Discover and Fall in Love with Monchique Algarve Portugal
Monchique also known as the "Garden of the Algarve" or the "Algarve's Best Kept Secret". Seriously beautiful landscapes intertwined with rustic villages and secrets around every corner make this mountainous region a vacationers dream. Come and explore this unique oasis.
Still the Old Algarve
The Serra de Monchique is still the old Algarve, touched but not overtaken as elsewhere by modernity, tourism and spreading development. Its robust old-fashionedness is the very thing that draws discerning holiday makers.
It is the peace and quiet, the pervasiveness of the evergreen environment, the airy spaciousness, the friendliness of the people, the social simplicity and the slow pace of life, that is so appealing. Even the climate is milder and more equable than down by the coast, frost in low lying areas, particularly coastal areas make for some slippery early mornings, not so in the Serra de Monchique, winters are frost free save for a few areas in the valleys well to the north.
Monchique is Small and Unpretentious
The Serra de Monchique is a fairly broad range of steep, wooded hills and valleys stretching from Sao Marcos de Serra to Aljezur across north of the Algarve and into the southern Alentejo. The town of Monchique is small and unpretentious, a hillside cascade of white houses around a central church. The villages east and west are few and insignificant, the hamlets many and hardly noticeable. Large parts of the Serra are almost uninhabited. The highest summits are not that high, with Foia peaking at 902 metres and Picota at 773 both accessible by foot or by car so that you can take in those magnificent views.
Narrow Cobbled Streets
There's a good view of the area from the ruins of a 17th century Franciscan convent. Observe the beautifully laid out gardens dotted with sculptures in the valley. Note also the terracing on the hillsides, a farming method used since Roman times to grow vegetables, oranges, lemons, figs and olives, as well as cork oak trees. There are also many peaceful tracks for walkers in the surrounding countryside, affording wonderful panoramic views down to the coast. Organised walks to Foia and Picota start at the tourist information office above the under-ground car park, other activities include downhill biking, quad biking and jeep safaris.
Caldas de Monchique
The pace of life is slower in the Monchique hills, and the climate more friendly. The EN266 road up to the town of Monchique follows tight bends through tall trees, most of them mimosas, which in early spring are smothered in yellow blossom. Part way up to Monchique, the spa village of Caldas de Monchique nestles in a deep wooded valley. People have been coming here since Roman times to drink or bathe in the local natural spring water. The entire village was renovated a few years ago and it is well worth a break for a stroll in the peaceful woods (where nightingales sing in early summer) and to sample the spring water.
Piri-Piri is Monchique's Signature Dish
The Monchique area is a handicrafts centre; artisans can be seen producing knitwear, cane work, pottery, tiles and sculptures, for example, all on sale at reasonable prices. Several cobblers still make shoes by hand, and such diverse homemade products as honey and soap are available locally.
Take a drive up to Foia for the best views of all. Like the EN266, this road is dotted with typical chicken piri-piri restaurants for which the area is famous. Although piri-piri is Monchique´s signature dish, there are also many restaurants specializing in other local delicacies including kid, game and wild boar. Choose a clear day to make the most of the panoramic views. Your Foia visit may well be one of the lasting memories of your holiday.
Come and Stay to Explore what the Algarve and Portugal have to Offer
Villa Vida Nova Villa Rental
For aficionados of the Algarve, Villa Vida Nova Algarve stands as an unrivalled haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Immerse yourself in the splendour of coastal vistas while indulging in the gastronomic treasures this region is renowned for. Perfect your BBQ prowess and savour al fresco dining beside our infinity pool, or seize the opportunity to partake in exclusive discounts generously offered by our esteemed local eateries.
Sightseeing in Algarve
Our exquisite detached villas offer the ultimate retreat, each accommodating up to 6 guests in three private suites. With lavish amenities including Infinity Pool and Solar Heated Pool, BBQ areas, free WiFi, and air conditioning, your stay promises unparalleled relaxation and enjoyment.
And for our North American visitors, consider extending your European journey with a two-centre stay, detailed on our websites.
Silver Coast Villa rental
The Silver Coast beckons, nestled in a picturesque locale just an hour from Lisbon and a mere 600 meters from the cliff tops and the esteemed Blue Flag Salgado beach. Immerse yourself in stunning panoramas and savour culinary delights at local eateries. Don't miss the chance to explore our captivating photo gallery, capturing the essence of our enchanting surroundings. The Silver Coast epitomizes tranquillity and adventure, boasting balmy weather extending well into November.