Cabeco Chao can be explored through several specific travel interests: the Ermida de São Caetano, the winemaking tradition of Bandeiras, a diving experience in a cistern built in 1853, and a road cycling route that passes through the village. These themes give you starting points for choosing a destination and suitable accommodation. The key question is whether you are mainly interested in culture and agriculture, a unique experience on the water, or a cycling tour.
Chapel and winemaking in Bandeiras
The Ermida de São Caetano is located in Cabeco Chao, in the Bandeiras area. The chapel dates back to the 17th century and provides a specific cultural and historical point of interest for a stay. Traditional winemaking also remains one of the main activities of the residents of Bandeiras. Places in this area include Cachorro, Cais Maroto and Cabeco Chao. Two different perspectives come together here: the history of a chapel and an agricultural tradition that is still part of community life today.
The history of the vineyards also spans more than a single generation. Raízes do Pico has cultivated its vineyards for more than a century, across several generations; its address is in Cabeco Chao. On Pico Island, grapevines often grow behind walls made of basalt stone. These walls create a microclimate that benefits the ripening of the grapes. This is a feature of winemaking across the island and useful background if you are interested in Pico’s agricultural and cultural heritage.
Unique experiences at Quinta União
Pico Tank – Mergulho is a bookable diving experience in a rustic cistern at Quinta União. The cistern was built in 1853. This means the experience includes a clearly dated architectural feature: the diving location is also a historic structure. Diving is the focus when planning this experience, with an unusual cistern as the setting rather than an ordinary backdrop.
The “Templum de Água Doce” offers a different focus. It was created in June 2024 as a relaxing and therapeutic experience at Quinta União, on Rua de Baixo in Cabeco Chao, and is offered as a bookable experience. The two options therefore differ in their focus: Pico Tank – Mergulho combines diving with a rustic cistern, while the Templum de Água Doce focuses on relaxation and therapy.
Cycling route and bus connection
There is also a direct connection to the village for cyclists: the Pico Granfondo road cycling route passes through Cabeco Chao. The Pico bus network also lists the “Cabeço do Chão - Ermida” stop. These are two distinct transport options to consider when planning your trip: a road cycling route and a named stop on the bus network. Check the stop’s service details before travelling.
When choosing accommodation, it can be helpful to first decide what you want to focus on: the chapel and winemaking in the Bandeiras area, one of the experiences at Quinta União, or the Pico Granfondo cycling route. This makes it possible to assess Cabeco Chao based on specific interests without having to plan a fixed itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Calhau, São Mateus, Prainha De Cima, Lajes Do Pico, Lajido do Meio, Arcos, Ribeiras, Madalena.
For the main travel overview: Pico.
