Once a tiny fishing village, Praia do Carvoeiro is now a bustling beach resort in Portugal’s Algarve region. It’s surrounded by golden beaches backed by dramatic cliffs and is on the doorstep of atmospheric Ferragudo.
Things to do in Praia do Carvoeiro
Kick back beneath a beach umbrella on the small cove of Praia de Carvoeiro or soak up the elevated views across the sands from its rocky bluffs. When it’s time to eat, you can dine on tapas and wine at Tapas da Vila, feast on authentic Portuguese fare at Restaurante Donna Maria or grab an ice cream at La Piazza.
One of the best ways to experience the surrounding coastline is on the Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos, which stretches for 11.5 kilometres between the Vale de Centianes and Praia da Marinha. This clifftop trail accesses the double sea arch at Praia da Marinha and the Benagil Cave and connects to one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, Praia do Carvalho.
For a day away from the coast, head to the picturesque village of Ferragudo, which lies at the mouth of the Arade River. It oozes old-world charm, with cobbled streets leading between its whitewashed houses and a lively square surrounded by alfresco cafes. Don’t miss the white-and-yellow Igreja de Ferragudo or the medieval Castelo de São João do Arade, which was erected as a watchtower by King John II.
Getting around Praia do Carvoeiro
Praia do Carvoeiro is a 15-minute drive from Portimão and 35 minutes from Lagos while Faro is 45 minutes away. Algarve Airport is just under an hour’s drive from Praia do Carvoeiro and has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses travel to Praia do Carvoeiro while renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the region.