In addition to gorgeous beaches and stunning seafood, the most alluring part of the Algarve is the year-round sunshine. Always an excellent destination for coastal walks, numerous regular and seasoned travellers have visited for the past two decades just to walk the famous coastal routes, wade in the soft sandy beaches, and explore the stunning little cities. Yet, there is an entirely different, unexplored world resting in the windswept highlands for hiking addicts. One of the favourite hiking spots, the Barranco do Demo (or the Devil's gorge), which is near Monchique, is one of the most peculiar locations in the region.
The Barranco do Demo (Devil's gorge)
While the Algarve is frequently recognised for its beaches, the more mountainous part of the region is surrounded by forests, cliffs, and gorges perfect for hiking. Devil's Gorge is another well-known hiking location, and is considered one of the more breathtaking ones. A series of treks through Monchique's mountains helps travellers catch a different view of the Algarve entirely.
The Barranco do Demo, which goes by the name of Devil's Gorge, is a famous trail due to the 500 stairs of wood and a suspension bridge which provides a breathtaking view of the gorge below. It is called a hike because of the soaring cliffs and narrow pathways, which look as if they are pulled out of a story and can easily be imagined as a part of Middle-earth in a Hobbit book.
Despite its difficulty, the trail is rewarding and allows the hikers to wade through a dense forest of oaks, through steep slopes, and alongside quiet rivers. One of the route highlights, and a favourite amongst many nature photographers, the suspension bridge provides breathtaking views of the valley. There is a combination of both grandeur and solitude that provides a unique experience to anyone visiting the Algarve.
Monchique: A Hidden Gem in the Algarve
More than just a pleasant hike, the town of Monchique, which lies in the interior of the Algarve, is a beautiful place to explore and has now been made the base point for exploring natural beauty of the surrounding hills and the traditional terrain of Monchique.
They can wander the winding roads and alleyways or admire the landscape from the local coffee shop while taking in the breathtaking views from Monchique's famed thermal springs. These have been used for hundreds of years for therapeutic bathing and relaxation. Some of the wellness services on offer gently coax the mind and body red into balance after vigorous hikes.
Other Algarve Hiking Trails of Interest
Barranco do Demo is one of the trail head locations and crossing the hills of the Algarve is one of the more popular routes. However, there are fantastic routes in the surrounding hills. The Via Algarviana is the more famous, leading the hiker from the border with Spain all the way to the western most tip of the cape at St. Vincent. Rustic villages and forest glades threaded with streams are rewards for the adventurer.
Rota Vicentina is a famous waymarked set of trails on the western edge of the Alentejo and the Vicentina Coast. The Portugal most to the sea, these paths have shining white beaches, high rolling headlands, and plunging cliff sides. It is the perfect area for days when you want to enjoy the sea as well as the hike.
Visitors who are looking for more relaxed walks may enjoy Costa Vicentina Patural Park as it combines coastal scenery with leisurely landscapes perfect for families or travelers who enjoy staying mellow. Along the well-defined, well-defined hiking trails, visitors will see the parks wildflowers, beaches, bird magnet sites, as well as the pleasure of bird watching.
Tourism in the Algarve: Emerging Interest in Active Travel
Algarve has been a favorite spot for people looking to soak the sun, enjoy the sea, and unwind. But, in the last couple of years, there has been a clear change towards active tourism, with more people hiking, cycling, and engaging in other outdoor activities to discover the region. This shift has been made possible by the increased demand for eco-tourism, as travelers want to engage more with nature and have eco-friendly travel experiences.
From its numerous landscapes, Moorish-style architecture, pretty towns, and mountain ranges, the region has diverse offerings for people looking to combine their trips with some exercising. The hiking trails of the region, like Barranco do Demo, give travelers a wonderful chance to enjoy the Algarve as well as the unique plants and animals of the region while bathing in the peace of its wonderful hills and valleys.
How To Get There & Travel Tips
Visitors can get to Faro Airport, the first stop to get to the Algarve, and from there take the bus or rent a car to head to Monchique, which is only a 1.5-hour drive. There you can rent a car and explore different towns, trails and beaches, since it is more flexible than riding the bus. There are also hiking tours you can buy if you want a more professional and guided experience.
Conclusion
An unappreciated part of the Algarve is the hiking trails, especially Monchique Barranco do Demo. The valleys, the lush forests, and the rugged mountains of The Algarve can be experienced first-hand unlike the beaches and resorts that most travel for. With the cultural richness and diverse landscape, The Algarve has a growing interest in active tourism which makes it a perfect blend for relaxation and adventure.
Algarve is one of the famous tourist attractions. People go there to see the natural beauty it offers. Whether you are a skilled mountaineer or just a tourist strolling the area Mount Monchique offers you a hike worth remembering. Along the hike you will get to see fantastic scenery such as the Devil's Gorge or the little Monchique villages.