Nearby:: Boat trips can be taken from the beach at Carvoeiro to local beaches or to view the spectacular rock formations at nearby Algar Seco and otherwise inaccessible coves and beaches passing caves and blow holes on the way. Along the N125 towards Porches, known for its potteries and ceramics studios, there is an equestrian centre for those interested in horse riding. There are several water theme parks including Zoomarine where it is possible to swim with Dolphins. The peace and tranquillity of the Monchique Mountains, forests of pine trees and cork oaks, is only a short drive via the pretty mountain village of Caldas de Monchique, source of the local bottled water. The ancient Moorish walled town of Silves with its fort, archaeological museum and Saturday morning market makes an interesting inland excursion. Silves is also home to the atmospheric sea-food restaurant Marisqueira Rui which enjoys a reputation, with tourists and local people alike, as being one of the Algarve’s best!
Further afield:: For more ambitious excursions, Cape St Vincent and the fort at Sagres is the most westerly land fall of continental Europe and can be reached by car in approximately one and a half hours via the recently extended trunk road passing through countryside of the Western Algarve not previously seen by tourists. The rugged western coast is popular with surfers and, even in mid summer, is relatively uncrowded. The Guadiana River forms the Eastern border with Spain which can also be reached easily courtesy of the ‘Via Infante’ trunk route. The N125 gives access to the many places of interest along the way including the beautiful church of St Laurenco, with its tiled interior, near Almancil, the hill towns of Loule with its bustling Saturday morning market and popular picnic spots at Alte. A day trip to Lisbon and its atmospheric ‘Alfama’ district is also quite feasible.
Sport:: The Algarve is, of course, renowned for golf and hence can boast some of the best courses available. The closest is Vale de Milho which is a surprisingly challenging nine hole course ideal for short iron practice and for combining a little golf with a family holiday or non-playing partner! Pinta and Gramacho at the Pestana complex are approximately fifteen minutes drive away. Whilst guests are entitled to discounted green fees at each of these three courses, there are many other courses to choose from that can be reached by car in under an hour. Tennis is available at the nearby Rocha Brava complex where coaching is also available, and at the Carvoeiro Clube de Tenis where there is also a scuba diving school. The beaches of Albufeira and Praia Grande at Feragudo offer water sports facilities, the latter being a popular windsurfing venue. All in all we feel sure you will find something for everyone!
