Fóia (from Monchique)

The roof of the Algarve. At 902m, Fóia is the highest point in southern Portugal and the climb every visiting cyclist must tick. The ascent from Monchique town winds through eucalyptus and cork oak forest on consistently engaging gradients, with the final 2km opening up above the treeline to reveal panoramic views stretching from the Spanish border to Cape St Vincent. The road surface is excellent throughout. This is the climb that defines cycling in the Algarve — every February it features on the Volta ao Algarve, and for good reason.