Monchique

Where is Monchique?

Monchique is located in the district of Faro, part of the Algarve region, about 40 minutes from Portimão, Lagos, or Carvoeiro.

How is Monchique characterised?

Monchique is a hilly area of mountains and countryside, close to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, yet without the bustle of the large coastal cities. This picturesque and tranquil village, with a population of approximately 2,300, is renowned for its therapeutic thermal waters. In fact, it was the Romans who discovered the healing properties of Monchique's waters. During the Islamic period, the town also gained fame for its honey and medronho production.

Today, Monchique is popular among those seeking a peaceful lifestyle, as well as those looking to enjoy a few days of rest, surrounded by green nature.

How to get to Monchique?

The road to Monchique is truly stunning! To reach Monchique, you need to climb a tree-lined road with panoramic views up to an altitude of 900 metres. However, before you embark on this fairytale-like journey, here are the directions:

• From Porto, take the A1 to Lisbon, then the A2 Lisbon-Algarve.

• From Lisbon, take the A2 (via either Ponte 25 de Abril or Ponte Vasco da Gama), then continue on Via do Infante (A22) and take the Monchique exit, followed by National Road 266.

• From Faro Airport, you can take a transfer or a taxi directly to Monchique or head to Faro, where you can then catch a bus to Monchique.

What to visit in the village of Monchique?

There are several attractions to visit in Monchique, including the historical centre, Largo de São Sebastião, the Mother Church, the urban park, and traditional markets.

• Historical Centre

Unmissable! In the historical centre of the town, you can admire traditional architecture, with low houses featuring white walls and colourful bands on the doors and windows. The narrow streets lead to steep hills that offer stunning views of the surrounding green mountains.

• Largo de São Sebastião

At Largo de São Sebastião, you’ll get a full view of the town, including the church towers, the old convent, the swimming pools, the urban park, and the surrounding area of the historical centre.

• Mother Church

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the 16th-century Manueline-style church, complete with twisted columns ending in pinnacles and decorative elements inspired by the vegetation of the Monchique mountains.

• Urban Park

For those seeking a place to relax and unwind, the Urban Park is ideal. Situated beside a stream, it’s the perfect spot for a stroll or to rest on one of the park benches.

• Traditional Markets

Lastly, be sure to visit the traditional market stores in Monchique, where you can find famous basketry, weaving crafts, and other typical local products that make for great souvenirs.

What beaches are near Monchique?

Monchique is just a short drive away from some of the Algarve's most famous beaches, including Praia da Rocha, Praia do Benagil, and Meia Praia.

• Praia da Rocha, Portimão

Praia da Rocha is one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve, with a long stretch of sand protected by orange and red cliffs. Wooden walkways provide easy access to various points on the beach where you can relax and enjoy the sun.

• Praia do Benagil, Lagoa

Benagil is undoubtedly one of the world’s most enchanting beaches. Situated in front of a fishing village at the bottom of a valley, it’s the starting point for boat trips to caves and secluded beaches.

• Meia Praia, Lagos

At Meia Praia, you can walk along the wide bay of Lagos with your feet in the sand! Besides its extensive sandy beach, you can also enjoy various water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing.

What are the main activities in Monchique?

Monchique offers plenty of activities for nature lovers, including hiking, visiting viewpoints, discovering waterfalls, enjoying spa treatments, and tasting traditional local dishes.

• Hiking

If you love hiking, you’re in for a treat! Monchique offers several trails of varying difficulty levels for exploring the lush forest. Whether on foot or in a jeep, be sure to visit Fóia Peak – the highest point in the Algarve and the best spot for panoramic views of the region.

• Viewpoints

Monchique is full of viewpoints offering breathtaking views, such as São Sebastião viewpoint in the town centre, Fóia viewpoint at the mountain top, and Picota viewpoint at 774 metres above sea level.

• Waterfalls

Don’t miss the three remarkable waterfalls in the Monchique region: Barbelote, Penedo do Buraco, and Chilrão waterfalls. These sites are easily accessible on foot, offering the chance to enjoy unparalleled natural beauty.

• SPA Treatments

If you’re looking to relax, Monchique’s historic SPA in the village of Caldas de Monchique is the place to go. The therapeutic waters, used since Roman times, are renowned for their healing properties. Be sure to enjoy the soothing treatments available at this spa.

• Traditional Gastronomy

No visit to Monchique is complete without sampling the regional cuisine. Try local honey and medronho brandy, as well as cured meats like smoked sausage, pork sausage, blood sausage, and smoked ham. For a true taste of the region, indulge in a traditional dish made with black pork at one of the town’s restaurants.

Monchique: a peaceful haven with the best cost of living

Besides all these attractions, did you know that Monchique is one of the areas with the best cost of living in the Algarve? If you’re thinking about relocating to the south of Portugal, get in touch with us! We offer a wide range of properties in Monchique and other areas of the Algarve, perfect for those looking to live or holiday in peace, away from the crowded tourism that dominates the coastline.