Medronho is the traditional spirit of the Algarve's mountains, and a strong part of the identity of the serra near Silves. It is an eau-de-vie distilled from the fruit of the arbutus, or strawberry tree, which grows wild across the hills of the region.
The arbutus berries are gathered when ripe, fermented, and then distilled — traditionally in small, artisanal stills. The nearby Serra de Monchique is the best-known centre of medronho production, and the spirit is closely tied to the rural, mountain Algarve rather than to the coast. It is clear, strong and dry, and is traditionally drunk in small measures as a digestif after a meal.
Medronho is not exclusive to Silves — it belongs to the wider serra, including the Monchique and Caldeirão ranges — but the mountains around Silves are part of that tradition. For visitors, a small glass of medronho is an authentic taste of the inland Algarve, and some mountain distilleries can be visited.
⭐ Must-try:
Medronho
Highlights
- Traditional eau-de-vie of the Algarve mountains
- Distilled from the wild arbutus, or strawberry tree, berry
- Closely linked to the nearby Serra de Monchique
- Clear, strong and dry, drunk as a digestif
- An authentic taste of the inland, mountain Algarve
Frequently asked questions
What is medronho?
Medronho is a traditional Algarve spirit, an eau-de-vie distilled from the fruit of the wild arbutus, or strawberry tree.
Is medronho specific to Silves?
It belongs to the wider Algarve serra, with the nearby Serra de Monchique its best-known centre; the mountains around Silves share the tradition.
How is medronho drunk?
It is clear, strong and dry, traditionally drunk in small measures as a digestif after a meal.