Jardim das Oliveiras

Jardim das Oliveiras is a wonderful rustic restaurant specializing in authentic regional dishes of the Algarve. Located high in the Monchique hills, the restaurant is surrounded by olive groves, eucalyptus, pine and cork trees.

True to its countryside location, the menu at Jardim das Oliveiras draws heavily on traditional dishes of the Algarve and more specifically, the interior of the Algarve. In the winter months there are several hearty stews and casseroles on offer. Game, smoked and cured meats are also an integral part of the menu. The traditional wood burning ovens are used for slow roasting. The result is incredibly tender and subtly flavoured meats. And don't forget the starters - presunto, chouriço, local cheeses and olives among others served with fresh home-made bread.

The restaurant is housed on an old farmhouse and has several indoor dining areas. The décor is in keeping with the ambience with rustic beams and a dark wooden bar. In the winter months the restaurant is wonderfully welcoming with warming fires burning in the hearths. A long relaxed lunch here is a wonderful way to pass a winter Sunday afternoon. Outside, Jardim das Oliverias has a lovely garden, dotted with olive trees - hence the restaurant's name. There is a terrace for al fresco dining in the summer and a children's playground to keep the little ones happy while you enjoy a great meal.

The Monchique area of the Algarve is a world apart from the coastal resorts. Here you have small hamlets, isolated farm houses and life lived at a much slower pace. Jardim das Oliverias is just below the highest point of the Algarve - Foia which stands at 902 m above sea level. The views from here are stunning. On a clear day you can see the Western Algarve laid out before you and over to Costa Vicentina . Country side walks through this area are a fantastic way to discover this lesser known Algarve and the team at Jardim das Oliveiras are happy to organize a guide and a route suitable for you. Read more about Monchique Walks.

Jardim das Oliveiras wins all round - fantastic location and fantastic food.