Pico is an island of extremes: climb Portugal’s highest mountain in the morning, swim in lava-rock pools at lunch, taste volcanic wine in the afternoon, and watch sperm whales breach against the sunset. The island rewards effort, whether that means a 7-hour mountain ascent or navigating the maze of basalt-walled vineyards. Here are the best things to do in Pico.
Things to Do in Pico: The Mountain
Climb Ponta do Pico
At 2,351 metres, Ponta do Pico is Portugal’s highest peak and the third-highest mountain in the Atlantic. The standard route starts at Casa da Montanha (1,200m), a 20-minute drive from Madalena up a winding mountain road. The trail is marked by 47 numbered wooden posts leading 3.8 km to the summit crater (Pico Alto). Plan 3-4 hours up and 2-3 hours down, plus time at the summit. You must register at Casa da Montanha (open 7am to 7pm in summer, reduced hours in shoulder season). GPS trackers are available for rental. A guide costs €60-80 and includes equipment; book at least a week ahead in peak season. What to bring: sturdy hiking boots (not trainers), warm layers (summit is 8-12°C colder than sea level), full waterproofs, 2+ litres of water, food, head torch for dawn starts, and gloves. The trail is steep, loose volcanic scree (bagacina) on the upper section , the last 200m to the summit crater is a hands-and-feet scramble. The descent is hard on knees. The summit crater (Pico Alto) contains a fumarole field; the actual highest point is a small lava dome on the crater rim.
Things to Do in Pico: Volcanic and Geological Wonders
Gruta das Torres
The longest lava tube in Portugal at 5.2 km, formed by a basaltic eruption about 1,500 years ago. Guided tours take you through 450 metres of the tube, walking over the original lava floor past stalactites of solidified lava, side galleries, and gas bubbles frozen in basalt. The tour lasts 60 minutes. Entry €8, open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm (closed Mondays). Book ahead by phone or at the visitor centre near Madalena; same-day spots are limited. Helmets and headlamps provided. The tube is cool (15°C / 59°F year-round) and the floor is uneven , wear closed shoes. No photography with flash permitted in parts of the tube to protect the formations.
Furna de Frei Matias
A smaller, wilder lava tube on the north coast near São Roque, with no lighting or walkways. Accessed by a short trail from the road. You will need a torch and sturdy shoes. It is free and unstaffed. The tube is about 100m long and opens into a skylight where ferns grow in the collapsed roof section. Not for claustrophobes but rewarding for geology enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Pico: Coast and Swimming
Natural Swimming Pools of São Roque
The São Roque waterfront has been transformed into a complex of lava-rock swimming pools filled by the tide, with ladders, changing rooms, showers, and a snack bar. The pools are free and open year-round; the water is clear and cool. A larger pool is suitable for lap swimming; smaller pools are better for families. The snack bar operates June to September. The view of the mountain from the water is the best on the island.
Things to Do in Pico: Whaling Heritage
Museu dos Baleeiros (Whalers’ Museum)
Housed in the former whaling boat houses of Lajes do Pico, this museum traces the history of Azorean whaling from the 19th century until the ban in 1986. Exhibits include original whaling boats (botes baleeiros), harpoons, scrimshaw, and photographs of the hunt. The museum is excellent and deeply moving. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5:30pm; entry €3.50. Lajes do Pico itself is a beautiful town of dark basalt buildings and a harbour that once launched the whaling fleet and now launches whale-watching RIBs.
Things to Do in Pico: UNESCO Vineyards
Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico
The UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscape stretches along Pico’s west and north coasts, where thousands of small, square enclosures (currais) built from black basalt stones protect individual grapevines from wind and salt spray. The vineyard zone runs from Madalena to São Roque. You can walk or drive through the vineyards, stopping at adegas for tastings. The best route is the coastal road (EN1-1A) north from Madalena. The Cooperativa VitivinÃcola da Ilha do Pico in Madalena (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) is the easiest place to taste and buy verdelho. Individual producers like Adega do Vulcão and Adega A. Arruda open by appointment.
