Portugal, Algarve hinterland, Portugal
Eucalyptus scented hairpins rise from the spa town of Monchique over the Foia ridge.
Length
35 km
In miles
21.7 mi
Driving time
53 min
Atlas rating
8.5 / 10
The run
Monchique to Sao Bartolomeu de Messines, following the N266. Drive it in either direction, though the views usually favour the climb.
Season
Open year round in normal conditions, with the usual care after rain or frost.
Checked by the Drivers Atlas desk
Scored and written by the Drivers Atlas editorial desk, drawing on driven routes across the UK and Europe, mapping data and member road reports. Every road in the library carries a driving and scenery score set by the same method. How we score roads.
Last reviewed 7 May 2026
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Drive here from