Distant blue vistas over the sea, tranquil lakes in high volcanic craters, strange rugged cliff formations of black basalt, green uplands and small stone houses, the tiny island of Pico in the Azores packs a big scenic punch for its size.

The island was formed by a volcano, so tall that its top is the highest point in Portugal. Clouds gather round the summit in constantly changing patterns. Down on the coast you can still see lava from the most recent eruption, set in rope patterns or forming caves and sea arches.

The mountain is a nature reserve. Trees and bushes of giant heather grow high on the sides. There are signposted walking trails with map available from the Tourist Office. The lower slopes are a green patchwork of walled fields with cows grazing.

Early settlers used the harsh rocky areas for wine production, painstakingly clearing small fields by piling up rocks the around them. This distinctive landscape is now a UNESCO World heritage site. Windmills built by early settlers have been restored as landmarks too. Wines are still produced on the island and there is a wood fired distillery which makes liqueurs flavoured with local fruit and herbs.

Whaling was another way of surviving and you can see two museums standing as memorials to this gruesome trade, now happily replaced by a thriving whale watching business with daily boats. Cetacean sightings are almost guaranteed as sperm whales and dolphins live here all year round, and other species visit as they migrate.

The island has no beaches, but there are natural swimming pools formed by rocks around the shore. Scuba diving is available with a dive shop in the capital Madalena.

Pico is a great destination for a relaxing outdoor holiday in a beautiful environment.

Written by  Jenny Fowler.

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