Carvoeiro is a picturesque coastal town in the Algarve, known for its stunning cliffs, golden beaches, and charming whitewashed houses. Once a traditional fishing village, it has retained its authentic feel while offering a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The town’s main beach, Praia do Carvoeiro, sits in a sheltered cove surrounded by dramatic rock formations, making it a perfect spot for swimming and scenic walks.
With cosy restaurants, cliffside boardwalks, and nearby caves to explore by boat, Carvoeiro is an ideal blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.

Places of interest and activities you can enjoy when going on a villa holiday in Carvoeiro:

Praia do Carvoeiro (Carvoeiro Beach)
A charming crescent of golden sand nestled within the town, backed by colourful buildings and lively cafés.
Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and launching boat tours to nearby caves

Carvoeiro Boardwalk & Algar Seco
A scenic cliffside walkway winding from the old fort and chapel through dramatic rock formations to the stunning caves of Algar Seco.
Highlights include the famous “Boneca” cave and panoramic sea views—perfect for photography and sunset strolls

Fort of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação
Built in 1670, this small coastal fortification includes a chapel and offers striking views over the beach and cliffs.
A must-see for history enthusiasts.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos)
This dramatic 5.7–11 km cliff-top hiking path links Vale de Centeanes to Praia da Marinha.
Hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas of beaches, arches, and lighthouse landmarks.

Ilves Castle (day trip)
A short 15 km drive brings you to the medieval Moorish castle in Silves—a historic and visually striking excursion from Carvoeiro.

Restaurants which are worth a visit:

Bon Bon (Michelin‑starred fine dining)
Located just outside Carvoeiro, this elegant restaurant by chef José Lopes earned a Michelin star for its refined Mediterranean‑Portuguese tasting menus featuring seasonal seafood, premium meats, and exquisite presentations.
Enjoy an intimate and serene ambience with a countryside setting and modern architecture.

The Wolf – Bar & Grill
Situated on Estrada do Farol, this upscale bar‑grill serves top-quality steaks (including US Black Angus T‑Bone), rack of lamb, and daily seafood specials. With indoor, ground floor, and terrace seating, it’s ideal for a relaxed yet classy dinne.

Primavera Ristorante Trattoria
A well-loved Italian eatery offering fresh pasta, pizzas, and hearty Mediterranean dishes. Portions are generous and flavors are traditional with a slight gourmet twist.
Family-friendly and charming, with outdoor seating and occasional live music.

Le Crô Portugal
Tapas, Portuguese fusion
This cozy restaurant serves thoughtfully crafted small plates made from local ingredients, paired with an excellent Portuguese wine selection.
Intimate and warming ambience, ideal for a quiet evening out.

Details correct as at 25/06/2025. These restaurants are neither endorsed nor recommended by Villa Select.

The best beaches to enjoy in Carvoeiro:

Praia do Carvoeiro
Distance: 0 km (central beach)
Located right in the heart of town, this small but scenic beach is nestled between colorful cliffs and traditional whitewashed houses.
Calm waters, soft sand, and nearby cafés make it ideal for families and sunbathers. It’s also a popular launch point for boat trips to the nearby caves.

Praia do Paraíso
Distance: ~350 meters / 5-minute walk
A peaceful, hidden cove just west of the main beach, reached by a long staircase down the cliffs.
Less crowded than Praia do Carvoeiro, it offers more seclusion and dramatic coastal views — perfect for couples or quiet relaxation.

Praia do Vale de Centeanes
Distance: ~2.5 km / 5-minute drive or 30-minute walk
A wide, sandy beach surrounded by high cliffs, great for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring rocky outcrops.
It’s also the starting point of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, one of the Algarve’s best cliff walks.

Praia da Marinha (nearby must-visit)
Often listed among the most beautiful beaches in Europe, Praia da Marinha features golden cliffs, natural sea arches, and crystal-clear water. It’s a postcard-perfect setting for swimming, hiking, and photography.

Praia de Benagil
Distance: ~5.5 km / 8–10 minutes by car
This beach is famous for the nearby Benagil Sea Cave, which you can visit by boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard.
While the beach itself is small, it’s very popular due to the cave and scenic coastline.