Pico Island, a hidden gem in the Azores archipelago, beckons travelers to discover its enchanting beauty and rich cultural tapestry. This one-day tour promises an immersive experience, blending scenic walks through volcanic landscapes, a traditional Azorean lunch, and a delightful wine tasting at a local winery. With a small group size and an expert guide, visitors can explore breathtaking viewpoints, learn about the island’s captivating history, and savor the unique flavors that have made Pico’s wines renowned. It’s an opportunity to unveil the island’s secrets and embark on a journey that lingers long after the day’s end.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive one-day tour of Pico Island showcasing its diverse culture, landscapes, and UNESCO-recognized vineyards.
- Itinerary includes a photo stop at Cachorro viewpoint, a guided walk through lava fields, a traditional Azorean lunch, and a wine tasting.
- Small group size of 6 participants ensures a personalized experience with an English and German-speaking guide.
- Tour covers historical sites, volcanic origins, and local wine cultivation, providing an immersive cultural exploration.
- Advance booking recommended due to high demand, with the option to reserve and pay later with free cancellation.
Overview of the Tour
This all-encompassing tour allows visitors to discover the captivating island of Pico in just one day, immersing them in its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and renowned wine heritage.
Priced at $147.46 per person, this small-group tour is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, planning your Pico adventure has never been easier.
Spanning 8 hours, the tour departs from the João Quaresma Maritime Ferry Terminal in Madalena, ensuring a seamless start to your unforgettable journey through this UNESCO-recognized island.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary highlights an immersive exploration of Pico Island, showcasing its diverse natural and cultural wonders.
It begins with a photo stop at the stunning Cachorro viewpoint, followed by a 1-hour walk through the Lajido lava fields, offering a unique glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins. Guests then enjoy a 1-hour break for a traditional Azorian lunch at a local restaurant, refueling before continuing their journey.
Key stops include:
Captains Lagoon, a photo-worthy natural wonder.
Lajes Do Pico, where a 1-hour walk provides insights into the island’s history and way of life.
Moinho Do Frade, a picturesque windmill that serves as a testament to the region’s heritage.
The tour culminates with a 1-hour wine tasting at a local winery, allowing visitors to savor the flavors that have made Pico a renowned wine destination.
Experience and Activities
The tour’s small group size, limited to 6 participants, allows for a more intimate and personalized experience.
A live guide fluent in English and German accompanies the group, sharing insights and facilitating immersive interactions throughout the day.
Trekkers will stroll through UNESCO-recognized vineyards, learning about local wine cultivation and the volcanic landscape that shapes the island.
Visitors will also explore the highland of Pico and the Lagoa de Capitao, taking in panoramic views of the iconic Mount Pico.
The tour provides a well-rounded culture, covering local life, history, and the significance of the island’s whaling heritage.
Complementing the activities are tastings of Pico’s renowned wines and a traditional Azorian lunch.
Inclusions
Complementing the immersive cultural experiences, the tour includes a comprehensive set of inclusions to enhance the day’s activities.
Travelers can expect convenient round-trip transportation from the starting point in Madalena.
Plus, the tour provides:
Three glasses of Pico wine during a guided tasting with a professional English-speaking hostess, offering a delightful opportunity to savor the local vintages.
A typical Azorean lunch at a local restaurant, allowing participants to indulge in the authentic flavors of the region.
A small bottle of water per person, ensuring hydration throughout the day’s adventures.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour aims to create a well-rounded and enriching experience for guests exploring the island’s wonders.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyRestrictions
Despite the comprehensive inclusions, this tour has some restrictions to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
Notably, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, children under 18, or people over 95 years old.
The meeting point is in front of the Ferry Terminal in Madalena, where guests can easily identify the guide carrying an Azorean flag. This measure helps to facilitate the smooth start of the tour and avoid any confusion.
The tour’s target audience is generally able-bodied adults, as the itinerary involves activities like walking and exploring the island’s diverse landscapes.
Starting Point and Meeting
Guests conveniently start their Pico Island adventure at the João Quaresma Maritime Ferry Terminal in Madalena, where they’ll meet the guide carrying the distinctive Azorean flag to easily identify the group’s meeting point. This central location provides a straightforward beginning to the day’s explorations:
The guide will greet the small group, limited to just 6 participants, and ensure everyone is accounted for before embarking on the discovery tour.
From the ferry terminal, the group will set off to explore the stunning volcanic landscapes, historic sites, and renowned Pico wine region that make this island so captivating.
With the guide’s expertise and fluency in English and German, guests can look forward to an immersive and informative journey through the highlights of Pico.
Visiting Cachorro
The tour makes its first stop at the dramatic coastal cliffs of Cachorro, where visitors capture breathtaking photos of the rugged volcanic scenery and azure waters crashing against the shore.
The jagged rock formations and towering sea cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, while the crashing waves below create a mesmerizing display of nature’s power.
Guests have an opportunity to explore the area, taking in the stunning vistas and learning about the unique geological features that shape this picturesque coastline.
The Cachorro photo stop offers a glimpse into Pico’s raw, untamed beauty and sets the stage for the adventurous journey ahead.
Wine Tasting at Winery
After exploring the dramatic coastal cliffs of Cachorro, the tour now moves inland to immerse visitors in the island’s renowned viticulture heritage with a visit to a local winery.
The group will be welcomed by a professional English-speaking hostess who’ll guide them through a tasting of three distinct Pico wines.
Guests will learn about the unique terroir and microclimate that produces these exceptional vintages, shaped by Pico’s volcanic landscape and maritime climate.
The winery visit offers a chance to appreciate the centuries-old traditions of wine cultivation on the island, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its remarkable vineyards.
As they sip the robust, full-bodied wines, you will gain a deeper understanding of how Pico’s remarkable natural heritage is reflected in each glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Tour for a Different Day?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a different day. The tour provider offers flexible scheduling, allowing customers to select a date that works best for their travel plans. Availability and pricing may vary by date.
How Long Does the Entire Tour Last?
The full Pico Island tour lasts around 8 hours, exploring various highlights and including a 1-hour lunch break and 1-hour wine tasting. Participants can expect to return to the starting point by the end of the day.
What Happens if I Need to Cancel the Tour?
If you need to cancel the tour, you can get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The tour operator offers free cancellation, letting you easily get your money back if your plans change.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages?
While the tour provides meals and drinks, guests are generally welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages if desired. However, outside alcohol is typically not allowed during the wine tasting portion of the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
The tour has age restrictions – it’s not suitable for children under 18 or people over 95 years old. Participants must be able to walk and climb without assistance. The tour is designed for adults in good physical condition.
The Sum Up
Explore the volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Pico Island in just one day.
This tour offers a scenic walk, traditional Azorean lunch, and delightful wine tasting, providing an immersive experience with a small group and knowledgeable guide.
Discover the enchanting beauty and unique flavors that make Pico a must-visit destination in the Azores.
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