I am coming out on Saturday and staying in a villa at Vale da Lapa. Is this walking distance from the centre of Carvoeiro on the basis I have two young children. If not is there any public transport into Carvoeiro.

Thanks.

Heavens no, that is not a walk you want to be doing in these temperatures

Vale da Lapa is a good 3 kms walk into town and it is not exactly a flat walk either. Car hire is definatly advisable - public transport is about as reliable as an italian sportscar.