Carvoeiro Holidays

This one-time fishing village in Portugal’s western Algarve has a history dating back centuries. Here you’ve got a compact town centre made up of two main roads leading to the square. There are pretty white buildings set into the cliff, along with a lighthouse and the remains of a 17th-century fort. And just along the coast is Algar Seco, a spectacular landscape formed by cliff erosions.

Carvoeiro provides a choice of beaches – you’ve even got one in the middle of town, just off the square. There are loungers and umbrellas to rent, plus a choice of bars and restaurants by the entrance. And from here, the next beach along is Praia do Paraiso, a sandy bay sheltered by dramatic cliffs. The restaurant above the sands offers up some fantastic views from its terrace.

You’re 20 minutes from the Algarve’s prettiest town, Silves. Here, it’s well worth taking a leisurely walk along the river, past the orange and lemon trees. Or you can wander up the hill to the cathedral and Moorish castle. Both offer up great views of the town and surrounding countryside. Or just take a seat in the central square, with its landscaped gardens.