Monchique and Caldas de Monchique
Monchique, with a few exceptions, saw little change by the 20th Century invasion of tourism.
Although only 20 minutes drive inland from the coast, Monchique is a world apart. As you leave the coast behind and begin to climb upwards every curve in the road brings an agreeable surprise.
The Serra de Monchique is still the old Algarve, touched but not overtaken as elsewhere by modernity, tourism and spreading development.
The town has retained its rustic atmosphere with steep cobbled streets and small dark doorways housing various artisan trades.
The surrounding area flourishes on the production of cattle, cork and wood.
Monchique may be the last bastion in the Algarve of mule carts and moonshine aguardente, the popular "medronho", which is the name of a strong schnapps style of drink made from distilling the fruit from arbutus bushes.
Between Monchique and the town of Portimão is the village of Caldas de Monchique that was developed in Roman times as a Spa. Today it comprises restored historic buildings nestled in the hills, hotels and a moderm facilities spa.
Foia – highest summit in the Algarve - and its sister mountain of Picota are excellent locations from which to see dramatic views of the coastal plain to the south and to the western Atlantic coast.
For those searching beaches, golf courses, nightlife on the doorstep, this is not a first choice location.
The Serra de Monchique is for the self-contained visitor content to experience typical local shops, local crafts, restaurants and small and intimate hotels.
Monchique hotels and resorts
"Perfect for a romantic weekend!..."
"... almost nothing to offer for culture or going out..."
"The pace of life is slower in the Monchique hills..."
"...love Monchique best of all because it is unspoilt..."
The Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa & Resort is located in the hills outside Monchique Old Town surrounded by the green Monchique Hills, is spread over five restored historic buildings.
The guestrooms at Villa Termal das Caldas Spa & Resort are individually decorated and antique-style furniture and wooden floors.
The only resort in the Algarve to use thermal water for spa treatments, this accommodation presents you with the chance to be totally pampered and thoroughly reinvigorated. Besides relaxing, get involved with open air activities like walking and mountain biking in the beautiful surrounding area. Choose from a multitude of wellness programmes and therapies, or simply plunge into the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy a drink in the wine bar or catch a few rays beside the pool complete with a sun terrace..
The spa centre offers a fitness room, an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, Vichy shower, and steam room. Treatments including mud applications, aromatherapy, massage, and Reiki are available.
Restaurant 1692 and O Terraço both offer Portuguese menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and open onto terraces for al fresco dining. The wine bar serves snacks and desserts by an open fire. A poolside bar offers drinks and snacks.
Away from the coastal holiday resorts, this thermal spa resort is a haven for rest and relaxation.
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