SV Inishnee: Pico, Azores 2017

A day trip to Pico…

Pico by ferry

The crews of Inish and Inishnee took the first morning ferry to Pico. 7 euros and 20 minutes 4 nautical miles. Pico juts out of the sea and climbs to a black basalt conical point of 2,351m. First impressions were from the many vineyards blanketing the Fajas along the shore line.

Basalt walls create the lattice framework for the thousands of retaining walls ( currais) consuming the gentle mountain slopes down to the sea. The volcanic origins leaving plenty of sediment for rich fertile soil. Each section protecting a few vines which provide a harvest of grapes for wine. Quite good and very reasonably priced. Vino Verde Green wine, served young) one of the specialties of the area.

Pico is tear drop shaped, approximately 38 x 14 (bulge) km. The coastal area is largely plateau gently rising to its iconic peak (pico). Cattle and cows graze at higher elevations. Hydrangeas bloom along the road sides and stone fence walls. Windmills in various sites of decay or repair dot the landscape. Fishing is practiced for both sale and home kitchens.

The village Lajes do Pico has a thriving community in tourism offering hostels and hotels, restaurants, whale / dolphin watching, a sea side setting with natural and manmade pools and a marina. They host one of the best museums of the islands with of course the obligatory whaling history while including a glimpse into everyday life. Products produced and displayed include weaving and rugs. Household items; chairs, cutlery and dishes. Farm equipment and images of locals from past eras.

A long and winding road leads to a terminus at a new visitors center where you can climb to the summit of Pico. Todays visit was interlaced with mist and clouds, we opted to take in the view from the parking lot and forgo the 2 + hour hike to the top. With 4 sudo Irish crew… the luck of the Irish gave us a short but inspiring view of the tip of Pico, the clouds parting for several minutes…

cheese…