The town of Monchique offers beautiful scenery, historical richness, and an abundance of spectacular walking trails. Experience the majestic Serra de Monchique mountain range, and indulge in a thermal spa after a long day of walking.
- Appreciate the beautiful landscapes of Fonte Benemola
- Hike across the Serra de Monchique mountain range
- View magnificent vistas from Ponte de Piedade
- Enjoy traditional Atlantic seafood dishes
Monchique is a wonderful destination for a walking holiday, blending breathtaking views of untouched countryside with charming rural villages and iconic architecture. The panoramic landscapes of sea and mountains make this location truly special.
This 7-day trip begins in Querença, and eventually ends up in the beautiful Lagos, with each day’s hike lasting approximately four to five hours. Despite walking every day, there's still ample opportunity to visit historical landmarks, enjoy springs and waterfalls, and indulge in traditional Atlantic cuisine.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival to Querença
Explore this picturesque town and relax ahead of tomorrow’s walk.
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Day 2: Hike from Querença to Salir
Traverse undulating hills lined with charming vineyards and orchards, and admire lush corridors of trees as you make your way towards Salir. After passing through beautiful villages and crossing several peaceful streams, end the day wandering Salir’s quaint narrow streets.
Walking distance: 16 km | Ascent: 300 m
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Day 3: Hike from Salir to Alte
Traverse a variety of landscapes on today’s hike, including cork oak forests, rivers and olive groves. Upon arrival in Alte, find the iconic Fonte Pequena fountain, and bask in the clear-blue waters of the Alte Loule River Beach.
Walking distance: 18 km | Ascent: 300 m
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Day 4: Climb to Monchique
Today you make your way to the stunning Monchique, sitting at a higher altitude, offering breathtaking vistas. The gradual climb up to this town is truly worth it, and you can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the landscape en route.
Walking distance: 13 km | Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 400 m
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Day 5: Monchique Loop to Foia
Today’s hike is slightly shorter, however, you climb to the tallest peak in the Algarve, Foia. On reaching the summit, marvel at the miraculous views across the countryside, and then descend back down the mountain.
Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 500 m
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Day 6: Coastal path from Praia da Luz to Lagos
After a short transfer to Praia da Luz, walk along the stunning coastline pathway, which ends up in Lagos. Learn about fishing traditions of local villages, and admire the phenomenal effects of coastal erosion on arrival at Ponta da Piedade.
Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 200 m | Descent: 200 m
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Day 7: Transfer home
Say goodbye to this wonderful area of the world and transfer to the airport for your fight home.
Please note: This self-guided trip requires a good level of fitness due to the prolonged ascents of the trails and hours spent walking each day, however a consistent hillwalker should have no problem.
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 7 days from £829 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 7 days from £1,069 per person
- Single room supplement: From £240
- Walking grade: Easy to Moderate
- Guiding: Self-Guided
- Max alt: 1,200m
- Min people: 2
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map 
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What’s included
- Hotel x 5 nights, guesthouse x 2 nights
- 8 breakfasts
Next Steps
| Year | Daily Departures† | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| All prices are per person. † Daily departures subject to availability. | |||
| 2026 | From 14 Apr to 26 Apr | £1,049 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 27 Apr to 26 May | £989 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 27 May to 26 Jun | £969 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 1 Sep to 15 Oct | £989 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 16 Oct to 26 Nov | £869 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 27 Nov to 15 Dec | £829 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 14 Apr to 26 Apr | £1,119 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 27 Apr to 26 May | £1,039 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 27 May to 26 Jun | £1,019 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 1 Sep to 15 Oct | £1,039 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 16 Oct to 26 Nov | £919 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 27 Nov to 15 Dec | £879 | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.
