Volcanic Secrets: Private Pico Wine & Gastronomy Inside a Lava Cave

Pico Island, in the Azores, is entirely volcanic, shaped by eruptions that built layers of solidified lava and created its striking landscape and central volcano. When lava cooled, the exterior hardened while the inside stayed liquid. As it drained, it left natural tunnels—that’s how Pico’s volcanic caves formed. This same volcanic soil creates a unique terroir, defining Pico’s wines, its cuisine and even local culture.

One cage – Gruta das Torres – is open to public to visitors with a ticket, allowing limited-time exploration inside a real lava tube. But, have you ever imagine enjoying a wine tasting with an exclusive Chef menu inside a private volcanic cave?

This is the moment we’d love to invite you in, to step deeper into Pico’s most secret place!

After a short walk through the ocean-side vineyards at the foothills of the majestic Pico Mountain — in the breathtaking Pico Wine Landscape (UNESCO World Heritage since 2004) — we’ll take you to a charming, exquisite boutique hotel, from where we’ll access our secret volcanic cave.

Top view of a person walking down a red spiral staircase.This hotel is run by a small, independent wine producer, truly committed to the land and its traditions — the perfect host for what comes next.

As you step into the cave, the air becomes cooler, quieter… and you’ll instantly notice the layers of ancient lava on the walls, a time capsule that confirms the volcanic stories you’ve just learned. Then, at a table illuminated by soft candlelight, our exclusive gastronomic and wine journey begins. Here, flavors merge with place — letting you taste, smell and feel the volcanic soul of Pico more intensely than anywhere else.

Chef Natacha has created a unique menu to pair perfectly with the producer’s wines, highlighting authentic local ingredients and the island’s character. Across eight unforgettable courses, we’ll guide you through native grape varieties, traditional methods and aging techniques, while tasting Azorean recipes — and a few special touches inspired by mainland Portugal. Portuguese cuisine and its influences take center stage, in a beautiful conversation with the wines that will be poured just for you.

Plate of sliced fish with citrus and herbs in sauce, hands holding the dish.

The handcrafted wines you’ll taste are crafted from local grape varieties, grown in the island’s volcanic stone vineyards. Some age in natural lava “bags” formed centuries ago, allowing the wine to rest inside the earth itself. Every bottle reflects the resilience and creativity required to make wine in one of Europe’s most challenging and captivating territories.

An intimate moment. A secret place. A volcanic experience you will never forget.

• A 7 course menu that invites you on a journey through Portugal, with stops from north to south and a plunge into the islands.
• Up to 5 Wine tastings from a small local independent producer; exclusive bottles and handcrafted wines: to the three white wines made from Pico’s traditional grape varieties