This one-time fishing village in Portugal’s western Algarve has a history dating back centuries. Here you’ve got a compact town centre made up of two main roads leading to the square. There are pretty white buildings set into the cliff, along with a lighthouse and the remains of a 17th-century fort. And just along the coast is Algar Seco, a spectacular landscape formed by cliff erosions.

Carvoeiro provides a choice of beaches – you’ve even got one in the middle of town, just off the square. There are loungers and umbrellas to rent, plus a choice of bars and restaurants by the entrance. And from here, the next beach along is Praia do Paraiso, a sandy bay sheltered by dramatic cliffs. The restaurant above the sands offers up some fantastic views from its terrace.

Carvoeiro is a tranquil part of the Algarve that stems from humble beginnings as a small fishing village. It has a pretty, 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 holidays.

Carvoeiro Beach is very pretty, but extraordinarily clean and beautiful, with neighbouring beaches within easy walking distance.

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.