Pico is the most southerly of the central group of the Azores. This mountainous and rugged island is the home to the highest mountain in Portugal reaching a height of 2351 metres at Pico Alto, a still active volcano. The peak dominates the scenery of volcanic soil interrupted only by the characteristic vineyards planted on lava covered ground. The three towns on the islands are Madalena, Lajes do Pico and Sao Roque.