Pico Island: Wine Tasting, Independent Producers & Culture

Pico Island, part of the Azores archipelago, offers a distinctive wine tasting experience that immerses visitors in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers can explore the island’s volcanic landscapes while sampling limited-edition wines crafted by independent producers, renowned for their unique flavors derived from the mineral-rich soil. This cultural journey not only showcases the artisanal winemaking practices but also provides an opportunity to connect with the vibrant local community, promising an unforgettable experience for oenophiles and adventurous travelers alike.

Good To Know

• Immersive 5-hour wine tasting tour on Pico Island, featuring visits to volcanic vineyards, a natural pool, and an independent winery.
• Opportunity to sample limited-edition volcanic wines crafted by independent producers and learn about the local winemaking heritage.
• Pairing of regional delicacies, such as fresh crabs, artisanal cheeses, and traditional crackers, with the unique volcanic wines.
• Flexible booking options, including reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Tour not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, recommendations provided for comfortable attire and sun protection.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 5-hour wine tasting tour on Pico Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the region’s volcanic wines and local producers.

Priced from $152.66 per person, the tour accommodates a small group of up to 8 participants and is available in English, French, and Spanish.

Travelers can take advantage of the flexible booking options, including a reserve now, pay later option, and enjoy a full refund with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Whether seeking an immersive cultural experience or simply sampling exceptional volcanic wines, this tour provides an excellent way to explore Pico Island’s winemaking heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a scenic 20-minute drive to the starting point at the João Quaresma Maritime Ferry Terminal in Criacao Velha.

Participants then embark on a 1-hour walk through the island’s volcanic vineyards.

Next, the group visits a secret natural pool for a refreshing swim or snorkeling session.

Afterward, they head to a local bar for a tasting of regional delicacies, including crabs, cheeses, fruits, and crackers, paired with Pico’s renowned wines.

The finale is a 1.5-hour wine tasting at an independent winery, showcasing the island’s unique volcanic terroir.

The return journey offers breathtaking scenic views.

Experience Pico’s Volcanic Wines

Pico’s volcanic wines captivate visitors with their distinct character and rich history. Tasting these unique wines offers a glimpse into the island’s winemaking traditions:

• Explore limited-edition wines from independent producers, crafted with grapes grown in the island’s volcanic soil – a true reflection of Pico’s terroir.

• Discover the deep-rooted connection between the local community and their winemaking heritage, as you engage with producers and gain insights into traditional practices.

• Savor the perfect pairing of Pico’s volcanic wines with the island’s local delicacies, further enhancing the culture.

Taste the Local Delicacies

Beyond the captivating volcanic wines, Pico Island offers a remarkable culinary journey, allowing visitors to enjoy the local flavors.

During the wine tasting tour, guests are treated to a selection of regional delicacies, including fresh crabs, artisanal cheeses, sun-ripened fruits, and traditional crackers. These delectable bites perfectly complement the unique volcanic wines, creating a harmonious gastronomic experience.

A selection of regional delicacies, from fresh crabs to artisanal cheeses, perfectly complementing Pico’s unique volcanic wines for a harmonious gastronomic experience.

The tour also provides insights into the island’s culinary traditions, as participants engage with local communities and learn about the authentic preparation methods.

This holistic exploration of Pico’s food and wine truly enriches the overall cultural experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Engage With the Local Community

Although the wine tastings and natural wonders are undoubtedly captivating, the true essence of the Pico Island tour lies in its deep culture.

Participants have the opportunity to:

• Interact with local winemakers, learning about their traditional techniques and the unique challenges of cultivating grapes in the volcanic terrain.

• Visit a family-owned winery, where the owners share insights into their generational legacy and the evolution of the island’s wine industry.

• Savor local delicacies, such as freshly caught crab and artisanal cheeses, while engaging in lively conversations with the community.

This cultural exchange offers a genuine glimpse into the vibrant, resilient spirit of Pico Island.

Explore the Natural Attractions

One of the highlights of the Pico Island tour is the opportunity to explore the island’s captivating natural attractions.

The tour includes a visit to a secret natural pool, where participants can enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel. The volcanic landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage site provide a breathtaking backdrop for these natural experiences.

As the tour moves through the lush vineyards, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s unique terroir and the resilience of the local winemakers who cultivate their craft amidst the challenging volcanic terrain.

These natural wonders enhance the overall wine tasting and culture.

Important Information for Participants

The tour starts from the meeting point near the Ferry Boat terminal in Madalena Village, at the statue of Gilberto Mariano da Silva, across from the CW Azores water sports shop.

Be sure to come prepared with:

• Comfortable shoes for walking through the vineyards

• Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen

• Swimwear for a refreshing dip in the secret natural pools

Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

For a memorable experience, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the volcanic landscapes and cultural encounters.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have consistently praised the Pico Island wine tasting tour, awarding it an impressive 5/5 rating across various reviews.

One Canadian traveler, Brittney, lauded the tour’s culinary experience and the guide’s knowledgeability.

Another reviewer, Mike from the United States, highlighted the quality of the lunch and the host’s local expertise.

Benoit from Switzerland also recommended the activity, commending the guide’s impressive command of the subject matter.

Benoit from Switzerland commended the guide’s impressive command of the subject matter on the Pico Island wine tasting tour.

Across the board, visitors have been delighted by the opportunity to engage with independent producers and enjoy the island’s unique winemaking culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation to and From the Meeting Point Provided?

The tour does not include transportation to and from the meeting point. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the designated meeting location near the Ferry Boat terminal in Madalena Village.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated During the Food Tastings?

Yes, the tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions during the food tastings. Guests should inform the tour staff of any special dietary needs when booking, so they can plan accordingly.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Wine Tasting?

There are no age restrictions for the wine tasting tour. However, participants must be of legal drinking age in their country of origin to participate in the wine tastings. The tour is open to adults 18 years and older.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Tour?

In case of inclement weather, the tour provider offers a flexible rescheduling policy or full refund. They prioritize guest safety and will adapt the itinerary as needed to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Wine Tasting Experience?

Yes, participants can extend the wine tasting experience by adding an extra hour for an additional fee. This allows more time to explore the local wineries and sample a wider variety of volcanic wines.

The Sum Up

Pico Island’s wine tasting tour offers an immersive cultural experience that showcases the island’s unique volcanic terroir, artisanal winemaking, and vibrant local community. Visitors can savor limited-edition wines, indulge in local delicacies, and explore the stunning natural landscapes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and experiences that truly captures the essence of this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: