Top reasons to visit Pico Island
- Majestic Mount Pico: Hike to the highest peak in Portugal, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable outdoor challenge.
- Wine Tasting: Explore the unique vineyards of Pico Island, renowned for its distinctive wines produced in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Whale Watching: Experience thrilling boat tours to observe magnificent whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Charming Towns: Discover picturesque towns with rich culture, local cuisine, and friendly locals, perfect for leisurely exploration.
- Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to lush nature preserves, ideal for outdoor adventures.
Find great hotels near Pico Island
Experience the enchanting charm of Pico Island with a variety of lodging options tailored to adventurous travellers. From picturesque resorts to cosy guesthouses, you can find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a sea view at Pico Terramar, a tranquil stay at Calhau Accommodation, or the convenience of XA Apartments, there’s something for everyone on this stunning island, ensuring a memorable pet-friendly getaway amidst breathtaking landscapes.
- Sara Village: Nestled 6km from Pico Island, Sara Village is a charming 3-star Country House that radiates a warm, rustic appeal. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this accommodation is ideal for those seeking an adventure-filled beach getaway. The property features direct access to the beach, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the coastal experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of adventure sports, including onsite fishing and nearby snorkelling and horse riding. This picturesque setting is perfect for travellers looking to combine relaxation with outdoor excitement.
- Pico Dreams - Sportfish: A highly-rated guesthouse with an impressive 9.2 out of 10 rating, Pico Dreams - Sportfish is also located 6km from Pico Island. This 3-star accommodation is tailored for adventurous souls and pet lovers alike, offering a welcoming environment for furry companions. Exciting activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing are readily available nearby, along with snorkelling options. The property is pet-friendly, allowing certain pets onsite with a well-defined policy, making it a great choice for those wishing to explore the island with their pets.
- 35th Atlantic View: Situated 6km from Pico Island, the 35th Atlantic View offers a cosy Bed & Breakfast experience, earning a respectable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This 3-star lodging is perfect for travellers seeking adventure, with a variety of recreational activities available both onsite and nearby, including kayaking, fishing, and boat tours. The inviting atmosphere and proximity to nature make it an excellent choice for those eager to explore the stunning landscapes of the Azores while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Where to stay near Pico Island
Pico Island, a stunning gem in the Azores, promises an unforgettable holiday experience. Renowned for its majestic landscapes, charming vineyards, and rich cultural heritage, it's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Explore the picturesque towns and indulge in local cuisine, all while surrounded by friendly locals. With its breathtaking scenery and historical sites, a visit to Pico Island is an essential part of any Azores trip, ensuring an adventure steeped in beauty and culture.
- Sao Roque do Pico: Situated approximately 5km from Pico Island, Sao Roque do Pico is a charming city that invites outdoor enthusiasts and eco-conscious travellers. Known for its stunning hiking trails and well-maintained golf courses, this destination offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The surrounding nature reserve and picturesque parks showcase the region’s natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. With visitor numbers peaking from June to August, it’s a popular choice for summer vacations, ensuring a lively atmosphere filled with fellow adventurers.
- Madalena: Located around 13km from Pico Island, Madalena is a vibrant city that captures the hearts of those seeking outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, it offers a range of activities including hiking and golfing. The proximity to majestic mountains and serene nature reserves adds to its appeal, making it a perfect destination for couples and nature lovers alike. With peak visitor numbers from July to September, Madalena offers a lively summer experience, complete with stunning sunsets and outdoor dining options.
- Lajes do Pico: Just 10km from Pico Island, Lajes do Pico is an enchanting city that attracts eco-friendly travellers and adventure seekers. The area is renowned for its captivating hiking trails and golf courses, set against a backdrop of lush parks and scenic mountains. The city sees increased visitor numbers in July, September, and December, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter experience outside the peak summer months. With its commitment to preserving nature and offering exhilarating outdoor activities, Lajes do Pico is a must-visit for those seeking an adventurous yet sustainable holiday.
Things to do in Pico Island
Shopping
Pico Island offers a charming shopping experience with local markets and unique boutiques. Visit the Mercado Municipal in Madalena for artisanal goods and regional delicacies. In the main towns, you'll find small shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, reflecting the island’s rich culture and heritage.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Aldeia da Fonte, where you can indulge in holistic treatments and rejuvenating massages surrounded by lush gardens. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking the stunning trails of Pico offers breathtaking vistas and a connection to nature that enhances your wellness journey.
Adventure
Explore the captivating landscapes of Pico Island by hiking to the summit of Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal. Experience the thrill of whale watching tours, where you might spot majestic sperm whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Enjoy local wine tasting at the scenic vineyards of Madalena.
Nightlife
Pico Island offers a relaxed nightlife with charming venues like the lively Bar do Cais, where you can enjoy local wines, and the vibrant O Lagar, known for its traditional music. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the quaint cafés dotting the island, perfect for evening chats.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pico Island
To save money on your trip to Pico Island, consider visiting between December and February when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best deals, particularly on Fridays, which are cheaper than Thursdays. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, filter by budget, and choose eco-certified hotels. Additionally, combine your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings. Explore free activities such as hiking and enjoying the stunning landscapes, which provide a wonderful experience without added costs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Pico Island are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Pico Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Pico Island is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Pico Island is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable options and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation on Pico Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Pico Island
Pico Island, a picturesque destination in the Azores, is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure, romantic getaways, and entertainment. The island boasts a variety of attractions, including nature preserves, museums, and the majestic Mount Pico. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and experience thrilling activities while exploring the stunning landscapes and local points of interest. Enjoy the unique charm of Pico Island and discover its many treasures.
- São João Forest Reserve: Located 6km from Pico Island, this serene reserve offers scenic views and tranquil excursions amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere while exploring its diverse flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
- Mount Pico: Also 6km away, this majestic mountain invites adventure seekers to experience breathtaking scenery. The outdoor vibes are invigorating, and hiking to the summit provides a thrilling challenge, rewarding you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Caiado Lagoon: Just 6km from Pico Island, this picturesque lake blends beach and outdoor charm with a hint of romance. Its serene waters and scenic surroundings create a tranquil escape, ideal for leisurely strolls or a peaceful day by the water.
Best time to go to Pico Island
The best time to visit Pico Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Pico Island falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Pico Island falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Pico Island
Accessing Pico Island is convenient through several major airports. Angra do Heroismo (TER-Lajes Intl.) is 113km away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Angra Marina Hotel and the 4-star Hotel Praia Marina, both approximately 10 and 5km from the airport, respectively. Pico Island (PIX) is only 14km away, featuring hotels such as the 4-star Hotel Caravelas and Vinhas do Calhau, both around 5 and 11km from the airport. Horta (HOR) is 35km from Pico Island, with nearby accommodations like Azoris Faial Garden and Hotel do Canal, both 8km away. Each hotel provides accessible transport services to their respective airports.