Pico Island offers a truly unique wine tasting experience that immerses visitors in its rich cultural heritage and volcanic terroir. Guests have the opportunity to interact directly with independent producers, sampling limited-edition and low-intervention wines that showcase the island’s distinctive flavors. The tour includes guided walks through UNESCO World Heritage volcanic vineyards, as well as tastings of local delicacies, providing an authentic taste of Pico’s culinary traditions. This enchanting island experience combines breathtaking scenery with deep cultural insights, leaving you eager to discover more about this captivating destination.
Key Points
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Explore the UNESCO World Heritage volcanic vineyards of Pico Island through a guided walk and tastings of limited-edition, low-intervention wines.
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Interact directly with independent local wine producers to learn about their unique production methods and the influence of the island’s terroir.
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Indulge in authentic regional cuisine, including delicacies like Pico crabs, and discover hidden natural pools for an exclusive swimming experience.
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Immerse in the cultural and wine-making heritage of Pico Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with insights from a knowledgeable local guide.
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Conveniently book a 5-hour small-group tour with flexible options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour is likely to sell out quickly, as it offers a unique opportunity to explore the volcanic vineyards and wine culture of Pico Island.
Priced from £118.58 per person, the 5-hour small-group experience is limited to 8 participants and available in English, French, and Spanish.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour’s highlights include a scenic drive, a guided walk through volcanic vineyards, an optional swim in secret natural pools, local food and drink tastings, and a visit to a winery for wine sampling.
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Itinerary and Activities
Starting from the João Quaresma Maritime Ferry Terminal in Madalena, the tour begins with a scenic 20-minute drive. Next, guests explore the UNESCO World Heritage volcanic vineyards for an hour. An optional 30-minute stop allows for swimming or snorkeling in secret natural pools. The experience continues at a local bar, where participants indulge in 45 minutes of regional food and drink tastings. The final 1.5 hours are spent at a winery, sampling limited edition and low-intervention wines. Throughout the journey, travelers enjoy 30 minutes of breathtaking scenery.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Scenic drive | 20 minutes |
| Walk through volcanic vineyards | 1 hour |
| Secret stop for swimming/snorkeling (optional) | 30 minutes |
| Local bar for food and drink tasting | 45 minutes |
| Winery visit for wine tasting | 1.5 hours |
| Scenic views during travel | 30 minutes |
Unique Features of the Experience
The tour’s unique features allow visitors to deeply enjoy the cultural and wine-making heritage of Pico Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004.
Guests interact directly with local independent wine producers, tasting limited editions and low-intervention wines. They also experience unique local food tastings, including regional delicacies like local crabs.
The tour further takes visitors to secret natural pools, providing an opportunity to swim and snorkel in the island’s volcanic landscapes.
These exclusive experiences offer a truly authentic and immersive exploration of Pico’s rich wine and cultural traditions.
Included Services
The tour’s included services provide visitors with a comprehensive and immersive experience in Pico Island’s wine and cultural heritage.
Guests can look forward to a guided walk through the UNESCO Heritage site, sampling up to 5 local wines, liqueurs, and waters.
They’ll also enjoy up to 5 food tastings featuring regional specialties like cheeses, fruits, and traditional snacks.
Private transportation and a knowledgeable local guide ensure a seamless and enlightening journey.
While hotel pick-up/drop-off and gratuities aren’t included, the tour’s value-packed offerings make for an unforgettable exploration of Pico’s unique terroir and culinary delights.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Recommendations
This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the initial walk covers 700 meters on uneven volcanic lava rocks and flat soil.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
The tour meets at a small statue of Gilberto Mariano da Silva near the CW Azores water sports shop in Madalena Village.
While gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off aren’t included, the guided experience by a local food expert and up to 5 drink and food tastings are part of the included services.
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Meeting Point and Transportation
According to the provided information, the tour meets at a small statue of Gilberto Mariano da Silva, located near the CW Azores water sports shop in Madalena Village.
From there, you will embark on a 20-minute scenic drive to the starting location of the tour – the João Quaresma Maritime Ferry Terminal.
Private transportation is included as part of the tour services, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for participants.
The meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour guide will be on-site to greet and guide the group throughout the day’s activities on Pico Island.
Cultural Immersion and Local Experiences
One of the highlights of this Pico Island wine tasting and cultural experience is the opportunity to take in the local way of life.
Visitors will:
- Interact directly with independent wine producers and learn about their unique, low-intervention winemaking techniques
- Taste limited-edition and hard-to-find wines that showcase the volcanic terroir of the UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Indulge in authentic local cuisine, including regional delicacies like Pico crabs and traditional snacks
- Visit a secret natural swimming pool, a hidden gem known only to locals
- Gain insights into the island’s history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide
This deep dive into Pico’s traditions and flavors provides an unparalleled culture for travelers.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Frequently, travelers can easily book this wine tasting and cultural experience on Pico Island.
The tour is priced from £118.58 per person and lasts 5 hours. It’s limited to small groups of 8 participants or fewer, with options in English, French, and Spanish.
Booking is flexible, as travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour features a guided walk through volcanic vineyards, wine tastings, local food samplings, and visits to secret natural pools – all providing an immersive exploration of Pico’s UNESCO-protected wine culture and stunning landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no minimum age requirement mentioned for this tour. Participants of all ages can join, though the itinerary may not be suitable for young children or those with limited mobility. Parental supervision is advised for minors.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?
Yes, the tour can accommodate dietary restrictions. Travellers should notify the tour operator in advance so they can make arrangements for any special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
Are There Any Safety Precautions for the Swimming/Snorkeling Activity?
The swimming/snorkeling activity has safety precautions in place. Participants must wear life jackets and follow the guide’s instructions. They’ll be taken to a calm, shallow natural pool with a guide present to ensure their safety.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Private or Corporate Groups?
Yes, the tour can be customized for private or corporate groups. Group sizes, itinerary, and activities can be tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of the group.
What Is the Policy for Late Arrivals or Missed Tour Components?
The tour’s policy is flexible for late arrivals or missed components. Guests who arrive late or miss any part of the tour can still participate in the remaining activities, subject to availability. The guide will make reasonable efforts to accommodate them.
Recap
Pico Island’s wine tasting experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the island’s rich cultural heritage and volcanic terroir. Guests can directly interact with independent producers, sample limited-edition wines, and explore UNESCO World Heritage vineyards, providing an authentic taste of Pico’s culinary traditions. This enchanting island experience combines breathtaking scenery with deep cultural insights, creating an unforgettable adventure.
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