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Vinice Criação Velha
Traditional wine-growing on the lava fields has a long and distinguished history on the island of Pico. The largest areas, with plenty of walking trails, can be found on the western tip of the island, around the town of Criação Velha.
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Walking through the vineyards and along the coast
Vineyards bordered by tens of kilometres of lava-stone walls stretch across a vast area between the village centre and the coast.
The vineyards are dominated by the magnificent red windmill of Moínho dos Frades. From the windmill’s terrace, which you can climb to free of charge via the stairs, you can enjoy beautiful views.
The signposted PR05PIC walking trail winds its way through the vineyards, leading directly across the vineyards and along the Atlantic Ocean.
The Criação Velha vineyards are the ideal place for easy walks on mostly flat, comfortable paths that even completely untrained walkers can manage.
How to get there
The walking trail starts on the southern outskirts of Madelena and ends on the coast at Calhau harbour, some 6 km further on.
You can park your car at either end of the route or in the centre of the village of Criação Velha, near the windmill, anywhere along the street.
The Criação Velha vineyards are one of the few places you can reach by bus route 2, which stops on the main road in the centre of the village (about 300 metres from the vineyards).
Bus route 2 runs along the Madalena – Criação Velha – Monte – São Mateus – São João – Lajes route three times a day; twice a day it continues via Piedade to the town of Ribeirinha.
Accommodation in Criação Velha
Experience accommodation in traditional lava-stone houses right next to the vineyards, yet with modern interiors.
Criação Velha is the ideal place for peaceful accommodation, with all necessary amenities close by in Madalena, the largest town, just 5 minutes away.
We would recommend staying in these stylish apartments, for example:
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Pico.
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