Discover Carvoeiro
With natural beauty and authentic charm, the traditional fishing village of Carvoeiro has blossomed into one of the most desirable holiday destinations not just in Portugal, but all of Europe.
Charming coves, breathtaking beaches, stunning rock formations of rugged cliffs and magnificent sea-caves define the western Algarve coastline. Boasting mild climate all-year round, and multiple award-winning beaches, Carvoeiro offers the perfect base to enjoy everything our region has to offer – from dolphin watching trips to boat tours to the Benagil Cave and accoladed Praia da Marinha.
Please find some of our favourite local suggestions below, or visit our experiences page to see bookable local experiences – at any time we are here to assist you.
Famous Sea Caves
The striking coast of the Western Algarve is defined by impressive rock formations and sea-caves. Benagil Cave is perhaps the most famous along. It has rightly been awarded many accolades, such as being one of the “50 most beautiful places in the world” by Conde Nast Traveler and the 15th “Most beautiful cave in the world” by the Michelin Guide.
By staying at O Castelo Guest House you are in a prime position to visit the cave, with boats departing from Praia do Carvoeiro, but also explore many of the other caves along the coast, thanks to the various tours we can offer you.
Marinha Beach
One of the most striking and picturesque beaches in the country, Praia da Marinha is located at the end of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
Named by Michelin Guide as one of the ’10 most beautiful beaches in Europe’ and awarded a spot in the top ’20 most beautiful in the world’ by CNN, it’s golden sands and rugged rock formations make it a must-visit whilst visiting Carvoeiro.
Paraíso Beach
Moments from O Castelo Guest House is Paraiso Beach, a breathtaking cove that is as photogenic as it is relaxing. A white-washed staircase winds its way down to the small cove, which is best enjoyed during low tide.
BOARDWALK & ALGAR SECO
One of the most striking attractions in Carvoeiro is the Algar Seco rock formations, where rock-pools, rugged formations, and windows out onto the ocean can be found. In recent years, the 570 metre spectacular boardwalk has been created, offering a wooden walking platform across the cliff, connecting Algar Seco to the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, on the cliff opposite O Castelo Guest House.
Walking Trails
While there are countless hiking trails in and around Carvoeiro, the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is perhaps one of the most renowned in the whole of the Algarve, even elected as the “best walk in Europe” by European Best Destinations in 2019.
Starting from Centeanes Beach, which is around a twenty-minutes walk along the cliff from O Castelo Guest House, the trail snakes along the cliffs offering breath-taking views at every corner. The 5.7 km trail that extends to the magnificent Praia da Marinha.
Another fantastic local hike is the recently certified Caminho dos Promontórios, which follows the coastline and extends for 6 km, between Molhe beach and Paraíso beach, right next to the guest house.
For both routes we have maps, which will assist you in enjoying these unforgettable hikes.
World renowned Golf Courses
The Algarve has become world famous for its golf offering, and many great courses are concentrated around Carvoeiro and Lagoa. Form 9 to 18-holes, driving ranges, and professional training academies, there are plenty of ways to combine golf with your Algarve Holiday.
Quintas & Vineyards
Gastronomy and Vinification are two of our greatest joys in the Algarve, and with a few different Vineyards in our immediate vicinity, it’s possible to include a tour or tasting at a vineyard, or meal in their grounds, during your stay,
Nearby Ferragudo
The charming and classic fishing village of Ferragudo provides a great option for an outing from O Castelo Guest House. Accessible by a ten minute drive, or a walking trail along the cliff in under two-hours, Ferragudo is packed with waterfront sea-food restaurants. A ferry services runs from here to Praia da Rocha in Portimao.
Nearby Silves
The medieval destination of Silves is around a twenty minute drive from Carvoeiro, but well worth a visit. With the walled castle dominating the town, sitting high above, you can actual enter and walk around the historic displays and artefacts to be found here.
The river offers small boat tours to and from Ferragudo in seasonal months, and the compact and quaint streets and market offer an insight into a more historic side of the historic Kingdom of the Algarve.
