Monchique

Great place to see Rock Bunting and Warblers in Spring

Rates

Adults: 89,15 €
Children: 89,15 €
Private groups possible

Duration

8 hours

About

As the Algarve is not limited to the coast, we explore the hills around Monchique. Unfortunately, a big part of the area has been planted with Eucalyptus but there are still some nice patches with Cork Oaks. We spend the morning exploring Foia, the highest point (902 m) and its surroundings. If the weather is clear, it is possible to see a big part of the coast. We will look for 3 species: Black Redstart, Blue Rock Thrush and Rock Bunting. The scrubby areas host Whitethroat, Sardinian, Dartford and Melodious Warblers. We usually explore another area, lower, with more trees. There we can see Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Short-toed Treecreeper and Jay. In terms of birds of prey, Kestrel and Buzzard are the most common species. However, Sparrowhawk, Short-toed or Bonelli’s Eagle are found in the area.

We then go to Caldas de Monchique, a small spa village, for lunch, under the shade of big trees, listening to water running, Nuthatch, Great and Blue Tit and watching Grey Wagtails. We spend the afternoon walking around the place and enjoying it. Firecrest, Nightingale, Blackcap and Robin are usually spotted. We finish the day with a well deserved drink.

What is included

The guide, a checklist, the use of field guides, a drink at the end or middle of the day and all the driving are included in the price.