A visit to Pico is a unique experience in the open, concerning the volcanism of the Azorean archipelago. Known for being the highest point in Portugal (2350m), this island has several geosites worth visiting.
The proposed itinerary begins with a visit to Gruta das Torres, the largest lava tube known in Portugal, with a total length of 5150 m. This cavity was formed by lava flows from a volcanic eruption originating in Cabeço Bravo, in the volcanic complex of Pico Mountain. Classified as a Natural Monument of Pico Nature Park, visiting the interior of Gruta das Torres is an experience you cannot miss.
We head for a walk along the Mistério de São João Recreation Forest Reserve. These infertile and stony soils resulted from an eruption that began on February 2, 1718, resulting in intense seismicity, shrill noises and the emission of 6 lava rivers, from an opening located between Terra do Pão and Companhia de Cima. This eruption was responsible for the destruction of many houses and of the local church. The name “mistério”, meaning mystery, comes precisely from the designation that the inhabitants attributed to these volcanic phenomena, often devastating and also incomprehensible by the common population. Currently, the recreational forest possesses a wide range of leisure equipment, where we can also visit the Forestry Outreach Center, dedicated to the subject of volcanism.
Up next, we visit the Arrife Viewpoint, from where we can appreciate an incredible view over the Ribeiras' Lava Delta, located on the southern coast of Pico island. This fajã was formed mainly by lavic flows emitted around 3,500 years ago, which made the island grow, forming a fossil cliff.
Lastly, we finish in the Lajes do Pico Viewpoint, with an excellent view over the Lajes do Pico Lava Delta, as well as over the village with the same name. From here, there can also be observed several geosites of great interest for understanding the volcanic evolution of the island: Pico Mountain, the Historic Eruptions of 1718 and 1720, the Topo Volcano and the “Castelete”, an old scoria cone's chimney, eroded by the sea.
