Caldas de Monchique: The Algarve's Spa Village

Caldas de Monchique is a tiny historic spa village tucked into a wooded valley in the Monchique hills, above the Algarve coast. With its old spa buildings, shady square, spring water and cool air, it feels a world away from the beaches. It’s an easy stop on the way up to Fóia.

Quick answer: Caldas de Monchique is about 25 minutes north of Portimão, just below Monchique town. Stroll the square and the woodland paths, taste the spring water, book a spa treatment, and continue up to Fóia, the Algarve’s highest point, for the views. Try medronho, the local fruit brandy.

Things to do

• The spa: thermal waters used since Roman times, with treatments today.
• The village square: historic buildings and cafés under the trees.
• Woodland walks along the stream.
• Medronho and honey: local specialities.
• Monchique and Fóia: the hill town and the Algarve’s highest point. See Monchique and Silves.

Tips

• Cooler: a good escape on very hot days.
• Car: the easiest way to get there.
• Combine with Silves on a day trip inland. See the best day trips from the Algarve.

More: the best Algarve villages and the best spa hotels.

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