Lajido de Santa Lucia. There you can also visit the House of Volcanoes, where modern simulators in a special capsule will take you to the center of the Earth, allowing you to feel the power of earthquakes. Additionally, in the village, upon request, I will take you to a wine museum, where you will learn about the intricacies of winemaking in the Azores and have the opportunity to taste the wine that was once served on the Russian imperial table.
Lava Traces and Majestic Mount Pico
The island is also referred to as black - due to the basalt slabs and rocks that frame it, formed by once-flowing and overflowing lava. In the town of Arch of Kashorru, you will stroll among rocks and observe how streams of water collide in arches. Then you will ascend a high mountain road, revealing the best view of the island: evergreen pastures with peacefully grazing cows against the backdrop of the huge, almost symmetrical Mount Pico with the Pico Alto volcano. You will also visit the beautiful Capitao Lake, where on a clear day the Azorean giant is reflected.
Lajes do Pico - Whalers' Town
Next on the agenda is a town recognized as the whaling capital of the Azores. You will learn about annual world-renowned thematic events and hear about a part of the traditional culture that since the 80s has become history. We will discuss the locals' attitude towards whaling, and in the museum, you can delve deeper into this subject: see boats, weapons, tools, and watch a documentary about hunting, preserving authentic scenes from the whalers' life.
Gruta das Torres Cave
In addition, I will gladly show you another interesting place - a cave that is a 5 km long lava tube, the longest in Europe. Through it, the lava erupted by the volcano broke out through layers of soil, leaving behind a tunnel. You can visit this cave by walking a 500-meter stretch to examine the traces of a natural cataclysm up close and learn more about how lava flows.
Organizational Details
- The excursion is conducted in my car, powerful enough to easily overcome the numerous local mountains. It will provide you with comfort, including rear passengers, thanks to large windows allowing a full view of the beauty of Pico. Water will be provided for each passenger in the cabin. Maximum capacity is 4 people.
- Entrance fees to museums and the cave are not included:
— Wine museum in Lajido de Santa Lucia (with tasting) 3.5 euros
— Wine museum in Madalena 2 euros
— Whalers' museum 2 euros
— House of Volcanoes 7 euros
— Cave 8 euros - Bring a jacket for wind and rain protection, as the island is full of weather surprises.
- Each excursion is tailored individually based on your preferences, as everything described cannot fit into 8 hours.
