Castle & Mountain

From the red castle to the roof of the Algarve.

From the red stone castle to the highest point in the Algarve, on a day that swaps the beach for the hills. Morning is in Silves; then the road climbs through cork oaks to the old spa, Fóia and the town of Monchique. It works well on cloudy days. For families, and anyone who has had enough beach.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Castelo de Silves

   Silves was one of the Algarve's leading cities under Moorish rule, and its reddish stone castle still towers over the town. You can walk the ramparts with views across the rooftops, the Arade river and the orange groves around. The cathedral sits just below and is worth a look. Castle admission is paid separately. The streets climb steeply, so wear comfortable shoes, and try local oranges or an almond sweet in town.

2. 

   2

   Caldas de Monchique

   Tucked into the hills among chestnut, cork oak and eucalyptus trees, this small spa village revolves around its long-known waters. There is a quiet square with a café terrace, restored old buildings and a fountain where you can taste the water. The air is cooler than on the coast, which is welcome on hot days. Take a short stroll through the woods by the stream and, if you fancy it, try a honeyed medronho liqueur.

3. 

   3

   Fóia

   At 902 metres, Fóia is the highest point in the Algarve. A road takes you right to the top, where there are antennas, a viewpoint and a wide view over the hills to the coast, from Portimão to Lagos, and out to sea on clear days. The scene changes with the weather, and sometimes clouds drift past at eye level. It is always colder and windier up here than at the beach, so bring a jacket and pick a clear day.

4. 

   4

   Monchique

   Monchique spreads across the hillside with steep lanes, whitewashed houses and air noticeably cooler than on the coast. It is known for medronho spirit, cured sausages and ham, honey and wooden crafts, including its well-known folding chairs. Walk slowly up to the ruined convent above the town for a view from the top. Sample the medronho with care, and wear comfortable shoes, as almost everything is either uphill or downhill.

The essentials

Duration

6–7 h · Full day; good on cloudy days

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Families; anyone who has had enough beach.

The route