The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a lovely coastal hike positioned in the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is certainly one of the prime issues to do in the Algarve, with stunning seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the hanging Atlantic coast. No matter the place you might be staying in the Algarve area of Portugal, be certain to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail for a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – The Details
The Seven Hanging Valleys path runs between the seashores of Vale Centeanes and Praia da Marinha. You can begin from both finish, however most hikers start at Praia da Marinha, generally known as certainly one of the most stunning seashores in Europe.
Hugging the Atlantic Ocean with excessive viewpoints, seaside entry, and even locations to get pleasure from meals and wine, the journey begins with attractive views of Acro Natural, or as our information appreciated to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Beach. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so be certain to put on good climbing sneakers and carry water.
Location: Algarve, Portugal
Length: 5.7 kilometers (a technique)
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 hours (a technique)
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Getting There
By Car: From Faro, it’s a few 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking obtainable close to the trailhead. Parking fills up shortly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking tons are filled with potholes and grime roads, so watch out when you’ve got rented a automotive. We almost bottomed out, attempting to get out of the car parking zone.
If you drive, you’ll have to hike again, so be certain to issue that into your time.
Public Transport: Buses run from main cities in the Algarve to Carvoeiro. From there, you possibly can rent a taxi, Uber, or Tuk Tuk.
From Carvoeiro, you possibly can take a taxi to the trailhead or hike straight from the seaside. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it should simply add a bit extra time
We stayed at the Tivoli Carvoiero Hotel in Carvoiero, which provided free shuttles to the begin of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, and we might hike the total means again to the lodge.
What to Expect on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
During the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you possibly can count on to see a few of the most stunning landscapes on earth. A couple of years in the past, we hiked the Great Ocean Road in Australia and thought there might be no extra stunning place on earth. However, the Seven Hanging Valleys has an analogous panorama, compacted into one small space, making it one extraordinary view after one other. You’ll see excessive sea cliffs, hidden caves, and panoramic ocean views; this path affords an unforgettable expertise for everybody.
If you don’t wish to hike the total 5.7 km, there are parking tons dotted all through the hike, so you possibly can exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even in case you aren’t up for a hike, at the very least make it to at least one or two of the lookout factors.
It is an up-and-down climb (it’s referred to as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, in spite of everything), so you’ll be climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which climbing down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly troublesome, however when you’ve got mobility points, it’s a drawback, and the floor is uneven.
From the car parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t need to climb as much as begin the journey. If you wish to go to the seaside, there’s one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply keep in mind, you’ll have to come again up.
Which Direction Should You Hike?
The most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail begins at Praia da Marina, so we propose beginning right here. Plus, in case you take all day, you possibly can finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or procuring.
Make positive to begin early in the morning when it’s cooler and fewer crowds.
Things to See on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Here’s a complete information that will help you make the most of your journey.
1. Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is the start line for many hikers, and it’s certainly one of the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a quick distance to view Elephant Rock and certainly one of Portugal’s most stunning seashores from the path earlier than heading again. If you proceed to stroll you can find that the crowds skinny out.
Make positive to take the time to hike out to the numerous viewpoints. There is seaside entry, and you may go right down to loosen up on the golden sands, get pleasure from totally different views of the seaside’s iconic double arch, and discover sea caves.
2. Clifftop Views
As you ascend from Praia da Marinha, you’ll be greeted with extra hanging views of the Atlantic Ocean. Trails lead out to a excessive plateau, providing numerous views of the sea arches and suggestive shoreline.
3. Benagil Cave
Benagil Cave is certainly one of the star sights of the Algarve, and it’s attainable to see it from the path by means of its skylight. However, there isn’t any entry to the inside, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t the finest.
It is a well-liked cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, and there’s a close by car parking zone, so folks merely stroll out to see it.
If you actually wish to see Benagil Cave, we propose reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The guidelines relating to the right way to see it are continuously altering, and we’ve lined them right here. However, no person is allowed to swim or step foot on the seaside inside the cave, and solely organized excursions can take you. So be certain to ebook with a licensed information.
4. Praia de Benagil
The subsequent cease is Praia de Benagil. This is a superb place to take a break, seize some lunch, and luxuriate in the seaside. You should stroll down a set of stairs to the seaside and city, however the path is well-marked with yellow and purple stripes on rocks and signposts. These markers will information you alongside the route. We had no hassle discovering our means.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. You could also be wanting down at the views of the water continuously, however be certain to lookup each infrequently and preserve a watch out for seabirds hovering overhead. Occasionally, you may even see dolphins in the waters beneath. We noticed them on our boat tour only a quick distance offshore.
5. Farol de Alfanzina (Alfanzina Lighthouse)
The path from Benagil to Alfanzina Lighthouse winds alongside cliffs which are a bit extra rugged than the remainder of the path. From Benagil, its an uphill climb up a set of stairs. As you method Alfanzina Lighthouse, you’ll encounter lush Mediterranean vegetation and the occasional sighting of seabirds.
The lighthouse itself is perched on a excessive cliff and is a hanging sight with its traditional white tower and purple roof.
This part of the path is comparatively average, with well-marked paths that sometimes grow to be rocky and uneven. Along the means, hikers can anticipate finding quite a few alternatives to pause and absorb the vistas, together with the rock formation at Cabo Caroeir and the well-known Leixão do Ladrão.
6. Vale Centeanes Beach
Vale Centeanes Beach is the path’s endpoint and a very good place to loosen up, hire an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This stunning seaside has a big sea cave, golden sand, and alluring clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seaside, which affords a number of small caves and grottos to discover.
There is a snack bar, and excursions will be booked right here. Despite its pure magnificence and facilities, Vale Centeanes Beach is commonly much less crowded than a few of the extra well-known Algarve seashores. Most folks don’t make it this far on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, so it’s place to loosen up earlier than shifting on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Beach
If you might be staying at the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you possibly can proceed to stroll to the lodge from the seaside. You can really stroll all the option to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
Vale Covo Beach is a rare cease with a large sea cave to view. There are stairs right down to the seaside which is just accessible at low tide.
Even if you’re not staying at the Tivoli Carvoiero, you possibly can proceed to stroll in direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by means of the gates for entry.
8. Algar Seco
After one other up-and-down and back-up hike, you’ll come to the well-known rock formations of Algar Seco. This is thought for views by means of its rock home windows. The most notable is Boneca Cave, which interprets to “Doll’s Cave.” This pure formation has two window-like openings that body gorgeous views of the ocean. A brief walkway and steps lead guests into the cave, the place they’ll get pleasure from the picturesque vistas.
9. Boardwalks
The path can proceed all alongside the coast, however this can be a good level to simply get pleasure from the boardwalks and views till you get to the city of Carvoeiro. The boardwalk is accessible and a lovely option to get pleasure from the coastal views as you make your option to the last vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail ended just a few stops in the past, however it’s price climbing on to Carvoeiro. There are loads of eating choices, akin to sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seaside, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.
It can also be simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Hiking a technique relatively than out and again enables you to see far more of the Carvoeiro Coastal Walk that continues after the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. Plus, Carvoeiro has a seaside the place you possibly can get pleasure from a dip in the sea earlier than heading again to your lodge.
Tips for Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Wear Proper Footwear: The path is rocky and uneven in locations. Sturdy climbing boots or sneakers with good grip are important.
Stay Hydrated: There aren’t any services alongside the path, so deliver loads of water and a few snacks.
Sun Protection: The Algarve solar will be intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.
Check the Weather: Avoid climbing throughout excessive warmth or inclement climate. Avoid the path throughout excessive winds or rain, as it may be harmful Early mornings or late afternoons are supreme.
Respect Nature: Stick to marked paths to guard the fragile coastal surroundings and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Safety First: Some elements of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and preserve a secure distance from the edge. Avoid venturing too near the cliff edges, as they are often unstable. We noticed lots of people standing dangerously near the edge.
Accommodation
Where to Stay: The close by cities of Carvoeiro and Lagoa supply loads of lodging choices, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. We stayed at the Tivoli Carvoeiro, which is in an incredible location. Read extra about the place to remain in the Algarve at our publish: Where to Stay in Algarve: 5 Best Areas To Stay
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a must-do for anybody visiting the Algarve. With its dramatic cliffs, hidden seashores, and gorgeous ocean views, this path showcases the pure fantastic thing about Portugal’s southern coast. Whether you’re an skilled hiker or simply in search of a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail guarantees an unforgettable expertise.
So pack your digital camera, lace up your climbing boots, and prepare to discover certainly one of Portugal’s most stunning coastal trails!