• Carvoeiro

Lying snugly between some of the finest examples of this coastline’s beautiful limestone cliffs and bathed by crystalline turquoise waters, it is no wonder that Carvoeiro has become one of the most sought after destinations in the Algarve.

Charmingly picturesque, this fishing village is a profusion of whitewashed houses that cascade down the sides of its cliffs and converge in a central square situated just behind the beach. The many bars and restaurants on the square make it a lovely spot in which to sit down and enjoy a drink whilst continuing to enjoy views of the beach. Elegant hotels and resorts have developed along the cliffs offering splendid views of the ocean. The Tivoli Carvoeiro Beach Resort Conference & Golf is situated in a prime location on the cliff top overlooking the attractive neighbouring cove of Praia Vale Covo. At this exclusive hotel, guests can enjoy the luxury of a peaceful retreat with stunning views and easy access to all of Carvoeiro’s amenities.

Carvoeiro is a favourite golfing destination and there are a number of courses to choose from in the surroundings. The nearest are the two 18-hole Gramacho and Vale da Pinta courses and the 9-hole Vale de Milho course.

Carvoeiro beach has preserved its attraction and natural beauty whilst offering all the modern facilities of a cosmopolitan resort. Sheltered by cliffs on either side and shelving gently into the sea, the long sandy beach has become a great favourite with families. Colourful boats adorn one end of the beach, the local fishermen using them for fishing or for taking visitors on scenic trips around this impressive coastline.

The golden limestone cliffs that make up the coastline around Carvoeiro and its neighbouring beaches really are a gem. Eroded by wind, rain and seawater, they form an intricate landscape of natural grottoes, arches, crevices and outcrops that are a beauty to explore. The most famous and dazzling example in the Algarve is Algar Seco, situated some 550 metres (0.3 miles) east of Carvoeiro, where visitors can admire a network of rock pools, caves, arches and holes that have been naturally carved out of the rocks.

Carvoeiro’s nightlife livens up considerably during the summer months when the bars and pubs stay open well into the night. There are many restaurants to choose from, offering international or typical Portuguese cuisine. As this is an important wine producing region, why not stop and taste a local fish speciality, accompanied by a smooth and fragrant Lagoa red?