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PR05PIC

Vinhas da Criação Velha

Pico

Open

Acores9 currently marks this trail as open.

Status checked 25 July 2026

Type
Walking trail
Route
Point to point
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
7 km
Duration
2 h
Elevation
2–59 m

The trail

Vinhas da Criação Velha is a coastal crossing through Pico's World Heritage vineyard landscape. It links Porto do Calhau in Candelária with Areia Larga and runs almost entirely among lava slabs, black walls and working vines. A tidal well appears immediately near the start, showing how brackish water was obtained for household and vineyard use in a territory with little surface water.

The route passes Porto do Pocinho, with another tidal well and a picnic area, then rounds higher ground that opens a view across the vineyard plots and the Madalena islets. Returning to the shore, it crosses the Laja das Rosas bathing area and enters one of Pico's most recognisable vine-growing landscapes. Ox-cart ruts remain visible in the slabs; nearby stand Moinho do Frade and a rola-pipas, a ramp cut toward the sea so wine barrels could be moved to boats.

The last section keeps close to the ocean, passing Solar dos Limas and Solar dos Salemas before finishing at Porto da Areia Larga. The walk is easy and low-lying, yet its richness comes from close observation: cellars, wells, ramps, lanes and walls demonstrate how agricultural work was designed directly onto volcanic rock.

Directions

Follow the regional road toward Monte in Candelária parish and, near kilometre 97, take the turn signed for Porto do Calhau. Begin beside the tidal well and follow the coast to Porto do Pocinho. Round the higher ground on the right and return toward the sea past Laja das Rosas. Within the vineyard landscape, remain on the markings beside the wheel ruts and Moinho do Frade. On reaching the road, turn right, pass the rola-pipas and continue on the coastal section by Solar dos Limas and Solar dos Salemas. The finish is at Porto da Areia Larga near Ancoradouro; arrange the return to Porto do Calhau.

Safety

The trail is open. Despite its easy grade and modest elevation, lava slabs are uneven and can be slippery, so wear grippy footwear and do not walk on the walls. This is a working agricultural landscape: stay on the route, do not pick fruit or enter vineyard plots. Carry water and protection from sun, rain and wind. Beside the sea, keep back from breaking waves and assess conditions before using any bathing area.

Official coordinates

Start
38.486687, -28.538614
End
38.527252, -28.535953
Elevation profile2–59 m
0 km6.9 km
GPSgpxGoogle Earthkmz
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