Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Monchique
POP 2800
High above the coast, in cooler mountainous woodlands, the picturesque hamlet of
Monchique makes a lovely base for exploring the surrounding area, with some excellent
options for walking, biking and canoeing. Nearby Caldas de Monchique, an enticing spa
town, is another alluring factor.
Set in the forested Serra de Monchique, the Algarve's mountain range, lying some
24km north of Portimão, Monchique is also known for having the best brews of the fiery
medronho,
a locally made liqueur.
Fires regularly affect this area during the summertime - the last major ones were in
2003 and 2004. These cause widespread damage and ongoing frustration at the lack of
measures to prevent the devastation.
Sights
A series of brown pedestrian signs starting near the bus station directs visitors up into the
town's narrow old streets and major places of interest.
Igreja Matriz
(Rua da Igreja)
The local church has an extraordinary, star-shaped Manueline porch decorated
with twisted columns that look like lengths of knotted rope. Inside you'll find a simple in-
terior, with columns topped with more stony rope, and some fine chapels, including one
whose vault contains beautiful 17th-century glazed tiles showing Sts Francis and Michael
killing the devil.
CHURCH
Nossa Senhora do Desterro
Overlooking the town from a wooded hilltop are the ruins of the 17th-century Franciscan
monastery. It is on the path of the Via Algarviana and you can climb up here (though at
the time of research, crude 'private' signs alluded to someone squatting here).
CONVENT
Tours
All guided activities require advance reservations.
Outdoor Tours
GUIDED TOURS
