Pico Wine Tour: Get to know Pico’s wines

The Pico Wine Tour offers a full-day immersion into the island’s celebrated wine culture, all for $216 per person. Designed to highlight Pico’s UNESCO-protected vineyards, this 8-hour experience guides you through traditional villages, old wineries, and scenic wine-growing landscapes. With small groups limited to 8 participants and guided by a certified Azores Natural Parks Guide, this tour appeals to those eager to learn about Pico’s unique wine heritage and taste its distinct flavors.

While the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Pico’s wine production and history, it also includes several tasting sessions, a hearty local lunch, and visits to multiple wineries and villages. The experience is best suited for adults, as people under 18 are not permitted, and it caters to travelers who appreciate cultural stories combined with wine tasting. The tour’s pacing allows ample time at each stop, ensuring a relaxed but thorough exploration.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $216 for an 8-hour tour with multiple wine-related stops.
• UNESCO Vineyards: Explores 987 acres of protected vineyards, offering iconic views and a glimpse into Pico’s wine heritage.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a certified Azores Natural Parks Guide who shares insights into Pico’s wine culture and history.
• Tastings and Food: Includes tastings of Pico wines, liquors, and brandies, paired with a local lunch featuring regional products.
• Visits to Traditional Villages: Walks through Criação Velha and visits old wineries and distilleries, showcasing Pico’s rich wine-making traditions.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 8 participants ensure a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure Point and Tour Logistics in Madalena

The tour departs from Tripix Azores, with the meeting point in front of Madalena Ferry Station. The activity concludes back at the same location, making it easy for travelers to plan their day around the experience. The tour runs at various start times, so checking availability is advisable.

Transport is included throughout the day, allowing seamless movement between stops. Since pick-up and drop-off services are not included, travelers should plan to arrive directly at the meeting point. The tour operates with a live guide available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, adding local language options for international visitors.

Scenic Drive to Lajido and Photo Stop

The journey begins with a scenic drive to Lajido, lasting about 110 minutes. This part of the tour offers stunning views and multiple photo opportunities of the volcanic landscape. At Lajido, guests have a chance to visit, walk, and enjoy the scenic vistas of Pico’s distinctive volcanic terrain.

This stop offers a perfect introduction to the landscape that shapes Pico’s vineyards and wine production. The landscape’s dramatic volcanic stones and lush vineyards set the tone for what’s to come in later visits.

Visiting the Museum and Interpretive Centre

Following the scenic drive, the tour includes a visit to a visitor center for about 30 minutes. Here, you can join a guided or self-guided tour that explains the history of Pico’s wine-making and the significance of its UNESCO designation.

This stop enhances understanding of how Pico’s volcanic geology influences its wine flavor profile. It’s a good chance to see local exhibits and get context for the subsequent visits to wineries and distilleries.

Traditional Lunch with Local Flavors

A key part of the tour is a 1.5-hour lunch at a local restaurant, where regional products and flavors are emphasized. This meal provides a welcome break and offers authentic Azorean cuisine, paired with regional drinks.

While the specific menu is not detailed, the inclusion of local products ensures an authentic taste of Pico’s culinary traditions, making the experience well-rounded for those interested in regional culture.

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Wine Tasting at a Historic Winery

The tour includes a 40-minute wine tasting at a local winery, where guests sample Pico wines and learn about their production process. This visit emphasizes the distinct flavor profiles that set Pico wines apart, often linked to the island’s volcanic soil.

The guide explains the history of the winery and the winemaking traditions passed down through generations. The tasting sessions are known for being generous, offering full glasses of wine.

Walk and Visit in Criação Velha

Next, travelers walk through Criacao Velha, a small village famous for its volcanic stone vineyards called currais de vinha. This area is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and ceramic-like stone walls, which protect the vines from wind.

This leg lasts about 20 minutes and allows for scenic sightseeing and photo opportunities. The village’s traditional charm and distinctive vineyard setup make it a highlight for those interested in agricultural practices and picturesque scenery.

Second Winery Visit with Extended Tasting

The tour continues with a 1-hour visit to another winery, where a second wine tasting takes place. This session deepens understanding of Pico’s diverse wine styles and showcases small producer efforts.

The guide’s explanations help contextualize the local winemaking techniques, and the tastings often include a variety of liquors, brandies, and moonshine, adding to the flavor experience.

Exploring the Village of Criação Velha

The day concludes with a walk through Criação Velha, a village that epitomizes Pico’s wine-growing tradition. Walking here gives a close-up view of the volcanic vineyard landscape and provides a final chance to appreciate the local environment.

This stop is brief but impactful, illustrating the integral connection between the land and Pico’s wine culture.

Practicalities and What’s Included

The tour includes a certified guide, entry tickets, and guided visits to museums, wineries, and cooperatives. Guests receive wine tastings, including liquors and brandies, along with a lunch featuring regional products.

Transportation is provided for the entire day, though pick-up and drop-off services are not included. The activity is insured via Allianz Personal Accident Insurance for peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Pico Wine Tour is ideal for adults who want an interactive, educational experience centered on Pico’s wine culture and landscapes. It’s especially suited for those interested in history, local traditions, and wine tasting.

Since children under 18 and people with mobility impairments or wheelchairs are not accommodated, it’s best for active, able-bodied adults ready to walk and stand during visits and tastings.

The Sum Up: A Rich Taste of Pico’s Wine Heritage

The Pico Wine Tour stands out for its comprehensive exploration of UNESCO vineyards, tastings of local wines and spirits, and visits to traditional villages. Guided by an expert, multilingual guide, participants gain insight into Pico’s volcanic influence on wine production and the island’s cultural history.

While the full-day itinerary offers a relaxed pace with meaningful stops, it’s important to note that transportation logistics and cancellation policies require some planning. The small group size enhances interaction and personalization, making this a favorite for wine enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

The tour provides good value for those eager to learn about Pico’s distinctive wine landscape and enjoy authentic regional flavors. It’s a balanced combination of scenic sightseeing, cultural storytelling, and flavorful tastings—perfect for visitors seeking a deep dive into Pico’s wine traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation throughout the day is included, but pick-up and drop-off services are not.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts 8 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Can children participate?
No, children under 18 are not permitted on this tour.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking involved.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What does the tour include?
It includes a certified guide, museum and winery entries, wine tastings, local lunch, and insurance.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, cancellations made up to 2 days in advance receive a full refund. Later cancellations incur fees, and full charges apply within 48 hours.

Is this tour good value for money?
Yes, given the multiple tastings, guided visits, and cultural insights, many find it worth the $216 price.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The highlight is exploring UNESCO protected vineyards and tasting distinct Pico wines with expert explanations.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Portuguese?
Yes, guides are available in English and Spanish, making it accessible for international visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby