If you have mobility issues or are travelling with very young children, the rugged lava landscapes may prove challenging. If your ideal holiday revolves around long sandy beaches, guaranteed sunshine and cocktails by the sea, these islands probably aren’t for you. And if you’re searching for a bustling city, lively nightlife and all the conveniences of a major tourist destination, you’ll be disappointed.
But if you’re looking for somewhere truly special, Faial and Pico will steal your heart!
Instead, enjoy these remarkable Azorean islands for their unforgettable authenticity, dramatic volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear natural swimming pools, spectacular hiking trails, exceptional seafood, regional cheeses and wines, and an incredible range of water-based adventures – from sailing, whale watching, scuba diving and snorkelling, to sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
These islands reward those who embrace nature and a slower pace of life, and rank among Europe’s most spectacular and unspoilt destinations.
Faial, affectionately known as the “Blue Island”, is famous for the stunning hydrangea hedges that line its country roads and frame the island's beautiful rural and coastal vistas.
The island’s capital, Horta, is home to one of the world’s most iconic marinas, a famous stopover for sailors crossing the Atlantic. Its graffiti-covered harbour walls stand as a unique testament to the thousands of seafarers who have passed through, leaving behind paintings and messages in the hope of good fortune on future voyages or in gratitude for a safe crossing.
Highlights of Faial: Experience the dramatic Capelinhos Volcano, where the interpretation centre and lighthouse tell the story of one of the Azores’ most recent eruptions, before cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of the Varadouro Ocean Pools.
There are many scenic walking trails across Faial, but a hike around the magnificent Caldeira – the vast volcanic crater at the heart of the island – is an absolute must. Along the way, watch contented dairy cows grazing on impossibly green pastures and enjoy the magnificent views towards Pico Island.
Wander through Horta’s historic streets and admire vibrant street art celebrating both its maritime heritage and religious traditions, including the colourful marina murals. Visit the Fábrica da Baleia de Porto Pim (Whaling Station Museum) and the fascinating Scrimshaw Museum, then take time to step inside some of Faial’s charming churches and chapels.
Where to Stay: Scrimshaw House – “Enjoying breathtaking panoramic views over Horta Marina and Pico Island, this elegant Faial retreat with sauna and jacuzzi offers a luxurious base for exploring the natural beauty of the Azores”.
Sip and Savour: No trip to Faial is complete without a stop at Peter Café Sport – a true Azorean institution and a legendary meeting place for sailors crossing the Atlantic. Possibly the world’s most famous yachting bar, its walls are adorned with yacht pennants and stories from every corner of the globe, while its passion fruit gin and tonics are legendary.
For a more intimate culinary experience, book a table at Cantinho das Provas. This welcoming wine bar and restaurant celebrates the best of the Azores, pairing beautifully prepared local produce with an excellent selection of Portuguese wines. Expect seasonal dishes showcasing fresh Atlantic seafood, artisan cheeses, and regional specialities, all served with warm Azorean hospitality.
In Horta’s Municipal Market you will also find some fun eateries serving artisan burgers and craft beer, or you can cook your own food on lava stone.
And you can stock up on products from the islands of the Azorean triangle (Faial, Pico and São Jorge) such as Picaroto wine, cheeses, spirits and even edible seaweed.
Pico Island is dominated by Portugal’s highest mountain – the majestic Mount Pico. An island of dramatic contrasts, where black volcanic rock meets the deep blue Atlantic, Pico is also home to UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyards, where vines have been cultivated for centuries within thousands of hand-built lava-stone walls, creating one of Europe’s most extraordinary wine-growing landscapes.
Highlights of Pico: Enjoy nature walks and picnics, climb Mount Pico and swim in beautiful natural pools. Look out for the traditional, red-roofed windmills and quaint basalt houses, while its regional handicraft school is well worth stopping by.
Take a boat trip around the island in search of dolphins and whales, before visiting Pico’s fascinating whaling museums (there are two), to learn about the island’s rich seafaring heritage. Finally, wander through the centuries-old Criação Velha Vineyards and experience Pico’s thriving wine culture, producing some of the Azores’ finest wines.
Where to Stay:
Pico Cottages – “A charming collection of cottages arranged like a hamlet, offering excellent amenities and enjoying superb views in a lush, tranquil coastal setting on Pico.”
Island View Villa - "A one-of-a-kind villa featuring state-of-the-art interiors, a heated infinity pool and a jacuzzi, with spectacular views over Pico’s iconic vineyards and out towards the ocean and Faial Island."
Sip and Savour: No visit to Pico is complete without stopping at the Azores Wine Company. This striking, award-winning brutalist-style winery set amidst lava-stone vineyard “currais” is a destination in its own right and the perfect place to taste the unique volcanic wines that have put Pico firmly on the international wine map.
You can arrange a guided tour and wine tasting, perfectly paired with a generous platter of cheeses, olives, smoked meats, assorted breads, dried fruits and nuts. Or, if you prefer, you can book a table at their restaurant, Latitude.
Located within the grounds of our featured Pico Cottages, Magma Restaurant is independently owned and operated. The restaurant celebrates Pico’s volcanic terroir through seasonal tasting menus featuring locally sourced seafood, meat and island-grown ingredients. A great choice for food lovers looking for something more refined.
Considered Pico’s signature restaurant, Cella Bar in Madalena is an architectural masterpiece overlooking the Atlantic. Designed to resemble a traditional wine barrel, it serves beautifully presented dishes showcasing Azorean produce, beef and seafood, alongside an excellent selection of Pico wines. Sunsets here are unforgettable.
How to Travel to Faial and Pico Islands: Landing on the edge of the Atlantic, with cliffs rising from the ocean below, is pure adrenaline!
For international travellers, the easiest way to reach the Azores is to connect via Lisbon (on the Portuguese mainland) to your chosen island. Azores Airlines SATA operates regular direct flights from Lisbon to both islands, with a flight time of approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.
Each island also has a ferry terminal, with regular services connecting many of the islands. Pico, Faial and São Jorge are particularly easy to visit on a day trip.
