Things to do in Madalena

Activities, attractions and tours

If you are traveling to the Açores (Azores), I highly recommend a stop on Pico Island. The unique landscape of volcanic rock, historical vineyards, and Mount Pico jutting out of the center of the island are breathtaking. You can stay on the island, or if you prefer, you can stay in Horta on Faial Island and take the ferry across for the day. Here, we captured the pinks of the sunset reflecting on Mount Pico as we pulled out of the ferry station in Madalena, headed back to Horta. #InStone #VolcanicRock #MountPico #Azores
If you are traveling to the Açores (Azores), I highly recommend a stop on Pico Island. The unique landscape of volcanic rock, historical vineyards, and Mount Pico jutting out of the center of the island are breathtaking. You can stay on the island, or if you prefer, you can stay in Horta on Faial Island and take the ferry across for the day. Here, we captured the pinks of the sunset reflecting on Mount Pico as we pulled out of the ferry station in Madalena, headed back to Horta. #InStone #VolcanicRock #MountPico #Azores
This is a photo of the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyards UNESCO World Heritage site. Here and in a few other areas of the island, you’ll see the land divided up into small rectangular plots by piles of black basalt (volcanic rock formed by lava), a centuries-old practice. These walls protect the vines from the strong ocean winds and salt water spray as well as warm the grapes. Vineyards literally #InStone . #volcanic #PicoIsland #Azores #historicvineyards
Hiking through hardened lava flow to reach the peak of the volcano. Feeling the warmth from the volcano and getting views like you're on top of the world!
Just south of Madalena on Pico Island is the Criação Velha wine region. We turned off the main road onto a narrow road with dry basalt stone walls guarding vines on either side. It led out to the coastline where old lava patches meet the ocean and overlook Faial Island. The late afternoon sun rays made the landscape glisten and I had a strong urge to work on a (my own?!) vineyard here some day.

Similar to a few other areas of the island, the land is divided up into small rectangular plots by piles of volcanic rock (basalt). It's a centuries-old practice to protect the vines from the strong ocean winds and salt water spray as well as warm the grapes. 

Vineyards literally #InStone . #volcanic #PicoIsland #Azores #vineyards

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What to do in Madalena


Popular places to visit

Frequently asked questions

Is Madalena worth visiting?
Whether you plan to enjoy the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there are many things to do in Madalena.
How do I spend a day in Madalena?
Kick your day off with a visit to Mount Pico and São João Forest Reserve. Then, explore other parts of Madalena for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Madalena?
You can't leave without visiting São João Forest Reserve, rated the top tourist attraction in Madalena.
Is three days enough to stay in Madalena?
Three days is enough for a quick escape to Madalena — you'll tick off the main sights and get a good feel for the place. But if you really want to soak it all in, stick around for at least a week to explore the surrounding areas too.
What are some activities to do in Madalena with kids?
If you're searching for activities and attractions for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what to do in Madalena with kids.

What to do in Madalena for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Madalena for adults including Porto Pim Whale Factory Museum.
Are there free things to do in Madalena?
There's a range of cheap things to do in Madalena. Stroll through the parks or soak up the vibes at free events and festivals. Madalena offers plenty of budget-friendly activities that let you experience this area without taking your wallet out.