Towns To Explore Near Monchique

Ruth Gorrie
May 20
11 min read

Updated: May 21

Towns to explore near Monchique. As Andorinhas, holiday villa Algarve

Wandering around the towns in Portugal is a delightful experience and makes a nice trip out. Each town has a unique feel, and there are a mix of coastal or inland towns, bigger or smaller ones, some more lively or relaxed than others, some with a lot of history, rich culture, more rustic, scenic, and picturesque. They are all different with different focuses and appealing to different types of people and what they are wanting out of their holiday.

All are wonderful!

If you're staying in the beautiful Monchique and would like to visit some other towns nearby, here are are few local ones and a bit about them.

I have done a whole detailed blog about Monchique itself, which you can find here: https://www.holidayvillaalgarve.com/post/monchique

And I've also done one about the local beaches that are worth a visit too: https://www.holidayvillaalgarve.com/post/beaches-between-faro-and-lagos

There are many thorough blogs on the internet about these places, so I'll give you a taster and summary of the various towns. If you're interested in more details because you'd like to visit there, then I'll add a link at the end of the blog to a blog entirely based on that town (written by someone else) to help you plan your trip.

I've also added screenshots of where these places are in relation to Monchique so you can get an idea.

All the photos included in this blog are my own.

Alferce

Alferce is a small village just down the road from Monchique.

It is the home of Passadicos Barranco do Demo (meaning Devil's Gorge) - a short trail featuring wooden staircases attached to steep, rugged cliffs. The walkway has a hanging suspension bridge. It has mixed reviews but I went here mid April and really enjoyed it. I felt it ticked lots of boxes: near the villa (15 minutes away), stunning scenery, the steps were a good bit of exercise (to compensate for all the nice food that gets eaten on holiday!), the suspension bridge was novel and fun, and who doesn't love a waterfall? You could go off the bridge and scramble on rocks to get to the waterfall and stream, kids would be kept entertained, and it didn't eat up much of the day, there was plenty of time to do other things too. In the heat of the summer it's probably not so enjoyable if the waterfall has dried up and with all those steps.

You can park in Alferce and walk, or you can drive right near to where the steps begin (though it could be hard to park depending on how busy it is). You drive along some very bumpy roads. There are two options how to get here. I think the one you come to first (coming from Monchique, see signs pictured below) is the best one to start at.

The village of Alferce is very small and very much a village of locals rather than tourists. It has the usual wonderful feel of all Portuguese towns (cobbled streets, etc.) but it wouldn't take you long to have a little wander and there wouldn't be much else to do. I visited after doing the suspension bridge walk which I enjoyed, but there are towns that would be far more worth your time to visit.

Aljezur

Aljezur is a market town in western Algarve, situated on a hill. The town is located within the Costa Vicentina natural park, so is surrounded by wild, unspoilt nature. There is the Castle of Aljezur which is in ruins and dates back to the 10th century. It is free to enter but was a little underwhelming, though the walk up to it was lovely. There are a couple of churches, the ruins of an old fortress, and four museums. The steep winding cobbled streets are delightful.

Some nearby beaches are Praia da Arrifana, Praia de Monte Clerigo (quite big, great with kids), Praia da Bordeira (one of the biggest and most famous in the area with fantastic views), Praia do Amado, Praia da Amoreira (here you can swim in both the sea and the river), Praia de Vale Figueiras. This area is known for it's bigger waves, which are great for surfing, but are also simply mesmerising to watch.

The photos pictured bellow are of Praia da Bordeira. Between there and Praia do Amando there is a beautiful walk along the cliffs (the Pontal da Carrapateira walking trail). This beach was absolutely stunning with it's white sand, big waves, sand dunes and views. A must see!

Sagres and Cape St. Vincent

Whilst most of the towns I've written about are in southern Portugal, Sagres is western Portugal. If you're wanting a sea with good waves, Sagres is the place for you with it's massive Atlantic swells (this goes for Aljezur too which is nearer). It is on the extreme south western tip of the Algarve. Surfers love it here, or people who want a more rustic trip, away from crowds and tourists, and love the outdoors. The cliffs are a darker colour than the more orange cliffs of the south. There are also four beaches within walking distance of the town.

You can go into Sagres Fortress, a 15th century fort, which has spectacular views of the cliffs and beaches. I didn't go in because it cost 10 euros and I didn't have much time to stay.

This wasn't my favourite place, and I prefer the orange cliffs further south, but I don't know if I was missing something because it's one of the recommended places to go. I'll let you decide for yourself.

A short drive away is the Lighthouse of Cabo de Sao Vincente. There are various stalls there too where you can grab an ice-cream, drink, snack and memorabilia.

Lagos

Lagos is a bustling, historic city. It has a vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, historical sights and lots of fun activities. In The Old Town there is the Igreja de Santo which has an extravagant interior, there are ancient city walls, and the Forte da Bandeira which once protected the harbour mouth..

Ponta da Piedade are pictureque headlands to the south of Logos, and formed of highly weathered limestone cliffs creating unique formations.

It has Praia de Dona Ana, and also Praia Do Camilo beaches, both of which are gorgeous. As well as the beaches being wonderful, they both have breath-taking walks along the top of the cliffs. In my opinion, one of the best things you can do and see in the Algarve.

Photo: Top three pictures are Dona Ana, The bottom three pictures are Praia Do Camilo. They are very close to each other.

It also has a marina to do boat trips from.

Praia da Luz

Luz is just a bit further along and also makes a wonderful visit. A small, quiet, peaceful coastal town with a great promenade along the beach - you can have the beach experience without touching the sand if you want to. There are big stretches of rocks to clamber over and the promenade has restaurants, cafes and stalls along the beach. There are also water sports available there too.

Towns to explore near Monchique. Luz. As Andorinhas, holiday villa Algarve

Alvor

Alvor is a small to medium sized coastal town, which makes for a nice little visit. You could enjoy a few hours here, or longer if you want to chill out on the beach. It has a very relaxed ambience.

There is a huge sandy beach (Praia de Alvor) stretching 3.5km along the coastline of Alvor. The Passadicos de Alvor is a series of raised walkways that pass through the protected sand dunes of the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve and along the Praia de Alvor beachfront. There's also fishing boats along the banks of the river with lovely places to eat and drink overlooking it. The town itself has cobbled streets and the typical Portuguese charm and character with loads of wonderful cafes and restaurants, shops and night time bars. It mainly attracts families in the summer and older people out of peak season.

If you'd like the unforgettable experience of skydiving then look up 'Skydive Algarve'. They are located in Alvor.

Portimao

Portimao is the second biggest city of the Algarve, after Faro, and largest city in western Algarve, full of tourism, leisure and retail.

Many people use Portimao and Praia de Rocher interchangeably, but they are different. Portimao is a largely residential city and the shops , restaurants and cafes are more aimed towards locals. A town on a river (Arade). Praia de Rocha, 3km south, is a part of Portimao, but is far more touristy and has the beaches. It's like two towns in one city.

Praia de Rocha is a lively holiday destination focused on the beach and having fun. There are boat tours, water parks and an exciting night life. The beach is gorgeous, sandy, and one of the largest in the western Algarve. It has a wooden boardwalk which stretches for almost the entire length of the beach.

Portimao has a marina where you can go on a variety of fabulous boat trips. We have enjoyed a boat trip here to see some dolphins and the Benagil Caves. It was fantastic.

The city of Portimao is just 20 minute walk from Praia de Rocha. Within the city is a pretty harbourfront (the Ribeirinha de Portimao), which were former docks that have been converted into a delightful waterfront that overlooks the Arade River. There is a historic centre and traditional seafood restaurants.

In Portimao there is the Museu de Portimao (3 euros to enter) which teaches you about the history and heritage of the city. It is housed in a former sardine factory, and shows the history of the fish canning industry in Portimao.

There's the Nossa Senhora da Conceicao which is the main church, the Igreja do Colegio, a church and education centre built by the Jesuits and is the largest church in the Algarve, and the Convento de Sao Francisco Franciscan convent (now in ruins).

There is a huge supermarket here if you want to stock up on supplies before going back. There is also a massive shopping mall with plenty of places to eat.

Lagoa

Lagoa (not to be confused with Lagos) is a hill town of whitewashed houses. It was named after a lagoon that no longer exists. The small town of Lagoa is the centre of a famous wine producing region, mostly red wine.

Lagoa can be divided into 4 civil parishes: Estombar e Parchal; Ferrugudo; Lagoa e Carvoeiro; and Porches.

Lagoa is home to some of the best beaches in the Algarve: Albandeira, Benagil (with access to the most famous wonder - the Benagil Cave which is only accessed by boat); Praia do Carvhalho (accessed via a 'secret passage' leading to a 'window' carved on the cliff framing a postcard view); Carvoeiro; and Marinha (widely considered as Algarve's best beach and one of the world's most beautiful); Praia da Senhora da Rocha and adjoining Praia Nova.

Sand City is located in Lagoa, and also Slide and Splash Waterpark. There is the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, which is the region's most beautiful hike, going over golden cliffs and magnificent beaches.

Ferragudo

Ferragudo is a small but beautiful fishing village which has maintained it's traditional charm. It nice to walk in the small streets of the village and is small but pretty. It doesn't take long to wander around here. It's main landmarks are a small castle called the Castle of Sao Joao do Arcade (built in the 15th century), and a small church (Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceicao) standing on the town's highest point. The main square is Praca Rainha Dona Leonor, surrounded by outdoor restaurants.

Ferragudo's main beach is Praia Grande. From Praia Grande do Ferragudo, you can walk along the coast and over the cliffs for 6km, all the way to Carvoeiro (Trail of the Headlands). Ferragudo is a calm and leisurely place and there aren't many opportunities regarding nightlife (though Praia da Rocha is just down the road).

Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro (45 minutes from the villa) is a medium sized coastal town which is very picturesque and vibrant. It has more beautiful and dramatic coastline and scenery. There is a gorgeous little walk along the top - the Carveiro boardwalk, which leads from the town to the fascinating Algar Seco rock formations. The beach isn't massive but has golden sands, watersports, and is right by the town. There are some boat trips to incredible caves, mostly in small boats that can get up close or go in, depending on the tide. There are plenty of bars and restaurants. I highly recommend this place.

Silves

Whichever town you are in you will find postcards of Silves, because it's another of the most recommended places to visit in southern Portugal.

Silves is a gorgeous little inland town in the Algarve, about 40 minutes drive from the villa. It is full of cobbled streets, lots of rich history and is very typically Portuguese. There is a castle and cathedral there, gorgeous cafes and restaurants and it is just a very picturesque place to wander around with fascinating sights. It homes the most impressive castle in southern Algarve.

It's not a coastal town so has a different feel to many of the others. It's quite small, which means it's ideal to pop to for a visit, where you can come away feeling that you've covered most things there is to see. You could cover it in 2-3 hours, but if you're being leisurely and stopping for food you could spend much longer there. It can be done on foot, but there are some pretty steep bits.

There is a large car park to the southwest of the town

Armacao de Pera

I walked around Armacao de Pera early one grey morning, so I certainly didn't see it at it's best. It felt quite run down and shabby with not loads to offer, but I may be wrong, it may liven up later in the day and in nicer weather. I did enjoy seeing all the fishing boats and I will never complain at being on a beach watching the sea.

Albufeira

Albufeira is very popular for stag and hen dos and for young people because it has such a vibrant nightlife and so much going on. The beaches are full of fun activities and the towns are bustling with a lively atmosphere. It is one of the main tourist attractions in the Algarve and is big and busy - there's so much to do.

Although it is a bit of a way away from the villa, we enjoyed taking our teenagers here for them to experience it.

We've been in the day to enjoy the beach, the evening to enjoy the nightlife, and we've also come especially to the marina here to do parasailing, which we loved. There are a wide variety of boat rides available here, which would accommodate all different tastes.

Quarteira

Quarteira is just over 20 minutes from Faro, if you want a break after or before your flight. Once there I followed signs towards 'Centro', parked up and took a wander. There was a great atmosphere with music and dancing. Everyone was joining in and there was none of the British reserve and self-consciousness that I am used to. It was wonderful. There was live music in restaurants along the beach, with people playing volleyball next to it. There was a nice beach, some good rocks to scramble across, shops, restaurants etc. It was Easter Saturday when I was there, but main impression I was left with was the great atmosphere.

Vilamoura Marina

Vilamoura is part of Quarteira, so I drove along to the marina. There are a vast array of boat trips on offer and a good selection of restaurants, bars and shops too.

Towns to explore near Monchique. Vilamoura. As Andorinhas, holiday villa Algarve

Faro

Faro is meant to be great too, although I haven't explored the town yet. We've been to the beach on our way to the airport to break up our journey and for one last nice thing to do before heading home.

To finish off

So, here are my favourites:

If you want a big town with nightlife, lots going on, beach activities, and a marina, then you have either Portimao, Lagos, or Albufeira to choose from. They're all great. Albufeira being the main one.

Monchique is a must, because it's where you're based and is a quaint little town.

My other top three (though this is totally personal and subjective) would be Silves, the inland town, Carvoeiro and Alvor coastal towns.

Also, one of the beaches where you can walk along the top of the cliffs, I would say, is another must.

Whichever you choose, I hope you have an amazing time. Drink in the beauty and culture and enjoy!

As Andorinhas

From the airport it takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to get to Monchique. As Andorinhas has the advantage of being quiet, peaceful, private and remote, in the picturesque mountains near Monchique, whilst being surrounded by so many excellent towns and beaches. It's a very hard choice between staying and enjoying the villa and pool, or going off exploring all there is to offer nearby. A mix of the two makes the perfect holiday!

As Andorinhas is a 3 bedroom villa in Monchique, The Algarve, Portugal. This holiday home that sleeps 6-7 is the perfect place for a memorable holiday. It has onsite, secure parking, it’s own garden with garden furniture, a terrace and private pool which isn’t overlooked. Inside it is spacious and well equipped with all the comforts for an enjoyable break, including a fireplace. If you'd like to know more about staying at As Andorinhas please visit https://www.holidayvillaalgarve.com/ for more information.