From Olhão : Private Full-Day Hike in Serra de Monchique with a local guide

The trail starts in Fóia, the highest point of Algarve at 902 m, and crosses the typical landscape of Monchique Mountain. Is a Syenite Granite massif. This lush landscape of rolling hills, leafy woods and flowing streams is aptly referred to as the garden of Algarve.

Wonderful views and a variety of habitats that support a great biodiversity, fill this mountainous place with an extraordinary beauty.

Visiting the Monchique mountains is visiting a mountainous area with a great diversity of plants and a mild climate, affectionately known as the “Garden of the Algarve”. Natural heritage that induces contemplation. Crystal clear streams that meander at the bottom of steep valleys. Endowed with high environmental quality, the freshness of the mountains presents itself as a counterpoint to the warm Algarve coastline and Baixo Alentejo.

In the center of the town you can enjoy a magnificent view from the São Sebastião park viewpoint, visit the Matriz de Monchique church dating from the beginning of the 16th century, the Convent of Nossa Senhora do Desterro and take the opportunity to walk through the narrow streets of the town, contemplating the vast white houses with the typical skirted chimneys and stop to visit our crafts houses. It is also worth climbing the mountains to Picota or to the highest point in the Algarve, Fóia, from where you can see a large expanse of landscape from Cabo de São Vicente to Serra da Arrábida. Also worth a visit is Moinho do Littlechinho, in Barranco dos Pisões, where you can have a pleasant picnic on its stone tables and in the shade of one of the many classified trees in the Monchique mountains – a Plátano.

Don’t forget to stop by Caldas de Monchique where there is a small square surrounded by large trees and fountains, a space suitable for picnics and also discover the Thermal Baths and their mineral-medicinal water springs, used since ancient times for treatments.

Strolling through the towns of Alferce, Marmelete and Vila de Monchique, enjoying the architectural, historical and cultural heritage along with the many natural beauties and tasting traditional cuisine, honey, sweets and medronho, is our suggestion.

In a group, a maximum of 8 people can go in the van, the price will always be for a private group .

This activity is suitable for visitors staying in Olhão / Faro area. Visitors staying outside of this area, an alternative meeting point will be arranged.

Timing recommendation : All year round