| MONCHIQUE |
The pretty market town of Monchique is well-known for its handicrafts,
most notably the folding wooden stools originally derived from
a Roman design, and its bustling livestock fair held on the
third Friday of every month.
Situated 458 metres (1,500 feet) above sea-level, it offers
fresh mountain air and spectacular views of the coastal plain
in the distance.
What to see. Located on the cobbled Rua da
Igreja behind the town’s main square, the 16th century
parish church features an elaborate Manueline doorway with carved
columns resembling nautical ropes and knots. Well sited above
the town are the ruins of the Franciscan monastery of Nossa
Senhora do Destêrro, founded in 1632 by Dom Pero da Silva,
later Viceroy of India.
Nearby. A short drive south of Monchique, and
18 km (11 miles) north of Portimão, the hot springs of
Caldas de Monchique have been popular since Roman times for
the treatment of rheumatism, dyspepsia and skin disease. Set
in peaceful surroundings, this leafy spa resort was recently
upgraded with new hotels and improved facilities.
The wooded slopes of the 773-metre-high Serra de Monchique are
a profusion of colour during spring and summer, with mimosa
and camellias in wild abundance. Visitors to Fóia, the
highest point, are promised breathtaking views of the sea and
vast Alentejo plains in the distance. |
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| © 2007 Maisturismo |
