Fonte do Amor

## Overview Fonte do Amor — the "Fountain of Love" — is a public drinking spring nestled in the lush, wooded valley of Caldas de Monchique, a historic thermal hamlet in the hills of the Algarve, southern Portugal. Caldas de Monchique has been celebrated for its healing waters since at least Roman times, and the area's natural springs have drawn visitors for centuries seeking the reputed therapeutic benefits of the local mineral-rich waters. The village sits at the foot of the Serra de Monchique mountain range, surrounded by dense forests of eucalyptus, cork oak, and chestnut trees, creating a tranquil, shaded setting. The name "Fonte do Amor" reflects the romantic character of the village, which has long been a place of relaxation and rejuvenation. The thermal waters of Caldas de Monchique are historically known for their alkaline bicarbonate composition and have traditionally been used for drinking and bathing. While the main thermal spa draws on deeper geothermal sources, the public springs scattered around the village — including Fonte do Amor — have historically been used by locals and visitors alike as drinking water sources. ## Directions 1. From the town of Monchique, head south on the N266 road toward Portimão. 2. After approximately 6 km, follow signs for **Caldas de Monchique**, turning off the N266 into the village. 3. Once in Caldas de Monchique, the village is small and walkable. Fonte do Amor is located within the village area — look for signposted fountains along the shaded pathways that wind through the hamlet. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 37.2864, -8.5541. Parking is available at the edges of the village; the central area is largely pedestrian. ## What to Expect Fonte do Amor is a traditional public fountain set within the charming, compact village of Caldas de Monchique. The spring is accessible on foot along the village's cobbled and shaded walkways, which meander through gardens and beneath a canopy of mature trees. The atmosphere is peaceful and distinctly old-world, with stone architecture and the sound of flowing water throughout the hamlet. The water from Fonte do Amor has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors, and the springs of Caldas de Monchique have long been reputed for their mineral qualities. However, as with any natural spring, water quality can vary and independent testing is not always available — visitors should be aware that conditions may change. The village itself is worth exploring: there is a small central square with cafés, a picnic area shaded by towering trees, and the historic thermal spa complex nearby. The surrounding Serra de Monchique offers excellent hiking opportunities, and the area is notably cooler than the coastal Algarve, making it a refreshing retreat especially in summer. Caldas de Monchique can be visited year-round, though spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking and exploring the area's many natural water features.