Carvoeiro is a small town on the south coast. What started out as a small fishing village has grown and grown into an attractive tourist destination, also thanks to a great selection of sandy beaches protected by towering cliffs. Tourism is booming with guests taking advantage of the beautiful coastline, the water sports and a good selection of bars, cafés and restaurants.
Distance from Quinta do Rosal: 5 km (10 minute's drive)
As one of Carvoeiro's greatest attractions, a trip to the beach is a must. Set aside a day and take to the sands so you can really appreciate the golden splendour. The town's main beach, Praia do Carvoeiro, is located right in its centre with plenty of facilities available such as bathrooms, restaurants and water sports. Because the town is so nearby you also have large selection of restaurants just a few minutes from the shore. This beach is well sheltered by the high cliffs and is a favourite with families because it is nice safe and easy accessible.
Only slightly further down the coast is the Praia do Paraíso, which is a small protected little bay. There are no facilities on this beach, so come prepared. However there is a restaurant sitting on the cliffs above it and open throughout the year. Winding steps cut into the cliffs will lead you down to the beach.
Praia da Marinha is Carvoeiro's most beautiful beach. It is a little way away from the town centre but certainly worth a visit if you're after something a little more special. There are great rocky outcrops at Marinha beach and beautiful clear water, ideal for snorkeling. At low tide all the secret coves are revealed and this beach has been recognized a number of times for its beauty – pictures have been used on many promotional commercials and in Portugal guides.
Algar Seco is a popular site with magnificent rock formations. Though not a beach, this rocky collection of grottoes and islets tempts tourists interested in exploring. Sea erosion has created an intricate rock formation with caves and tunnels, pools and rugged outcrops. It's ideal for those who fancy a bit of a scramble before enjoying a great view.
The beaches are incredible, but if that's not quite enough adventure for you why not get your sea legs and explore the coastline by boat? The Algarve is famed for its rocky coastal formations, high cliffs and picturesque scenery; by venturing out in a boat you will have access to all the mystical caves, coves and hidden grottoes. It's an interesting experience and well worth it to see parts of Portugal you wouldn't usually have access to. There are a number of excursion companies that operate from Carvoeiro including the cavern boat trip, which is highly recommended.
Carvoeiro is a great place for local flavours. The Lagoa region, in which the town is located, is famous for its wine production and so a the majority of the restaurants and bars will be serving very local wine. One popular stop-off is the 'Cocktail Garden' which has a good selection of drinks but also a very family-friendly atmosphere.
Seafood is of course a large part of the town's culture and you will find fresh fish dishes in the majority of establishments as well as a range of other Algarvian delicacies. There are a great many restaurants to choose from, so you'll be able to find something to suit all tastes and all budgets. If you take a wander into town you'll find a circle of bars and restaurants all offering different menus and a range of options depending on the time of day. With a number of outside seating areas you will be a able to enjoy the town's great setting and watch the sunset as you eat.
The International Algarve Fair is held annually in June just a short distance from Carvoeiro at the Fatacil ground in Lagoa. Over the years the event has grown in popularity and now more than 10,000 people come to enjoy it. All kinds of events and entertainment take place over the course of the weekend including a range of stalls and hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their goods. You'll be able to enjoy live music, an array of tastes and smells and a fun dog show too!