Destination Weddings on Pico

Pico is the island furthest south in the central group of the Azores Islands. It is located east of Faial and southwest of Sao Jorge, and is separated by the 18km-wide Canal de Sao Jorge. This island is 42 kilometres long and 15 kilometres wide with a population of about 15,500. Pico derives its name from the high volcanic cone that exists on the island. The volcanic soil that has recently formed has stunted the agriculture on the island, so the residents have to import much of their food from the neighboring islands. The only areas of cultivation are the vineyards, which have been painstakingly built on the slopes of the Pico Alto. The whaling industry, which was bustling at one point, died out in 1985.

Pico is dominated by the Pico Mountain, which stands 2.351 meters above sea level. Visitors enjoy climbing this challenging peak, but a guide is always recommended as accompaniment. Once at the peak the view is breathtaking. A trip around the island will reveal the peculiar molehills made of lava, which local inhabitants have used to construct homes and walls in order to protect their fields.

The Museu dos Baleeiros at Lajes do Pico is devoted to the education of the history of whale hunting, and exhibits of the boats and equipment are well documented. Visitors can enroll in a three-hour "whale watching" trip where they are taken in groups by boat to view the now free whale life in its natural habitat. The whale processing factory, Fabrica da Baleia at São Roque do Pico, although now inoperable, also spotlights the sport of whale-hunting.

The island of Pico is an unusual and destination for a destination wedding, and can set the tone for a unique and original celebration of marriage.