Trilha de Vinhas
Trilha de Vinhas
4.5
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.5
46 reviews
Excellent
31
Very good
13
Average
2
Poor
0
Terrible
0
GRZ
Chicago, IL11,673 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
While we stayed at the Azores Wine Company and were surrounded by similar fields I must admit the red mill in this area makes a huge difference :) plus here it's the west side of the island, much flatter and sunnier.
It's just a really nice and scenic area, take your time to walk around and enjoy - it's open to everyone, so you don't have to book any tours - different brands grow their wines here and you can even see their brand tags here and there.
TIP: this is the area in the west of Pico, south of the Pico Wines (which I highly recommend touring/visiting for sampling), as there is a similar trail/vineyard in the north
It's just a really nice and scenic area, take your time to walk around and enjoy - it's open to everyone, so you don't have to book any tours - different brands grow their wines here and you can even see their brand tags here and there.
TIP: this is the area in the west of Pico, south of the Pico Wines (which I highly recommend touring/visiting for sampling), as there is a similar trail/vineyard in the north
Written 6 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brun066
Florence, Italy13,361 contributions
Apr 2017 • Friends
This is perhaps the only hiking trail in the "Visitazores" official list, which can be done by walking directly from Madalena; And we did it in that way.
In fact, the trail starts at so called "Joao Lima" point, perhaps 1.5 Kms south of the Madalena harbor, walking along the coast path. It reaches the "Porto do Calhau" cove; form there a paved road (but with very little traffic) leads to the coastal R-1-2 Highway, just south of the "Monte" village.
To return to Madalena, possibly you can take advantage of the "Cristiano Limitada" public bus that has a stop on the Highway, just at the junction with Porto do Calhau road: but be aware that the only return bus ride available for hikers, at least in April (when we traveled), stops here around 3 pm (at 2:40 pm on public holidays).
Alternatively, you can leave Madalena by bus at 10 am (9:30 am on public holidays), get off at the first stop after "Monte" village, then take the path in reverse direction.
The trail, well-marked, takes place in one of the two most interesting areas (the other one is on the Pico north coast) which extensively feature the phenomenon of ancient vineyards enclosed in tiny parcels lined by lava stone walls.
These vineyards are one of the two entities of the Azores classified as UNESCO heritage; And in fact they give an adequate idea of the hard life of the peasants, for which every vine plant involved the tiring construction of a wall around it.
I realized that in addition to protecting the vines from the wind, these walls had the function of gathering the heat of summer (thanks to the black color of the rocks) and gradually releasing it at night during the most favorable period for maturing of grapes. However, this is a powerful and patient undertaking, which has engaged many generations.
We have caught some signs of recovery of the vineyard, probably due to the new reputation that to it (and to the "Verdelho" wine here obtained) was attributed by the UNESCO brand.
This is without doubt one of the most interesting trails on the island of Pico; And probably that one which allows more space to local culture, as well as to nature.
In fact, the trail starts at so called "Joao Lima" point, perhaps 1.5 Kms south of the Madalena harbor, walking along the coast path. It reaches the "Porto do Calhau" cove; form there a paved road (but with very little traffic) leads to the coastal R-1-2 Highway, just south of the "Monte" village.
To return to Madalena, possibly you can take advantage of the "Cristiano Limitada" public bus that has a stop on the Highway, just at the junction with Porto do Calhau road: but be aware that the only return bus ride available for hikers, at least in April (when we traveled), stops here around 3 pm (at 2:40 pm on public holidays).
Alternatively, you can leave Madalena by bus at 10 am (9:30 am on public holidays), get off at the first stop after "Monte" village, then take the path in reverse direction.
The trail, well-marked, takes place in one of the two most interesting areas (the other one is on the Pico north coast) which extensively feature the phenomenon of ancient vineyards enclosed in tiny parcels lined by lava stone walls.
These vineyards are one of the two entities of the Azores classified as UNESCO heritage; And in fact they give an adequate idea of the hard life of the peasants, for which every vine plant involved the tiring construction of a wall around it.
I realized that in addition to protecting the vines from the wind, these walls had the function of gathering the heat of summer (thanks to the black color of the rocks) and gradually releasing it at night during the most favorable period for maturing of grapes. However, this is a powerful and patient undertaking, which has engaged many generations.
We have caught some signs of recovery of the vineyard, probably due to the new reputation that to it (and to the "Verdelho" wine here obtained) was attributed by the UNESCO brand.
This is without doubt one of the most interesting trails on the island of Pico; And probably that one which allows more space to local culture, as well as to nature.
Written 6 May 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Globetrotter045
Haacht, Belgium5,406 contributions
Jun 2019 • Solo
An easy trail through the vineyards of Pico. An UNESCO world heritage area, because of the many lava stone walls surrounding the vines. The black volcanic stones have a dual purpose, protecting against the wind and the black rocks retain the warmth of the sun. Near the end is a windmill you can climb, giving a good view of all the small enclosures.
It is a linear trail, so it is a bit of problem to get back to your starting point. After the trail I continued walking for about 1 kilometre until I reached Madalena, had lunch and took a taxi back to my car.
Worth the walk !
It is a linear trail, so it is a bit of problem to get back to your starting point. After the trail I continued walking for about 1 kilometre until I reached Madalena, had lunch and took a taxi back to my car.
Worth the walk !
Written 26 August 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
loupar1
Toronto, Canada99 contributions
May 2016 • Solo
A very good way to see the coast and vineyards with lava-rock enclosures up close. The walk is easy but mostly on the coastal road, except for the walk through the vineyards. It is accessible even without a car.
From Madalena, you can catch the south ("Sul") bus (Madalena-Lajes-Ribeirinha) across from the Ferry terminal (10:00 AM daily except Sundays/Holidays at 9:30 AM – check the latest bus schedule). Tell the driver you want to go to Porto do Calhau and he’ll tell you to get off at Monte. It takes about 10 minutes. The Monte bus stop is a few steps from the junction of the side road to Porto do Calhau. Walk along that road for about 1 km and you will see the trail information board at Porto do Calhau. Then just follow the trail map.
This trail is exposed so it can be very hot especially when you get to the vineyards. The breeze from the coast helps but when you are walking between 4 to 5-ft high lava-walls you’ll really feel the heat because they absorb and radiate a lot of heat. Bring lots of water.
In the map where this trail ends, just continue walking along the coastal road – in about 1.5 km you will reach Madalena. Along the way you will see the Ilheus da Madalena (one horizontal and one standing up) by the coast, then as the road leaves the coast, you will pass a restaurant on the left then another restaurant further on the right before reaching Madalena.
The walk took me about 2.5 hours, with lots of stops for photos.
From Madalena, you can catch the south ("Sul") bus (Madalena-Lajes-Ribeirinha) across from the Ferry terminal (10:00 AM daily except Sundays/Holidays at 9:30 AM – check the latest bus schedule). Tell the driver you want to go to Porto do Calhau and he’ll tell you to get off at Monte. It takes about 10 minutes. The Monte bus stop is a few steps from the junction of the side road to Porto do Calhau. Walk along that road for about 1 km and you will see the trail information board at Porto do Calhau. Then just follow the trail map.
This trail is exposed so it can be very hot especially when you get to the vineyards. The breeze from the coast helps but when you are walking between 4 to 5-ft high lava-walls you’ll really feel the heat because they absorb and radiate a lot of heat. Bring lots of water.
In the map where this trail ends, just continue walking along the coastal road – in about 1.5 km you will reach Madalena. Along the way you will see the Ilheus da Madalena (one horizontal and one standing up) by the coast, then as the road leaves the coast, you will pass a restaurant on the left then another restaurant further on the right before reaching Madalena.
The walk took me about 2.5 hours, with lots of stops for photos.
Written 28 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
German F
Milan, Italy237 contributions
Jun 2017 • Friends
Beautiful trai along the coast to get there from Madalena.
This area is an Unesco World Heritage: Surreal vinewards enclosed in volcanic lava stone walls with a beautiful red windmill in the center. When you get up the windmill you'll have a stunning view of the vineyards. A sweet old woman sells souvenirs inside.
This area is an Unesco World Heritage: Surreal vinewards enclosed in volcanic lava stone walls with a beautiful red windmill in the center. When you get up the windmill you'll have a stunning view of the vineyards. A sweet old woman sells souvenirs inside.
Written 29 June 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CruisersRus
Mount Albert795 contributions
Apr 2016 • Couples
Designated a World Heritage site in 2004, Vinhas Criacao Velha trail is a look into the culture and practices of people who have lived here for hundreds of years. They have adapted to a challenging landscape and have made a success of developing and maintaining Pico's vineyards. Their efforts are truly commendable. The trail actually begins well down the road at Porto do Calhau but we choose to start and end with the circular tour of the vineyards. This is a must see. The sedate countryside, the unending lava stone 'fences', the gorgeous windmill, the floral artistry of numerous plants, a seaside stop and the local residences are all on display during this relatively short walk. For such a short trail, this was one of our favourites!
Written 25 April 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ana L
Navan, Ireland2,683 contributions
Jun 2018 • Couples
One of the most unique things I have seen. No wonder why it is UNESCO. Try to go early in the morning and explore this area without crowds.
Written 9 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
charmjunio
North Vancouver, Canada38 contributions
Jun 2016 • Couples
Fascinating history of how the vineyards came to be. Quite amazing how the grapes grow on the basalt rocks.
Written 10 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
drchrysc
São Miguel, Portugal556 contributions
Oct 2018 • Business
travelled through the narrow lanes between the vineyards and enjoyed the mill, nice photo op with Fayal facing us and the Pico mountain watching us
Written 12 October 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emiliaribeiro
Pico, Portugal9 contributions
May 2016 • Solo
Nice views and a very good way to see the coast and the vineyard of Criação Velha and don't miss the windmill, a must see.
Written 29 April 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Can you take a taxi from Madalena to Port of Calhau instead of the bus?
Written 20 August 2018
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