I don’t know about you, but when I travel with my kids I need to know that there is going to be plenty for them to do. After all, it is my holiday too so I like to imagine that I will get a bit of an opportunity to relax. That is why Carvoeiro in the Algarve in Portugal is one of my favourite family-friendly holiday destinations.
There are several parks in and around Carvoeiro that have everything you need on site to keep the kids entertained while you snatch a few moments relaxation. Here are my top four.
Krazy World
My little ones go bonkers when they hear we are going to have a day at this great little spot. The variety of things to do is huge and range from mini golf to a petting zoo and from pony rides to a crocodile park. I personally love the surroundings that are impressive and very well landscaped.
Top Tip: Get the braver ones in your tribe to have their photo taken with a cobra!
Slide and Splash
The clue is in the name when it comes to this park, which is regarded as one of the best water parks in the country. Catering for all ages, the slides and rides offer a whirlwind of fun for kids older and younger. It is not only about the rides though, as there’s lots more going on including some unusual animal shows.
While the kids play you can enjoy the sun loungers and, with lots of eating options you can easily spend a day here.
Top Tip: If your kids go crazy for this place, book a second day here for only €10!
Aqualand
A veritable haven for water babes, this iconic water paradise has something for everyone. You might plan to go, relax and watch the kids have fun but I bet you are joining in with the best of them before you know it. With waterslides galore to choose from, this water park has everything from adrenaline-fuelled rides to the more relaxed Kidzworld and Chill Out and Play area.
Zoomarine
This is last in my list but is actually one of my favourites. There are not many places in Europe where you can get up close and personal to the gorgeous dolphin, but here you can watch your kids interact on a personal level with these incredible mammals.
The philosophy of this place is based on conservation and educating visitors about the marine environment. All of the attractions and presentations are based on this philosophy.
There really is no better place to take your family than Carvoeiro if you are looking for minimal effort when it comes to entertaining the kids. Not only are the beaches beautiful but the water parks are a sure-fire way to keep all the little ones happy!
Where to Stay
Carvoeiro Beach and Pool – A short hop to the beach, this functional, clean and well-appointed apartment is a prime accommodation option. The swimming pool keeps the kids busy on days when you want to relax and not go too far, and the free Wi-Fi is another welcome distraction for the youngsters when they just need some down time.
Apartments are an excellent choice for groups; more space in which to spread out, an equipped kitchen and a washing machine make them very family friendly. I personally enjoy the terrace that is available for guests to use – when the kids get to bed, you can enjoy an al fresco evening drink or two.
Casa da Ana – This spacious apartment is bright and airy with the advantage of being only a short stroll from the beach. It is great value when travelling with a family and the fully-fitted kitchen makes self-catering a welcome option.
Owned by a very friendly host, the apartment is in a quiet area but conveniently close to all of the amenities. The pool is a real bonus when, on the odd day, you just fancy staying put.
How to Get There
Getting to Carvoeiro is easy when travelling form the UK. Faro Airport (FAO) is the closest one to the resort and there are several weekly flights offered by various airlines. Prices are competitive, so family holidays needn’t break the bank.
When holidaying with your youngsters, the travel day can be stressful, and this why I recommend booking a transfer with Shuttle Direct from Faro Airport to Carvoeiro. This company is reliable and very professional, offering private door-to-door transfers. Getting to the resort takes only an hour but no doubt the kids will be restless to get their holiday started so a pre-booked transfer is definitely the way to go.
Overview
- UK to FAO Flight Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- FAO to Carvoeiro: 58 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 1 hour
About Shuttle Direct
Our team here at Shuttle Direct is proud of the service we offer. We take great pride in our professional, reliable and friendly drivers, who transfer clients from airports all over Europe and North Africa to their final destination. Catering for families, we provide children’s car seats too, so pre-book before you leave on holiday and look forward to stress-free onward travel.
