The Project

Visiting the sites and exploring the trails on foot or by bicycle is the ultimate experience! You’ll have time to truly take in the landscape, connect with nature and its heritage, and engage with the local community and its customs.

Criação Velha is a truly unique place, full of the essence that earned it UNESCO recognition. But the character of the wine and vineyards goes beyond the landscape—it’s woven into the fabric of the community, reflected in its customs, traditions, cultural and religious life, and, above all, in its authenticity.

Lose yourself in the vast basalt labyrinths of the vineyards, visit the churches and the ‘império’, admire the manor houses, understand the vital role of the tidal wells, and pay close attention to the flora and fauna—you might even spot rare and endemic species.

People’s attachment to their land is also reflected in their well-being during daily life, festivals, and leisure time, which they gladly share with others. Public squares are the preferred venues for festivities, along with green spaces and picnic parks, which also serve as great spots for physical activity. Continuing with the theme of leisure and exercise, the Laja das Rosas bathing area is perfect for a relaxing dip in the sea and a snack at the end of the day. Heading up the path toward the mountains, you’ll come across Portugal’s largest lava tube: the Gruta das Torres.

Visiting places means experiencing, enjoying, respecting, preserving, and protecting them — not just physically, but also in their intangible aspects. So don’t miss the chance to join a roda de chamarrita— the vibrant round dance deeply tied to Azorean cultural heritage — or to take part in the Holy Spirit festivities.

And no experience would be complete without savouring the best and most traditional products Criação Velha has to offer. Here you can taste and buy one of Pico Island’s finest cheeses, as well as traditional corn cakes and bread, bolos lêvedos, and other sweet pastries. In a land of wines and spirits, seek out the wine cellars — you might be lucky enough to witness the distillation process. And still appealing to both your palate and our history, try the regional wines and discover the best grape varieties and internationally awarded wines.