In this new series, Inside Carvoeiro unveils some local favourites and hidden gems that cannot be missed in the area
– April 11, 2023
Even having being granted the privilege of living in this local area for nearly 30 years, I still am constantly surprised by the amount of people who cross my path with suggestions of things to do locally that I am yet to try.
Tourists are blessed yet overwhelmed with an array of things to experience and so many places to eat, whereas locals are mostly limited to one or two days a week where they equally search for something unique to help take their minds off a busy week.
Ferragudo, Algarve
Mostly, a “Me Day” falls on a Sunday and each week I am keen to seek out different experiences which I am now intente on sharing with you.
I decide to kick-start my first Sunday with brunch at the Tivoli Carvoeiro. This is served every Sunday from 12pm till 3pm and is accompanied by live music.
Personally, I opt for a terrace table so that I can take in the full extent of what can only be described as a truly astonishing view of the Atlantic Ocean. Food options range from a Tuna and Avocado Poke Bowl to Roast Beef with gravy and Yorkshire Pudding. Eggs Benedict and a Mimosa are my particular choices on this occasion. The eggs are cooked to perfection and the setting and general ambience is truly outstanding.
Praia dos Caneiros
After what feels like a long winter, the weather is now warming up so I am keen to seek plenty of fresh air and Vitamin D. Inspired by the feeling of tranquillity from this stunning Tivoli view, I set off to Praia dos Caneiros. From there I do one of my favourite cliff-top walks.
Heading East over and above the beach, this trail extends all the way to Carvoeiro, with a constant scenic vista and a round trip of about 12km.
Sen Tonkin, Vietnamese pancake with shrimps, onion and beansprout
For dinner, in search of something a little out of the ordinary, I choose Sen Tonkin – a local Vietnamese restaurant in Ferragudo. I am not disappointed to find an extensive menu including crispy Vietnamese Pancakes with prawns, onion and beansprouts, served on a bed of crunchy lettuce, coriander and mint, accompanied with a fish sauce.
Sen Tonkin, Crispy Beef with mixed vegetables in sweet and sour sauce with egg fried rice and stir-fried seasonal vegetables with garlic
This was a truly delicious combination which I then followed with Crispy Beef with Mixed Vegetables in Sweet and Sour Sauce with side dishes of egg fried rice and stir-fried seasonal vegetables. Both dishes are so super fresh. For those of you keen to try something different, Sen Tonkin does not disappoint!
Carvoeiro has much to do and see, and plenty of delicious treats to enjoy as well, so watch this space for more tips to enjoy everything the area has to offer.
