Carvoeiro Holidays

Once a bustling fishing village, Carvoeiro sits in Portugal’s western Algarve and boasts a history stretching back centuries. Two main roads lead from the compact town centre to the traditional square, and there are lots of picturesque white buildings set into the cliff. There's an old lighthouse and a 17th-century fort if you fancy a historical day out. And just along the coast sits Algar Seco, a unique landscape carved out of the limestone cliffs.

Carvoeiro comes with a great collection of beaches, each with their own charms. One sits right by the town square, so you never have to go far to get to the sand. There are often sunbeds and parasols to rent, and bars and restaurants border the sand, so tasty food and refreshing drinks are never too far away. Praia do Paraiso, a small, sandy bay lined with imposing cliffs, is the next beach along. The restaurant on top of the cliff offers exceptional views from its open-air terrace, making it an ideal location for a beachside lunch.

Silves is one of the Algarve’s prettiest towns, and it's only a 20-minute drive from the more relaxed streets of Carvoeiro. Here you can wander along the river, passing colourful and fragrant trees growing lemons and oranges. Alternatively, you can take a seat in the central square and watch the world go by as you enjoy the landscaped gardens. If you’re interested in local history, you can pay a visit to the town’s cathedral and Moorish castle.