Moncarapacho, Algar Seco and Monchique (22.05. - 26.05.19)

In Moncarapacho, we were able to enjoy the luxury of a proper toilet, a shower, a pool, and delicious food thanks to the lovable hospitality. We were spoiled with grilled vegetables with bulgur, stone oven pizza, and homemade ice cream with Portuguese waffles. One afternoon, we went on a mudflat hike at the nearby beach and found huge seashells. The view was breathtaking, but we learned from our experience and returned to the mainland early.

After enjoying the luxury in Moncarapacho for two days, we continued further west to the rockier part of the Algarve. There, we spent the night at a beautiful but crowded beach. Unfortunately, our attempt to go snorkeling failed due to the rough water.

The next day, we went to Algar Seco, a famous rock formation in the Algarve. We walked along a wooden walkway right next to the cliffs. At some spots, we could overlook the entire coastline of the Algarve. Some paths led down to the rocks, where we could climb between, on, or inside the rocks.

From there, we drove further inland. The huge hotel complexes disappeared, and a less touristy mountain landscape appeared in front of us. We started from Monchique to climb Picota. The directions advised us to bring pepper spray for the guard dogs of the farmsteads, which we did. Nevertheless, we were relieved not to have encountered any dogs, but to have only heard them barking. When we arrived at the summit after a great hike between lemon and orange trees, ferns, olive groves, peonies, and cork oaks, we had a fantastic 360° panoramic view of the Algarve. The way back led us through the blazing sun, with only a few exceptions, and when we arrived sweaty at the car, we were glad to have air conditioning.

Now we are heading back to the coast to the beach. The cold Atlantic is a delightful refreshment in this weather.