 Everything
about the island is on a large scale. Its mountain which rises up
from the sea to touch the sky. Its sperm whales which are on view
for the tourists. Men with Herculean strength transform the dark
lava into houses, vineyards, and tilled fields. Visiting Pico is
like entering a world in miniature built up over centuries by whalers,
farmers and fishermen. For a holiday of many contrasts, from the
slopes of old volcanoes, the taste of fresh sweet figs and grapes
to the enchanting panoramic views and snug villages overlooking
the sea, visit Pico Island. |
White
and black strewn amongst tree groves
Spread out along the coast, nestled between the green fresco of
vegetation and vineyards, the villages of Pico have a distinctive
character all of its very own characterised by its houses which
are built from blocks of black lava. An abundance of flowers in
vases and surrounding gardens. Its small-scale ports where colourful
fishing boats bob in the wind. Its humble little church perched
on a hill overlooking the sea.
Lajes, Sao Roque and Madalena are three century-old towns steeped
in their own fair share of art and history. Calheta de Nesquim,
Sao Joao, Sao Mateus, Ribeirinha and many other parishes all boast
churches that are worth a visit with picturesque streets leading
out to the sea and houses set amongst the vineyard plantations. |
 Whalers
and sperm whales
Until the end of the 19th century, American whalers would come to
Pico to catch sperm whales and to recruit harpooners, though it
would not be long before the islanders took to whaling themselves
using their speedy rowing boats. Ending in a royal battle between
man and sea creature which would so often end in tragedy. These
days Pico is regaining its whaling tradition though in a more peaceful
way-in the form of two museums which tell the story of whaling and
display the delicate artwork performed by mariners using the teeth
and bones of sperm whales. Boat trips also take the visitor out
to sea to view the sperm whales and the graceful dolphins. |
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 A
mountainous island to be explored
Pico is a paradise for nature-lovers. Wind your way along its
marvelous coastline, past the vineyards, the gentle slopes of
the mountains, the extensive and verdant plateaus with their small
lakes and pools of lava. Climb up to the peak of the Pico volcano
(2,351m). Enjoy a spot of birdwatching and the primitive flora.
Look out towards the neighbouring islands of Faial, Sao Jorge
and Graciosa from any one of the excellent vantage points available.
Pico wine
appreciated by the czars
Grown from the lava soil and sheltered the wind by walls of black
stone, the grape-vines produce a nectar that graced the tables
of the Russian court and even today will satisfy the palate of
the most demanding connoisseurs of excellent wine.
There is no better souvenir to remind you of your dreamy holidays
on Pico than a bottle or two of its exceptional wine. And don't
forget to take home a miniature whale boat, a work of art crafted
from real whale bones or some intricate lace, the handiwork of
the local Pico women.
Hotel
rates in the Island of Pico
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