Carvoeiro, on the Algarve, in Portugal lies between Albufeira and Portimao and was once a traditional fishing village where even today it holds its charm.  Carvoeiro's small sandy beach is sheltered by cliffs rising up from the bay and it boasts a spectacular and dramatic coastline.  Carvoeiro's little town centres on its' village square, where you can enjoy locally caught fish and views out to sea.  Whitewashed buildings house souvenir shops and laid back bars welcome you in.  For those on self-catering holidays a busy local produce market is a must to visit.  At the nearby Vale Covo beach you could learn to scuba dive at the PADI diving school where beginner to advanced courses are on offer alongside, equipment rental and all year dives from land and sea.  Carvoeiro is an excellent base for anyone looking for a quieter resort with the benefit of larger resorts a short drive away and attractions such as the Slide and Splash Waterpark just down the road.