For the past decade the FIESA, The International Sand Sculpture Festival has been held from May to mid October in Pêra, near Algoz, Algarve. Over 50 of the Worlds best sand sculptures come from around the world,  to create a fantasy in sand. Over 35,000 tons of sand are sculptured into a fantastic setting covering over 15,000 square metres. Each year there is a different theme. This years theme is Music throughout the World.

The exhibit is open during the day, and at night it is lit up magically to create an imaginary world.

There is also a place for children to try their hand at sand sculpting as well as a drinks and refreshment area.

This is the largest sand sculpture event in the world. The road from Pêra is well signposted. Tickets are available at the gate it definitely worth a visit.

Carvoeiro nestles among the the rocky coves and bays of the Algarve’s coastline just south of Lagoa. It has maintained its traditional fishing village feel and is a little more intimate than some of the larger resorts. With this in mind you are really guaranteed a taste of Portugal and The Algarve.

Beaches

The picturesque main beach of Carvoeiro is a small sandy bay lined with multi colored fishing boats where you can watch the fishermen bringing in the catch of day and mending their nets, while you relax in the Algarve sun. Try the freshly grilled fish for lunch, at one of the many restaurants. As the sun goes down take a stroll up the steep street running up the side of the cliff, to the east of the beach and take your own picture postcard photo of this beautiful little bay. For a change of scenery you will almost certainly enjoy one of the further rocky bays to the east of Carvoeiro, finishing at Praia da Carvalho and Praia Centianes where you will definitely need your snorkeling gear.

A must to see is Algar Seco, a rocky outcrop which has been shaped by the sea over many years to create small windows in the rock where you can look out across the Atlantic. The more enthusiastic will enjoy the fantastic scenery from the cliff top top footpath, heading east from the resort center.

If you have your own transport you should follow the coastal routes in either direction and take in the beautiful beach of Benagil to the east where you can enjoy freshly grilled fish at its best and the picturesque riverside town of Ferragudo to the west, where you could take some windsurfing lessons in the calm waters of the bay.

Carvoeiro is a tranquil part of the Algarve that stems from humble beginnings as a small fishing village. It has a beautiful, secluded, sandy beach where life spins round the cities’ main square. This amazing town is home to a great natural harbour and remains sheltered from the winds due to its location between rocky headlands and thus ideal to spend your Algarve sun holiday.

The close beach is not very big, but extraordinarily clean and beautiful, with neighbouring beaches within easy walking distance. For beach lovers we recommend this serene peaceful place.

The resort has maintained plenty of its character from when it was only a tiny fishing town and this makes it perfect for families looking to relax on a golden beach.

There is quite a lot to do in the region, with one highlight surely being the astonishing rock formations around the shore that can be admired from boat trips round the Algar Seco.

The nightlife here is pretty lively, as is the shopping district with lots of stores providing quaint products – perfect for mementos, or as gifts to family and friends.