The Piscina Natural do Cais Mourato is a prominent landmark in the landscape of Cais do Mourato: black basalt rock forms the natural swimming pool, and from there the view stretches across the vast ocean to the neighboring island of Faial. At the same time, the coastal settlement can be understood through its built heritage and named routes. For travelers weighing nature, cultural heritage and coastal connections, Cais do Mourato offers several concrete points to consider when choosing a destination.
Coast, protected areas and water quality
The Piscina Natural do Cais Mourato lies within the protected landscape “Paisagem Protegida da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico.” Cais do Mourato is also one of the coastal built settlements in the “Cultura da Vinha - Zona Norte” protected area. These designations refer to different features: one identifies the landscape surrounding the swimming pool, while the other classifies Cais do Mourato as a built coastal settlement. In addition, the Cais do Mourato–Cachorro lava field is of scientific and landscape interest. The protected landscape, the settlement and the lava field therefore represent distinct aspects of the area.
In 2025, the Cais do Mourato bathing area received the “Zero Poluição” award for excellent water quality. The recognition was based on the preceding three-year assessment period and should therefore be understood in that timeframe. If swimming is part of your plans, check the latest water-quality notices in advance; this will help you distinguish the dated award from conditions on the day of your visit.
Cultural heritage in the coastal settlement
At the center of the coastal settlement of Cais do Mourato is a 20th-century chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Desterro. Cais do Mourato’s built heritage in Bandeiras includes wine cellars, distillation equipment, houses and tidal wells. When considering the area’s cultural heritage, it is helpful to distinguish between the centrally located chapel and the broader built inventory: the chapel is specifically identified by its dedication, while the other listed features cover different parts of the heritage.
Coastal connections and route choices
The Caminho da Costa connects Cais do Mourato with the coastal settlements of Cachorro and Formosinha. The PICO GRANFONDO route passes through Cais do Mourato and continues east along the coast. These two details help with different orientation questions: the Caminho da Costa identifies connected places, while PICO GRANFONDO marks the eastward route along the sea. When choosing a route, consider whether the connection to Cachorro and Formosinha or the eastbound coastal direction matters more for your plans. Historically, access to the coastal settlement of Cais do Mourato was available from the Caminho do Poço Velho; this earlier access route is distinct from the route connections mentioned above. Check current trail conditions before making specific plans.
Discover more destinations: Cabeco Chao, São Roque Do Pico, Santa Luzia, Terra Alta, Sao Joao, Prainha, Lajido do Meio, Santo Amaro
For the broader travel overview: Pico.
