Monchique Hike

Our adventure leaves from Lagos about 5 hours before sunset as we plan to atop the 2nd highest peak in the Algarve right as the sun is setting. The windy road to Monchique takes about 40 minutes from Lagos and once there we will exit the Van on a quiet side street of Monchique. We will walk through the quaint streets, admiring the locals lush gardens and beautiful tiled houses. Once into the center of Monchique we will then visit our friends who will provide our guests with a honey & medronho tasting while explaining the fascinating history of this ancient little village that has seen so much change. However Monchique has been able to keep much of their ancient traditions alive. After trying four types of locally produce Honey, an ounce of Melosa and an ounce of the infamous medronho we will set off to explore - the now derelict - 17th century Franciscan convent that overlooks Monchique. After coming back into town from the church we will set off up the other side of Monchique. We will walk amongst cork, eucalyptus and pine trees all the way to the top before sitting down to enjoy a nutritious tapas style dinner at sunset. After dinner we will hike down at twilight to the van.