Carvoeiro and the local area:
Carvoeiro is a lively fishing village and beach resort 3 km west of Rocha Brava. The village is well served with banks, a post office, pharmacy and shops selling everything from beach mats to fashionable clothes, fresh produce and locally produced wine. Many bars and restaurants provide an amazing choice of places to eat and drink.
The area around Carvoeiro has plenty of delightful coves with lovely sandy beaches and safe swimming; some have umbrellas and loungers for hire and a lifeguard to ensure your safety. Many of these beaches also have a beach bar where you can enjoy fresh fish and the ubiquitous chicken piri piri.
East of Rocha Brava is the delightful fishing port of Benagil, and the spectacular cliffs and glorious golden sand of Praia Marinha.
To the west are the lovely beaches of Pintadinho and Ferragudo (good for watersports). Although a car is not essential it is worthwhile if you want to explore these places and venture further afield.
Exploring the nearby region:
North of Carvoeiro is Lagoa, the wine capital of the Algarve, with wine tasting shops and a good market. Just north of here the new road link brings you to Silves, the ancient Moorish capital of the Algarve. Overlooking the fertile valley of the Rio Arade, Silves has typical narrow streets, a colourful market, lots of cafes and good restaurants, an ancient castle (where an Islamic garden is now being created) and a museum.
Further west is the historic port of Lagos, where Henry the Navigator, who financed many voyages of discovery in the 15th century, is thought to have established a school of navigation. This is one of the most interesting and attractive coastal towns on The Algarve with its marina, fishing port, churches, castle, pedestrian shopping centre and lots of bars and restaurants! Do visit the impressive two storey market, where you can buy the freshest fish and meat and the best quality vegetables and fruit I have ever seen.
Further afield:
Inland from Portimao is Monchique and Caldas de Monchique, famous for its health boosting mineral waters. From here are some gentle walks through the wooded valleys in the foothills of the Serra Monchique.
In the south-west are the delightful fishing villages of Sagres, Salema and Burgau, complete with sandy beaches, welcoming bars and restaurants. At Sagres visit the famous wind compass and fort and nearby the impressive lighthouse of Cape St Vincent. The towering cliffs - the most westerly point of continental Europe - are stunning.
If you are into surfing, the magnificent beaches on the west coast are a surfer's paradise, particularly Arrifana. Or, if you are enjoy walking or getting away from the crowds then stop off in the National Park which surrounds this area. It offers tantalising glimpses of the natural flora and fauna of this more natural, wild area of The Algarve.
All these areas are easily accessible for a day trip from Rocha Brava.
Other Activities:
ZooMarine Theme Park, Aqualand, Slide & Splash, historic towns with markets, shops, castles and museums, safari trips and picnics.
Learn more about this holiday rental at the owner's website:
