Carvoeiro holidays

As a former fishing village, seafood like much of the Algarve is a staple here. Specialising in grilled sardines, not to mention Bacalao, a salt fish which is served in a variety of ways including as a fish cake, fritters or with potatoes and cream. Whichever way you choose to sample it, it’s always delicious. No trip to Portugal would be complete without trying its most celebrated sweet pastry – pastel de nata. Found in just about every bakery, its custard filling and sugary topping is worth the calories.

Eating your way around Carvoeiro is easy thanks to its small size. Le Cro Portugal is rated the number one restaurant on TripAdvisor thanks to its high-quality food. With a local couple running the show, tuck into tapas plates of grilled sea bass, sardine bruschetta and chicken meatballs and let the knowledgeable staff recommend food and wine pairings. If it’s authentic seafood you’re interested in A Marisqueira steals the show with food cooked on a charcoal grill. As far as settings go, it doesn’t get much more idyllic than Restaurante Boneca Bar, which is concealed among the striking rock formations of Algar Seco – now that’s what we call a cocktail with a view.

The village is home to one shore, which goes by the name of Praia do Carvoeiro. As a traditional fisherman’s beach, it’s easy to imagine the resort’s seafaring past with boats still bobbing in the water. Often described as one of the region’s little-known gems, there’s something about its absence of crowds which makes it an Algarve must-see. Its stretch of sand is sheltered by its backing of cliffs and its conveniently located with a position just next to the square. Jet skis and pedalos are also on hand if you’re looking for some watersport action, while boat trips depart from here too. Praia do Paraiso sits just up the coast and is another option for keen bathers with its sheltered sands promising idyllic tanning sessions.

Famed for its natural beauty with stunning rock formations, a sheltered shore and cliff-top walks, Carvoeiro gives you a closer look at the Algarve’s scenic side. When you’re not exploring its grottos by boat, you could be hitting its waterpark or even making a beeline for its nine-hole golf course.

Hop on a boat to Benagil Cave: In the next valley along from Carvoeiro you’ll come to Praia de Benagil, where you can rent boats and kayaks to explore its magical sea caves. Only accessible via the water, most people come here in search of its most famed grotto – Algar de Benagil. One for the bucket-list, this impressive natural marvel is often featured among the top places to see in the world. Wondering what makes this phenomenon so special? Just wait until you step inside and see its circular ceiling opening, which manages to let in plenty of natural light leaving all those who visit feeling like they have discovered a hidden shore.

Uncover the history of Silves: Inland you’ll find the historic town of Silves, where cobbled streets house lemon trees and a medieval castle sits on the hillside watching over the centre. Made from red sandstone, this stronghold is worth a visit, especially with its cheap entry fee. Back on the streets, there’s plenty of traditional coffee shops for caffeine lovers, while those craving some retail therapy will much prefer browsing its many shops selling all kinds of one-off trinkets. The town is also home to a stunning cathedral which is recognised for its pale plastered walls, but one of its biggest features has to be the many white storks which rest on the rooftops.