Carcavelos is charming little town and is becoming better know because of its surf and the popularity of its lovely, long, safe, sandy beach. But can I encourage you to venture across the railway tracks also, to explore and enjoy the old town? Here are some things to look out for north and south of the railway track.
North of the track
Check out the beautiful and famous tiles in the Church.
Opposite the church, Ceramica Artistica de Carcavelos sells some lovely old tiles as well as ceramics.
Santini’s in the old Market area manufactures and sells the famous and loved ice cream! The seafood and coffee kiosks in the square are also very popular.
The Commercial Centre’s Atlântida Cine shows recent releases 2-3 times a day. They’re usually in English with Portuguese subtitles. There’s still a 10-15 min interval (a cigarette break) during screenings.
South of the track
In addition to sunning yourself on the wonderful beach, try one of the nearby pools at Abla Guest House, the Riveira or the Oceanario
Walk the coastal route from Carcavelos beach to just past Sao Amaro do Oireas. Catch the train back from Sao Amaro if you don’t fancy the return walk. It’s very close to the route.
Or leave the path earlier at the Oireas exit to explore Marques de Pombal’s garden. And the Palace, when open.
Visit the weekly Thursday morning market. It’s moved to the other side of the tracks in old Carcavelos and is colourful, cheap and cheerful.
There are second hand shops, in the square near to the apartment, if you fancy a rummage. They include Trash & Treasures and Vintage.
Eating and drinking
There are lots of nice eateries nearby. Atlantico in Junqueira Sq. is a good if expensive fish restaurant. The Sushi restaurant on the beach is also very good.
The promenade’s cafés and restaurants serve drinks, snacks and food ranging from cheap and cheerful to expensive. These are great places to relax, linger and people watch and to see the surfers and paddlers doing their thing.
Taverna do Rogeiro in Ribelva, north of the train line, is a 30 minute walk (or taxi ride) away but worth it for a more interesting take on Portuguese food.
Kokas, near to the church in Carcavelos, is also recommended if you want to try traditional Portuguese food.
The hard to come by Carcavelos wine can be bought at Cozinha Do Campo. It’s a fortified wine and costs about 9E for a small bottle.