Algarve Interior
The Algarve mountains represent the border with the Alentejo and already bring very different landscapes and experiences that are still a genuine and honest Algarve. We don’t need to climb up too much to find views that the common summer is never lurking.
On the slopes and gentle valleys of the Serra de Espinhaço de Cão inhabits small hunting, such as partridge, pigeon and rabbit. They also take advantage of the wealth that brings the Odiáxere river that stops here by force of a dam. Also known as Bravura, you reach the reservoir by the road that comes from the village of Odiáxere, through the cultivated fields. Water sports, walks and relaxed, in one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the region.
At the Miradouro da Fóia at the top of the Monchique mountain range, the view is breathtaking. The magnificent panorama that awaits us after a short section at Nacional 266, reaches the Alentejo coast and is no less than amazing. It is the highest viewpoint in the region, with 900 meters, and is the privileged place to enjoy Monchique. From above, the lush vegetation of the mountain loses relief and the view gains space, and we can see a series of birds in their rituals over the woods below.
Caldas de Monchique is the only thermal resort in the south of the country and has available a variety of equipment for various treatments. The Romans considered these waters sacred and built facilities whose archaeological remains arise everywhere.
The second highest point of Monchique is in Picota, at 750 meters. Although steeper than the Aim viewpoint, it can be accessed by road, with a short walk at the end. The watchtower and the geodesic landmark indicate our fate. The wavy valleys, painted of bright colors and white of the Algarve house take care of setting the scenery.
After leaving the national road 266-2, the lush vegetation of the mountain is cut by the Cascade of Barbelote. We can reach from the Road of Vale de Largo-Barbelote or through a pedestrian access. The cascade of Penedo do Buraco can be found on the road between Casais and Marmelete and from there, heading to Chilrão, we find a third waterfall. Either one of them helps explain the name of “Serra das Águas” by which the region is also known.