Also known as Praia do Carvoeiro, this village, nestled in the municipality of Lagoa, is the perfect place to spend a day, or even a week, with family, friends, or even alone.
Let’s go to the beach
When one thinks about Carvoeiro, the thoughts go immediately to the Carvoeiro Beach, located in the main square of the town, called by locals as “Largo”. When arriving at the square, the smell of the sea is already evident, and the sand slowly starts to be visible, not on the beach, but in the square, as both cross each other.
The beach begins at the end of the square, where shoes can be taken off, and a small walk is all that is needed to face the sea. This small beach surrounded by rocks is the perfect place to see the sunset during the spring season, or, if brave enough, a swim in the sea is always a possibility.
With plenty of rocks by the water, bathers will know that the sea bath will be filled with iodine, which has numerous health benefits, particularly for hormonal issues.
Time for a walk
Leaving the beach, it is possible to find some stairs and go up the hill to Algar Seco. The incredible rocks that make this place look magical attract many visitors, who want to relax while listening to the sound of the waves.
However, besides visiting Algar Seco, it is worth visiting the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação and the Fort, in homage to Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, which was inaugurated in 1675, but got severely damaged by the 1755 earthquake. The fort was constructed on a high hill to protect the village from possible threats, and it offers a panoramic view of the sea and Carvoeiro.
Once the landscapes are photographed from the fort, it is time to go for a walk in Algar Seco, specifically along the walkway in the area. With a length of one kilometre, the wooden walkway offers the most incredible views of the sea. With places to sit, a drink or a snack can be enjoyed while watching the waves’ motion and hearing the relaxing sound of the sea.
For those who want to go a bit further, climb down the “escadinhas” that lead to more amazing cliffs, where coastal erosion can be seen. Obviously, when doing this walk, people must see the “Boneca”, a rock formation that, when viewed from a boat, resembles a doll.
Social life
Throughout the year, Carvoeiro has a multicultural environment, with expats, immigrants, and locals getting together at the bars, on the streets, and in the various local shops in town.
Carvoeiro is not only a place to appreciate great views, but also a place to make new friends, spend time with the community, and create unforgettable moments in a town that has a lot to offer.