Algarve but not the beach area

Wizard_of_Id

Has anyone been to the Macdonald Monchique Resort & Spa?

I am going at the end of the month (I gave up on Vegas) and was wondering if anyone had any experience of the area around the resort for hiking.

Wizard_of_Id

OK, I give up on the idea that anyone might have been to this resort before but I wonder if anyone can give me an idea of general prices in the Algarve for basic food items (bread & fruit) and sun cream etc.

Most of my purchases will go on my card but I like to deal with cash for the simple stuff so it is a question of how much to take.

glentoran99

Pretty much the same as home

Wizard_of_Id

glentoran99 wrote: »

Pretty much the same as home

Thanks
That's the answer I was hoping for
I may have to pay extra as I will be mostly using local shops rather than supermarkets but at least I know the starting point :T

skid112

Hi, I have been to Monchique before, it is a fantastic area for walking, sightseeing and just enjoying yourself. You will be spoilt for choice for walks. If you intend to head up to Foia, pack a sweater as even in high summer it can get cold, expect a drop of at least 10-12 degrees C.
Caldas de Monchique is worth a visit as is the chapel at the other end of the village, there are steps to a park through the trees up a rather hilly walk. have a look at Monchique uncovered website, couple of websites for walking if you Google Monchique walks

Wizard_of_Id

skid112 wrote: »

Hi, I have been to Monchique before, it is a fantastic area for walking, sightseeing and just enjoying yourself. You will be spoilt for choice for walks. If you intend to head up to Foia, pack a sweater as even in high summer it can get cold, expect a drop of at least 10-12 degrees C.
Caldas de Monchique is worth a visit as is the chapel at the other end of the village, there are steps to a park through the trees up a rather hilly walk. have a look at Monchique uncovered website, couple of websites for walking if you Google Monchique walks

I had looked at the Uncovered website before I had even booked but thanks.
The resort/hotel is outside the village to the south and does boast about hiking trails so I am hoping they will have some kind of guide, Foia is on my list but it is looking like a full days walk for the round trip so I will need to see how I am coping with the heat before I head up there to the cooler air.
I am hoping that the week away will help to clear my head as well as giving me a chance to relax, Wednesday can't come soon :)enough

Wizard_of_Id

A good relaxing stay at the resort, food was good (if a little rich), staff were great and the weather was perfect

Walked up Foia and if anything it was hotter at the top than on the slopes, even with the wind blowing a bit. The round trip from the resort was about 22 miles and with all my stops took just under 11 hours.

jackieblack

Wizard_of_Id wrote: »

A good relaxing stay at the resort, food was good (if a little rich), staff were great and the weather was perfect

Walked up Foia and if anything it was hotter at the top than on the slopes, even with the wind blowing a bit. The round trip from the resort was about 22 miles and with all my stops took just under 11 hours.

Glad to hear that you enjoyed your trip