Moncarapacho is a village situated some 8km northeast of Olhão and some 10km east of Estói.
Like most other villages and towns east of Faro it is far less frequented by tourists and provides a hideaway for those wanting to stay in the Algarve but still have the many tourist facilities within easy driving distance. The IP1 motorway has a junction some 3km north hence getting to Spain or to Albufeira is very quick. Car hire is highly recommended.
The area is of note as many traditional crafts flourish here including the working of leather for horse harnesses and the making of ceramics. More modern however is the large flower growing operation to the northeast.
The main church, although small, is well worth a look as it is both unusual and has a small museum next to it that has items dating to pre-roman times.
Moncarapacho has its own website, (almost all in Portuguese)
If you really want to see what Moncarapacho has to offer then there is a large 3 day festival in the first weekend of August showing the many items produced in the area.
Finally, for those visitors who do not want to just stay on the beach or by
the pool and want to see more of the original Algarve then a circular drive
through Moncarapacho, Estói, Olhão
and Tavira is well worth doing. Again with the IP1
link this makes a good half day visit from the more touristy areas.
