Local Area

Carvoeiro began life as a small fishing village, and it's kept its charm - whitewashed houses tumbling down to a sheltered beach, family-run restaurants, and dramatic ochre cliffs in every direction. It's central to some of the finest coastline in the Algarve, yet quiet enough to feel like a proper escape.

The beaches: Carvoeiro's own beach is a ten-minute walk away, tucked between the cliffs and lovely for a morning swim. A little further afield are some of Portugal's most beautiful: Praia da Marinha, the hidden Benagil cave and beach, and the long golden sands of Praia de Vale Centeanes. The clifftop boardwalk from Carvoeiro to the Algar Seco rock formations is a must at sunset.

The village: You're spoilt for places to eat - fresh grilled fish, Portuguese classics, and a handful of relaxed bars around the square and seafront. There's a small supermarket, a bakery for warm pastries in the morning, and a weekly market nearby.

Things to do:

• Take a boat trip along the coast to the Benagil cave
• Wander the cobbled streets and castle of Silves, the Algarve's old Moorish capital
• Play a round at Vale da Pinta or Gramacho, both close by
• Spend a day at the Slide & Splash water park, great with children
• Drive to Lagos or Ferragudo for a change of scene

Getting here and around: Faro airport is roughly a 50-minute drive. A hire car is the easiest way to explore the coast and hill towns, though once you're at the villa you can happily walk into Carvoeiro for the beach and dinner.

When to come: May, June and September are our favourites - warm, sunny and calmer than high summer. July and August are hot and lively, perfect for a classic beach holiday. Even winter is mild and bright, lovely for walking the coast.

THE END