The Alto Alentejo (North Alentejo) capital is one of the most emblematic Portuguese cities.
This historic center has been classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, in an area of about 105 hectares and about 400 buildings, which is, by itself, one of the best reasons to visit this wonderful Alentejo city.
With all its rich history, there are many places to visit, such as its imposing Cathedral built between 1186 and 1204, the well-known Roman Temple (popularly called “Temple of Diana”) built between the 1st and 3rd century AD, the São Francisco Church and its famous Bones Chapel, completely covered with human bones.
Located right in the center and a must-visit is the famous Praça do Giraldo, with Arabic-style arcades and a fountain dating from 1571, a meeting place for all generations, with entertainment and varied shows.
Monchique is a village in the Algarve, located in a countryside mountain area, surrounded by trees and with stunning views up a good part of the Algarve coast. It's a quiet village, known for its thermal waters with healing powers.
The Romans were the first to discover Monchique and its magical waters. Later in the Islamic period the town was famous for the production of honey and arbutus.
Today it's considered as an Oasis, where it is possible to rest and walk in a peaceful atmosphere, escaping the bustle of the beaches, even on the hottest summer days.
At about 450 meters above sea level, the village of Monchique is a living example of Algarve mountain life.
Monchique is about 35-45 minutes (by car) from Portimão, Lagos or Carvoeiro, which gives the possibility to stay in a mountainous area, being close to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve.
THE SUPER STAGE
This is the longest stage of Ride Across Portugal. With a distance similar to a stage of a big Tour, on this day the riders can live the experience of professional cyclists, with the organization's team giving all the support so that everyone ends the day as winners of this challenge.
The most remote landscapes of Alentejo mark this stage, passing through some of the most iconic locations in this region of southern Portugal.
The stage is mostly flat, but very challenging, due the course design, the quiet roads and the diversity of some of the scenarios. The final climb and the conquest of the Monchique Montain marks the entry in Algarve, and will be the cherry on the top of the cake of this super stage.
The village of Monchique, right at the top of the mountain that dominates the Algarve landscape welcome all the brave riders. The great views until the coast and the charm that surrounds this termal village will be a deserved prize for the effort of all athletes.
At Monchique Thermal Hotel, the entire RAP caravan will relax and recover from this great stage, enjoying this thermal resort where calm and charm merge in a unique atmosphere.
This 4-star hotel in Évora's historic center is just a 5-minute walk from Praça do Giraldo. It has a spacious outdoor terrace with sun loungers and a garden with a swimming pool. Rooms at M’AR De AR Muralhas are bright and elegant, and include a spacious living area with an LCD TV, CD player, DVD player and free toiletries. Some rooms have a balcony. The Sabores do Alentejo Restaurant serves traditional Portuguese cuisine and international meals. Breakfast is available on request via room service. Guests can enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace overlooking the exotic garden. For colder days, there is also a cozy lounge with a fireplace, where guests can enjoy music while enjoying a hot drink. This hotel is located within the historic city walls.
The Villa Caldas de Monchique Thermal Spa Resort is a special place, with a unique atmosphere, where history and charm come together with the natural scenery where it is implemented.
Located in the heart of the Monchique mountain, this exclusive Thermal Resort has four hotels, operating in restored historic buildings. In addition to the hotels, it is possible to enjoy an Outdoor Thermal Water Pool, a Thermal Spa Resort, Restaurants, Shops and a Wine Bar.
Along its 39 hectares, streams run with the world-famous Monchique Water which, thanks to its super alkaline ph of 9.5, is a proven source of vitality.
This is the best place to celebrate the conquest of the Super Stage, recovering to the last stage on the next day.