Walking In The Azores

Arrive at the hotel in Madalena, Pico, our base for the first three nights of the trip. Depending on when everyone arrives, there will be a welcome briefing either this evening or tomorrow morning. Pico is known as the Black Island thanks to the black volcanic earth used to build walls on many of the Unesco-listed vineyards. It is also home to the highest peak in Portugal, Mount Pico, which stands at 7,713ft (2,351m) and dominates the horizon.

We start the week with a transfer to the central highlands of Pico, by Caminho das Lagoas, where we begin our hike. After following a dirt track, we take a path that leads close to the Cabeço do Mistério volcanic zone, formed in 1562-1564 during the longest volcanic eruption since people settled in the Azores. It's common to encounter fog and mist in this zone, and amongst the dense vegetation we may come across endemic species such as the Azores spurge (Euphorbia stygiana). Following the route, we begin our descent to Pico's northern coast, passing through pastures and noticing how the vegetation increases in size as we descend. We continue towards the coast through a forest of acacia and Azores laurel in the Prainha Forest Park until we reach our destination for today, Baía das Canas, where it may be possible to have a short swim (weather conditions and time permitting). Alternatively, today is the perfect opportunity to join an optional challenging trek to the top of Mount Pico. This is a very strenuous six-to-seven-hour climb, which will be led by a local mountain guide. The excursion must be booked in advance of the trip and is always subject to availability and favourable weather conditions (for further information please check the Extra Expenses & Spending Money section of the Trip Notes). Ascent: 49ft (15m); Descent: 2,625ft (800m)

Apart from offering unique walking opportunities, the Azores is among the best places on the planet to spot whales and dolphins. There are 80 species of whale and dolphin and 25 of them have been sighted off the coast here, with sperm whale the most common. There is also the chance to spot bottle-nose dolphins, short-finned pilot whales, sei whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins and blue whales. If you choose to go on an excursion, you will have the chance to observe the behaviour of these wonderful creatures and learn more about their habitat with the help of the knowledgeable local experts on board. We observe strict protocols regarding interaction, always maintaining an appropriate distance. Moreover, during feeding and resting times, we avoid any interference with the natural habitat of the whales. Please note the whale-watching excursion must be booked in advance of your trip. Please speak to your sales representative for more details. In the afternoon, we embark on a largely coastal trail, notable for its scenic and cultural diversity, and which connects the village of Candelária to Areia Larga (part of Madalena town). This trail passes through an area protected by Unesco for its unique vineyard culture and is one of the most emblematic features of the island. Azorean vineyards are a sight to behold. Built to protect the vines from the harsh sea winds, they amount to row after row of black horseshoe shapes that score the lush, green coastline. What is more impressive is how the vines grow on the ground and through volcanic rock, rather than supported by a trellis. Our trail is rich in elements associated with vineyard culture such as rola-pipas (carved slopes to enable wine barrels to be slid along the ground to the waiting boats) and relheiras (tracks left by the wheels of ox carts). The path winds from the coast, then inland to circumnavigate hills, and back to the coast, with sections offering beautiful views over the vineyards and the islets of Madalena. We end by walking along the ocean-front until we reach Areia Larga. Ascent: 246ft (75m); descent: 246ft (75m)