While walking by the sea, enjoying the natural beauty and achitectonic patrimony — an ancient fortress and the Shrine of Nossa Senhora da Conceição — that remained in this location, is a greatly recommended for all those of you who like to relax and to contemplate the beauty of nature’s work.

This picturesque fishing village with very nice beaches surrounded by protecting cliffs, has a long history of settlement and has grown over the last decades into the main tourist area of the parish.

According to historical sources, Carvoeiro derives from “Caboiere,” an ancient name for a hamlet of fishermen from the Islamic-medieval period. For most of its history, Carvoeiro depended mostly on fishing as the mainstay of the local economy. However, from the 1960′s onward, gradually became a hotspot for tourism which is now the economic base of the area, with many new hotels, apartments, shops and new roads contributing to a significant improvement in the infrastructure.

Alvor has its origins as a typical and small fishing village, nonetheless it has grown over the years to include enough amenities and resources to satisfy the tourists who visit the village. Not a bustling resort by any means, Alvor is a place to relax by the sea, or walk the cobbled streets to the harbour where you can dine at the local restaurants or cafes. The beaches here include both long stretches of sand and secluded coves for those wanting privacy.

Once an ancient coastal village, Alvor is now a very popular holiday location. The enclosed narrow streets have kept development to a minimum and many of these streets now are a true show off with bars boasting live music and different types of restaurants. However leading off from these, there are still memories of the older fishing village.
In the area there are a number of quality holiday resorts from which tourists in holidays enjoy its attractions. The village is in a privileged location, facing a natural lagoon and opening to the sea. There is a choice of a long open white sandy beach and a number of small coves tucked under the rocky cliffs.

On December 3rd 1989, a flood caused by a full day of heavy rain destroyed the bridge partially, after that the bridge was restored and restricted to people only. It is still possible to see how the old Roman bridge looked before in some amazing photos.

During the Spring and even Winter it’s possible to see otters swimming in the Gilão river although they usually only appear at very late hours when the city activity is reduced to the minimum.

Nowadays near the birdge you will be able to assist to street theater performers, small music concerts and talent exhibition.

If you’d like to know a bit more about this beautiful city don’t miss the Tavira Guide website.