Imagine yourself standing on the edge of rugged limestone cliffs, the sun setting over the horizon casting a golden hue over the sailboats floating gently out to sea. No, it’s not a scene from an idyllic painting; it’s the real view from the Algarve region along the southern coast of Portugal. However, beyond the famed beaches and bustling water parks often crowded with tourists, there exists a more tranquil side – a side that offers a taste of authentic Portuguese culture and landscape.
A drive of just under an hour from Faro airport brings you to Carvoeiro, a charming historic fishing village notable for its captivating scenery. Enclosed by imposing cliffs that have been sculpted by the ocean into intricate formations with rock pools, caves and even fossils dating 24 million years old, Carvoeiro provides a distinct contrast to the more commercialized tourist hot-spots. Its unique vibe emanates from its rich ancient history and is what locals proudly deem as the “authentic Portugal”.
There’s nothing quite like the surreal experience of clinking glasses filled with white wine, admiring the breathtaking cliffs that define the landscape and observing hikers making their way along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – a six-kilometer walk between Praia da Marinha beach and Praia de Vale Centianes beach.
A notable place to base oneself during a visit in the region is the Tivoli Carvoeiro. Carved into and made part of the cliffs, this five-star hotel overlooks the brilliant blue Atlantic Ocean. Having transformed after its renovation in 2016, the hotel’s entrance leads to an eyeful of azure awaiting beyond floor to ceiling white marble interiors and low-domed ceilings, inducing a sense of almost instantaneous tranquility.
The Tivoli Carvoeiro hosts an array of amenities, from an extensive choice of dining spots, an indoor and an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness suite, and even a children’s playground with activities on most days – certainly a plus for parents with toddlers. And if that’s not all, it’s even pet-friendly, allowing guests to ensure that their faithful companions don’t get left behind.
The rooms define comfort, with spacious balconies overlooking the hotel pool and the adjoining Vale Covo cliffside. The decor harmonizes with the natural surroundings, embodying an airy feel through the use of white and blue accents. Guests can look forward to an array of meals, ranging from a five-course tasting menu to delectable seafood offerings, predominantly featuring locally sourced produce.
The beauty and lure of Carvoeiro extends beyond the walls of the Tivoli. A walk of about 15 minutes along the clifftop boardwalk takes you to the heart of Carvoeiro village and its scenic beach. Beyond the typical tourist trinkets, you’ll find traditional Portuguese supermarkets and pottery studios epitomizing traditional styles and patterns unique to the region.
In addition to exploration, time can also be dedicated to self-care within the plushly renovated spa complex at the Tivoli. The atmosphere in the spa mirrors the rest of the hotel and its surroundings -quiet, peaceful and hued white, offering the ideal space for relaxation following a massage or other treatments provided.
If Japanese cuisine tickles your taste buds, a visit to the hotel’s rooftop Sky Bar is a must. Here, patrons enjoy a comprehensive sushi menu, while the soothing sights and sounds of the sea below and the setting sun provide the perfect backdrop.
In conclusion, a visit to the Algarve region is much more than nuzzling your feet in soft sands, taking a refreshing dip in the shimmering waters, and marveling at cascading cliffs. There’s an abundance of authentic Portuguese culture, historical narratives, tantalizing cuisine, and incredibly beautiful natural landscapes waiting to be discovered. And where better than the Tivoli Carvoeiro to epitomize this ultimate Algarve experience. Whether it’s the sea-view accommodations or the array of amenities that tickle your fancy, a stay in this resort guarantees unforgettable memories.
