Lagos to Meia Praia
Cliff Walk
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This walk is about a mile long from Lagos town centre and with a thrilling cliff-top walk. Follow the Avenia (promenade) along the river, leading out of the town. At the top, you will see a fire station on the right. You will see a signpost to Praia do Pinhao, follow this path and follow the cliff-top route for about a quarter of an hour where you will come to the beautiful Dona Ana beach. You will want to stay here to admire the beauty of this beach and maybe reward yourself with a drink or meal at one of the cafes.
Woods, Hills
Monchique
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Monchique is a mountainous area inland from Lagos and is often called ´the garden of the Algarve’. It is a green wooded area, with dense swathes of cork, pine and eucalyptus trees. There are rivers, small streams and refreshing springs. The higher grounds are rocky and barren.
The Monchique has two peaks, Foia ( 902m ) and Picota (774m ) with panoramic views of some of the most beautiful parts of the Algarve. This area provides some of the most challenging walking within the Algarve but rewards the walker with its unique atmosphere and interesting wildlife. The town of Monchique and its charming villages offer another perspective on Algarve life. Here you will discover traditional skills and handcrafts still being practiced. The famous Medronho (a very strong local liquor), distilled from the Strawberry tree, distinctive hand knitted sweaters and the unusual wooden chairs all suggest the character and uniqueness of this area. In the local restaurants, the food reflects the richness of the landscape and many travel from other parts of the Algarve to feast on local meat and game. Stop off at the pretty thermal village of Caldas de Monchique. A renowned spa town in the past, Caldas de Monchique still maintains a quiet charm. Visitors still come to enjoy the famous waters and a range of other natural therapies on offer at the new hotel.