Fóia, Mountain summit in Serra de Monchique, Portugal.
Fóia is a mountain peak in the Serra de Monchique that rises 902 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. The summit offers expansive views across the landscape and down to the coast.
The mountain area contains remains of Nossa Senhora do Restelo Monastery from 1632, reflecting early religious settlements in the region. This site shows the long human presence in these hills.
Local hiking communities maintain multiple marked trails connecting Monchique village to the summit through paths used by generations of Portuguese shepherds.
You can reach the summit via a roughly 6-kilometer hiking trail from Monchique village or by driving up the paved road to the parking area. Choose based on your fitness level and how much time you have.
The summit houses a Portuguese Air Force radar station that monitors aerial traffic over the southern part of the country. This installation has been an important part of regional infrastructure for decades.
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