In the Algarve, especially around Monchique, cork oaks (Quercus suber), a tree species typical of southern Portugal, grow in abundance. These trees are important to the Portuguese economy because their bark can be harvested every nine years to make cork – Portugal is the world's largest producer. Cork oak forests also form a valuable ecosystem that contributes to biodiversity and soil conservation. You can often recognize old trees by their bare, reddish-brown trunks with a date inscribed on them.

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R.Bungartz

October 27, 2023

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After planting, the tree needs at least 30 years before it can be peeled for the first time. Good quality cork is harvested when a cork oak tree is 50 years old. The tree bark grows by one or one and a half millimeters per year. After ten years, the cork trees in Portugal are peeled. Work is done very carefully. If the bark is injured, cork will no longer grow back. Source: portu.ch/portugal/news/die-korkeiche

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Karin 🐾 🇺🇦 🕊

November 5, 2023

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The cork oak is extremely drought-resistant. It has the ability to reduce your metabolism and is therefore able to survive longer dry periods. portu.ch/portugal/news/die-korkeiche

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1. Cork Oak Forest in Monchique – Cork oak grove in Monchique loop from Monchique

9.79km

02:56

310m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2. Monchique town centre – Monchique Historic Centre loop from Monchique

3.28km

01:02

130m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3. Cork oak grove in Monchique – Fóia Summit loop from Monchique

8.88km

02:58

440m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Elevation 490 m

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Tuesday 27 January

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Max wind speed: 34.0 km/h

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Location: Monchique, Algarve, Portugal

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Cork oak in Monchique

1. Cork Oak Forest in Monchique – Cork oak grove in Monchique loop from Monchique

2. Monchique town centre – Monchique Historic Centre loop from Monchique

3. Cork oak grove in Monchique – Fóia Summit loop from Monchique

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