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Pico
An island dominated by Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, with UNESCO-listed vineyards and a whaling past
An island dominated by Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, with UNESCO-listed vineyards and a whaling past
The climb from Casa da Montanha takes about 5 to 8 hours return. Hikers must book a permit in advance, register and carry a GPS tracker, and numbers are capped each day.
Start early and turn back if the weather closes in.
Photo: Unukorno, CC BY-SA 3.0
Thousands of small plots (currais) enclosed by basalt walls protect the vines from wind and salt. Wine cellars around Madalena and Criação Velha offer tastings.
Photo: Unukorno, CC BY-SA 3.0
The south-coast whaling village has a whalers’ museum in the old boathouses and boat trips to see sperm whales and dolphins.
Photo: Lichinga, CC BY 4.0
A small lake in the island’s high centre, with reflections of Mount Pico on calm days.
Photo: Pablosievert, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try Pico wines made from verdelho grapes, local cheese, octopus stew and fresh fish. Polvo guisado (stewed octopus) is a local favourite.
Madalena has the most restaurants; smaller villages have simple taverns.
Pico airport has flights from Lisbon and Ponta Delgada. Ferries cross from Horta on Faial to Madalena in about 30 minutes, and seasonal ferries link with São Jorge.
A car is the best way to explore the island. The Azores are part of Portugal and the Schengen area. Non-EU visitors are registered in the EU Entry/Exit System on arrival, and visa-exempt travellers will need an ETIAS travel authorisation once it launches, expected from late 2026. Check current rules before you travel.
The Azores use the euro. Prices are generally lower than in mainland Western Europe, but rental cars are in short supply in summer, so book early.
Prices are approximate.
Mountain, vineyards and whales.
Climb Mount Pico with a permit, starting early from Casa da Montanha.
Walk among the vineyards near Criação Velha and visit a wine cellar.
Visit the whalers’ museum in Lajes and go whale watching.
Book the Mount Pico climb well ahead in summer.
The summit is often clear early and cloudy later.
Check ferry times; crossings can be cancelled in rough seas.
Wine cellars may open by appointment only.
Quick answers for planning time in Pico.
2,351m, the highest point in Portugal.
Yes, you must book in advance and register at Casa da Montanha.
About 5 to 8 hours return.
Yes, since 2004.
June to September for the best climbing weather.
Planning a wider trip? Our Azores travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.