Pico Castelo

At 437 metres high, the steep-sided, volcano-shaped Pico do Castelo provides a tough climb for walkers, though you can also drive almost to the top. The mountain gets its name as this was the spot that islanders retreated to during pirate raids in centuries gone by – though there never was a real castle here. Instead the slopes are covered with conifers, and there’s a panorama terrace and picnic spot.