Overview
Monchique is one of the most beautiful parts of the Algarve and one of the most unique because its surrounding mountainous areas offer a contrast to the coastal areas and beaches that people expect from the Algarve.How to get there
Monchique is 20 minutes inland from Portimao (and Lagos).Attractions
Monchique is a breathtaking rural town, nestled between the hills of Foia and Picota, 20 minutes inland from Portimao on Portugal's Algarve Coast. A green oasis of lush gardens, flowers and butterflies the old craggy rural town sits amongst steep cobbled streets in the Serra De Monchique mountain range, commanding a majestic view of the Western Algarve below. The town of Monchique lies between the two highest hills in the region, Foia and Picota, the former being the highest point in the Algarve, at 902 metres above sea level.So why visit Monchique ? Well, it's beautiful, which isn't a bad start, you must admit and the 10,000 inhabitants of this town have retained its rustic atmosphere with steep cobbled streets and small dark doorways housing various artisan trades. And on the way, the road passes through swathes of cork, pine and eucalyptus trees, and rivers gurgle between rocks, with the slopes cut into terraces, planted with fruit trees and vegetable plots.which account for the region's air of peaceful seclusion. There is a very neglected 17th Century Franciscan monastery which overlooks the town from which a visitor enjoys a panoramic view over the beautiful countryside.
A place you must visit is Caldas de Monchique, developed in Roman times as a Spa where you can try the curing elements of the sulphur smelling hot spring water that emerges at a constant temperature of 32ÂșC. There are two further hot spring sites one of which is to the south of Picota hidden in a valley. Its name is Fonte Santa and it is rumoured to have special healing properties. A pretty square shaded by trees and flanked by attractive buildings dating from the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries epitomises the towns calm and relaxing atmosphere.
There are speciality local foods on sale, too. Whether you fancy some cured ham or pork, or to sample some of the local 'tipple', Medronho (distilled from the fruit of arbutus bushes - and very potent), there'll be a stall keen to sell you some.