The ‘Secret’ Volcanic Island Named Among the World’s Best for a Secluded Escape

One of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic, about midway between the Portuguese mainland and the eastern coast of the U.S., Pico was recently named among the world’s best lesser-known islands for a “perfect secluded escape” by Travel + Leisure. As the publication notes, when Columbus made his world-changing expedition, it was considered a last outpost before one would “fall off the edge of the earth.” The island still has that same remote feel as it did well over 500 years ago. 

It took me more than a decade to finally visit after learning about Pico in a 2009 episode of Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations,” having put it on my bucket list for its unique landscapes, volcanic wines, and whales. Unless you watched that episode, there’s a good chance you’ve never even heard about Pico, but of course, that’s what makes it so ideal for a secluded escape.

If you’re into all things nature and prefer to avoid the crowds that popular islands like Hawaii are known for, visiting Pico is sure to be a dream come true. You’re unlikely to encounter the masses, but you will find magnificent beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventure. That includes a wide range of hiking opportunities, from easy coastal paths for tranquil strolls to the challenging trek to the top of Mount Pico, the highest in Portugal at over 7,700 feet. 

Pico is also renowned for some of the world’s best whale watching, with over 20 different species passing through its waters. Some are here year-round, including sperm whales. Blue, fin, Bryde’s, and humpback whales are just a few of the others commonly spotted, depending on the season. Bottlenose, Risso’s, and other dolphins can often be seen too. April and May are best for blue and fin whales, but summer is the very best time to come if you’re most interested in spotting cetaceans. 

Beyond the whales, many come for Pico’s unique volcanic wines. The island vineyards are listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, as they represent a unique cultural response to viniculture in a remote and challenging setting. The islanders ingeniously built vast networks of walls from volcanic stones called currais that shield grapevines from the harsh Atlantic winds and salty sea spray, traditional methods of sustainable farming that have been preserved since the 15th century. The result is distinct wines known for their freshness and high mineral content. 

Visitors can learn more about Pico’s vineyards and winemaking at Museu do Vinho, the Wine Museum. It’s also possible to view the picturesque vineyards by walking the Criação Velha vineyards trail that travels through the island’s UNESCO-protected wine country.

As Pico has such a rich local ecosystem, the islanders are aware of how important it is to keep it protected, which means many of the island’s activities are geared toward minimizing environmental impact. Hotels and other local accommodations are also known to respect the environment by using eco-friendly practices like efficient energy and water management, while architecture harmoniously integrates into the landscape. It’s the ideal place for travelers seeking an authentic ecotourism experience.