A bull stands in a field under the gaze of Mount Pico, Pico Island, Azores
© Atmo-Sphere/Getty Image
A bull, some flowers, and a stratovolcano
It's grape-harvesting time on Pico, a centuries-old tradition that kicks off in early September. Pico is one of nine islands comprising an autonomous region of Portugal called the Azores archipelago. The islands themselves are peaks of vast volcanic mountains that rise high above the Atlantic Ocean. Looming in the background of today's photo is Mount Pico, a stratovolcano partly responsible for the island's flourishing wine industry. The mineral-rich volcanic earth and warm temperate climate call for unique methods for growing grapes. Fields of vines run along the ground, resting on top of black basalt rocks the locals call 'biscoitos' (biscuits). These rock biscuits serve a purpose: During the day, the rocks absorb and give back heat, which in turn helps ripen the grapes. The bull, while picturesque, is merely a bystander enjoying the flowers and the view, and perhaps musing about mysteries of viticulture on a far-flung volcanic island.
Related Images
Hope Valley, Peak District, England
A rider hunts with an eagle in the Altai Mountains of Mongolia
The Skellig Islands, Skellig Michael and Little Skellig, in Ireland
Rio Grande and Sierra del Carmen Mountains in Big Bend National Park, Texas
Paragliding in Maharashtra.
The village of Aguerd Oudad and the larger town of Tafraout in Morocco
Guaita Tower in San Marino
Glastonbury Tor and St Michael's Tower in England for the start of the Glastonbury Festival
Bing Today Images
