The mountainous island of Pico, situated in the Central Group, only 8km away from Faial and 15km from Sao Jorge, is the second largest island in the archipelago (42km long and 15km wide, surface area 447km2).
At 2351m/771ft, Pico possesses the highest mountain in the Azores and Portugal. The dramatic volcanic cone dominates the horizon, and for those adventurous enough to hike up, it offers (on a clear day) the most spectacular vistas found anywhere in the archipelago. For the experienced, prepared and guided, a night out camping on top, watching the setting and rising sun is difficult to beat.
The volcanic origins of the Azores are clearly seen throughout the island of Pico, which has led to the alternative name of the Black Island. The western parts of the island still show evidence of past lava flows reaching out to the sea. Criss-crossing dry-stone walls of black volcanic rock abound, giving shelter to the many vines that are grown, though in smaller quantities than in the past.
Pico was the centre for whaling till its ban in 1987, and the island's museums should be visited to fully understand the history of the island and its people.
There are a number of interesting festivals, activities and sites to see and visit on Pico, for us however one of our main goals while in the Azores was to climb, and if weather permitted, to camp on the summit of Pico. We were not to be dissappointed. For us this would be one of the most breathtaking experiences ever, standing on top of a cloud covered horizon, watching the most amazing setting sun; a crystal clear night with an awesome view of the stars and shooting stars; and an early wake-up to see a rising sun and panoramic views below. Read more of our Pico climb adventure. For more information on Pico see the Pico facts and Stats
The volcanic origins of the Azores are clearly seen throughout the island of Pico, which has led to the alternative name of the Black Island. The western parts of the island still show evidence of past lava flows reaching out to the sea. Criss-crossing dry-stone walls of black volcanic rock abound, giving shelter to the many vines that are grown, though in smaller quantities than in the past.
Pico was the centre for whaling till its ban in 1987, and the island's museums should be visited to fully understand the history of the island and its people.
There are a number of interesting festivals, activities and sites to see and visit on Pico, for us however one of our main goals while in the Azores was to climb, and if weather permitted, to camp on the summit of Pico. We were not to be dissappointed. For us this would be one of the most breathtaking experiences ever, standing on top of a cloud covered horizon, watching the most amazing setting sun; a crystal clear night with an awesome view of the stars and shooting stars; and an early wake-up to see a rising sun and panoramic views below. Read more of our Pico climb adventure. For more information on Pico see the Pico facts and Stats
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