Madalena: Travel and tourism

The tranquil port-town of Madalena faces the island of Faial and its capital, Horta, at a distance of about seven kilometres and is located on the western tip of the island of Pico (peak), named after the highest mountain of Portugal, rising 2350 metres above the Atlantic.

The county is one of the best sites to admire the grid of small vineyards divided by walls of black lava stones, creating an unusual patchwork which was declared a World Heritage site by the UNESCO in 2004.

The vines produce Pico's famous verdelho wine, whose traditions and production are explained to visitors at the Wine Museum.

At the town of Madalena, it is also worth admiring the 18th-century Mother Church and several chapels, besides two strange rocks on the entrance to the harbour, named «Standing» and «Lying Down», chosen by colonies of birds to build their nests.

The county's main asset is the wonderful natural scenery which results from volcanic eruptions over the centuries, covering the landscape with lava until the great cliffs ending abruptly above the ocean.

Most tourists come here to explore the spectacular scenery and enjoy all kinds of open-air activities, from excursions by boat, whale-watching and deep-sea diving to swimming in natural pools formed by volcanic rocks, climbing the mountain or unforgettable walks and hiking.

The traditional handicrafts of Madalena include carved teeth and bones of whales, wood miniatures and typical lace.

At table, local specialities offer octopus stew with wine, limpet rice, sausages with yam and fresh shellfish.