Picota - where is it

[maccasa]

Anyone been to the second highest spot in the area - Picota - supposedly its a few kms from Foia and u get there by taking the rd. to Marmaletes. We tried it and although a spectacular rd we only found a sign to Picotas, this "rd" (track!) went downhill through forests until eventually we ended up near the Autodromo. Lovely drive but I dont reckon we found Picota

[sunman]

go up to Monchique, past the petrol station traffic lights and turn right, (opposite way to Marmalete I think), Picota is signposted and is still quite a drive; great views North

[maccasa]

hehe - many thanks that would explain why we didn't find it!

[maccasa]

Is that the Alferce rd? N267?

[sunman]

no idea

we used to have friends up there so went up a bit; go up towards Monchique, just before the main town you pass a garage with some traffic lights whilst still going up hill, maybe 50-100 yds after that you turn right, a short way up I remember the road splits and I can't honestly remember if you go right or left but it's signposted,

& I don't think there's much up there, can only remember passing the odd house, it all got very badly burned in the fires 5 or 6 years ago

[maccasa]

I know the garage and strange set of lights, so we will have a look in two weeks time - thanks

[Mexican Pete]

Try searching "Picota, Monchique, Portugal" on Google Maps. It seems a bit imprecise, but might give you an idea of where it may be!
If you do go, can you report back on whether it’s worth going please?

[maccasa]

Yep - found it - not on the road I thought so good job you gave me the ref. We will be there in 2 weeks and will report back

[Geoff]

A walk up to Picota is well worth it , beautiful views. See some nice pics at :
http://guides.getportugal.com/algarve/s ... /09/picota

After your walk, drive on a bit furher and there is a fascinating little hamlet on your left ( can't recall name, and it doesn't seem to be marked on Google maps). You need to park your car and walk ( no road access) but there are a number of artist shops and a nice bar/cafe/restaurant with spectacular views, where you can reward yourself after your exertions!

[maccasa]

Great drive- interesting road up to it for sure! and a bit of a scramble up the rocks to the top, but what views - far better the Foia

somewhat confused with your "drive a bit further to a small hamlet" ??? the road is a dead end at Picota and when you go back down the only other way is to turn rt and carry on until you reach a mainish rd - SP monchique or Alferce.

[Geoff]

It's about half way along the EN267 from Monchique to Alferce , on left hand side, begins with a P........totally agree that the walk/views from Piocota exceed those from Foie.