Rocha da Pena is one of my favourite hikes here in the Algarve, one that I enjoy experiencing a couple of times during our stay here as it changes with the season and always provides me with a good workout, excellent views, and a plethora of wild flowers. I love that here they refer to it as “a stunning geological monument”. Sounds so much more poetic than a “small mountain”!
Debbie and Fred in tow, off we headed on a day that was promising rain, was most certainly a bit greyer and cooler than recently however, we did not receive the threatened rain and in fact, right now, the sun is shining.
The mountain offers a well marked circular hiking trail, we clocked in at 6,62 km with 8,901 steps on this moderately challenging hike. We had the entire place to ourselves today, probably thanks to the forecast and I have to say, it was wonderful.
We had taken a picnic lunch with us but as we had arrived early morning, we finished long before actual “lunch time” and opted instead to enjoy a cafe on the terrace at the base of the mountain, then head towards home to eat in the comfort of our own places.
High up on the miradouro sul we could see the entirety of the town of Penina, which always provides me with a little rush of happiness and pleasure. It’s the “end” destination of the hike before the final stretch back old farm roads to our parking. I never cease to feel pleasure at arriving in the village, the wander through, usually with a few waves and “bom dias” to the locals, a cat or two to greet us with suspicious looks, and of course, a dog or two to bark at us then follow us along the final stretch of trail. Today did not disappoint.
A delightful excursion indeed. Whether you are into hiking or you simply want to explore the various flora and fauna, for my money, it’s a must do while here. I can’t wait to head back again in April.
That orchid looks lovely! We haven’t managed to venture up there yet this year xx
The place was full of orchids today, more than I’ve ever seen there before. It’s one of my favourite hikes.
We like it too. Maybe this week, sometime xx
What a lovely hike! Is that the one we did, the first one I went with you?
No, we never got to do this one. It’s about a 45 minute drive from here, further north west. You’d love it however
Short but ‘glorious’ as you say! So wonderful to see the flowers, very uplifting! I am so looking forward to the fields of my amazing poppies!
Yes, the flowers are starting to pop up everywhere. I’m watching for the green lavender. That’s always on the top of my list
How wonderful the orchids are out! Yes, one of my favourites as well.
Hope you saw my note on the bluebells??? You were right there with me.