About Pico

Pico is the second largest island in the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean. With a landscape dominated by exotic plants and its namesake volcano, Pico is one of the best islands in the Azores for hiking and mountain biking. Wine production also plays an important role in Pico’s culture, with UNESCO protected vineyards in the towns of Lajido, Cabrito and Madelena, which are all well worth seeing. Pico boasts the finest natural swimming holes in the archipelago, too, and the longest lava tube in Europe, which reaches over 3 miles, so there’s plenty to enjoy whilst exploring the island. Given Pico’s central location in the Azores, it is a good departure point for the rest of the archipelago. From the island’s main port on the north-central coast, numerous ferry routes are provided to most of the other islands.

About Sao Miguel

Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Portuguese Azores, measures just over seven hundred squared-kilometres in the North Atlantic. Two volcanic ranges, three crater lakes and the largest city of the island group, Sao Miguel offers everything that makes this archipelago so wonderful. And although life moves at a gentle pace, there is plenty to excite. The vibrant capital, Ponta Delgada showcases some of the nation’s finest 17th Century architecture, museums and restaurants, whilst the award-winning Terra Nostra Park boasts some excellent walking trails. The most sumptuous views can be found throughout the Furnas valley towards the east, with its beautiful flower-lined lake, botanical garden and countless hot springs. Sao Miguel is part of the Azorean Eastern Group, with nearly every island providing ferry routes to Ponta Delgada. The journey times can vary considerably from each island, so depending on where you depart, booking some spacious accommodation is advisable.