How To Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: The Ultimate Guide

The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a lovely coastal hike situated within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is without doubt one of the prime issues to do within the Algarve, with lovely seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the hanging Atlantic coast. Irrespective of the place you might be staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, be certain that to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Path for a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.

Seven Hanging Valleys Path – The Particulars

The Seven Hanging Valleys path runs between the seashores of Praia da Marinha and Praia do Vale de Centianes. You can begin from both finish, however most hikers start at Praia da Marinha, referred to as probably the most lovely 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 beautiful views of Acro Pure, or as our information favored to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seashore. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so be certain that to put on good climbing footwear and carry water.

• Location: Algarve, Portugal
• Size: 5.7 kilometers (a method)
• Problem: Reasonable
• Length: 3-4 hours (a method)
• Beginning Level:Praia da Marinha
• Finish Level: Praia do Vale de Centianes
• Greatest Time to Go to: Spring (March to Could) and Autumn (September to November)

Getting There

By Automotive: From Faro, it’s a few 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking accessible close to the trailhead. Parking fills up shortly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are stuffed with potholes and dust roads, so watch out when you have rented a automotive. We practically bottomed out, making an attempt to get out of the parking zone.

In the event you drive, you’ll have to hike again, so be certain that to issue that into your time.

Public Transport: Buses run from main cities within the Algarve to Carvoeiro. From there, you’ll be able to rent a taxi, Uber, or Tuk Tuk.

From Carvoeiro, you’ll be able to take a taxi to the trailhead or hike straight from the seaside. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it’ll simply add a bit extra time

We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoiero Hotel in Carvoiero, which supplied free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we may hike the complete means again to the resort.

What to Count on on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

In the course of the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you’ll be able to anticipate to see a few of the most lovely landscapes on earth. Just a few years in the past, we hiked the Great Ocean Road in Australia and thought there might be no extra lovely place on earth. Nevertheless, 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 gives an unforgettable expertise for everybody.

In the event you don’t wish to hike the complete 5.7 km, there are parking heaps dotted all through the hike, so you’ll be able to exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even in case you aren’t up for a hike, not less than make it to 1 or two of the lookout factors.

It’s an up-and-down climb (it’s known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, in spite of everything), so you can 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 have mobility points, it’s a drawback, and the bottom is uneven.

From the parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t must 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 Course Ought to You Hike?

Probably the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we recommend beginning right here. Plus, in case you take all day, you’ll be able to finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or buying.

Be sure to begin early within the morning when it’s cooler and fewer crowds.

Issues to See on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

Right here’s a complete information that can assist you profit from your journey.

1. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is the start line for many hikers, and it is without doubt one of the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a quick distance to view Elephant Rock and considered one of Portugal’s most lovely seashores from the path earlier than heading again. In the event you proceed to stroll you’ll find that the crowds skinny out.

Be sure to take the time to hike out to the assorted viewpoints. There’s seaside entry, and you may go right down to calm down on the golden sands, get pleasure from completely 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 varied views of the ocean arches and suggestive shoreline.

3. Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is without doubt one of the star points of interest of the Algarve, and it’s doable to see it from the path by its skylight. Nevertheless, there isn’t any entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t one of the best.

It’s a widespread cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by parking zone, so folks merely stroll out to see it.

In the event you actually wish to see Benagil Cave, we recommend reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The foundations relating to learn how to see it are always altering, and we have covered them here. Nevertheless, no one is allowed to swim or step foot on the seaside contained in the cave, and solely organized excursions can take you. So be certain that to guide with a licensed information.

4. Praia de Benagil

The following cease is Praia de Benagil. It is a excellent spot to take a break, seize some lunch, and benefit from the seaside. You’ll have to stroll down a set of stairs to the seaside and city, however the path is well-marked with yellow and crimson stripes on rocks and signposts. These markers will information you alongside the route. We had no bother discovering our means.

The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. Chances are you’ll be trying down on the views of the water always, however be certain that to lookup each every so often and maintain an eye fixed out for seabirds hovering overhead. Often, you might even see dolphins within the waters under. 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 crimson roof.

This part of the path is comparatively average, with well-marked paths that sometimes grow to be rocky and uneven. Alongside the way in which, hikers can anticipate finding quite a few alternatives to pause and take within the vistas, together with the rock formation at Cabo Caroeir and the well-known Leixão do Ladrão.

6. Vale Centeanes Seashore

Vale Centeanes Seashore is the path’s endpoint and a very good place to calm down, lease an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This lovely seaside has a big sea cave, golden sand, and welcoming clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seaside, which gives a number of small caves and grottos to discover.

There’s a snack bar, and excursions will be booked right here. Regardless of its pure magnificence and facilities, Vale Centeanes Seashore is commonly much less crowded than a few of the extra well-known Algarve seashores. Most individuals don’t make it this far on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, so it’s a great place to calm down earlier than transferring on or calling a taxi.

7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seashore

In case you are staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll to the resort from the seaside. You possibly can really stroll all the way in which to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.

Vale Covo Seashore is a rare cease with a large sea cave to view. There are stairs right down to the seaside which is barely accessible at low tide.

Even if you’re not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll in direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by 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. That is identified for views by its rock home windows. Probably 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 benefit from the picturesque vistas.

9. Boardwalks

The path can proceed all alongside the coast, however this can be a good level to only benefit from the boardwalks and views till you get to the city of Carvoeiro. The boardwalk is accessible and a lovely strategy to benefit from the coastal views as you make your strategy to the ultimate vacation spot.

10. Carvoeiro

The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended just a few stops in the past, however it’s value climbing on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, comparable to sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seaside, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.

It’s also simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Mountain climbing a method fairly than out and again permits you to see far more of the Carvoeiro Coastal Stroll that continues after the Seven Hanging Valleys Path. Plus, Carvoeiro has a seaside the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a dip within the sea earlier than heading again to your resort.

Suggestions for Mountain climbing the Seven Hanging Valleys Path

Put on Correct Footwear: The path is rocky and uneven in locations. Sturdy climbing boots or footwear with good grip are important.

Keep Hydrated: There aren’t any services alongside the path, so carry loads of water and a few snacks.

Solar Safety: The Algarve solar will be intense. Put on sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.

Verify the Climate: Keep away from climbing throughout excessive warmth or inclement climate. Keep away from the path throughout excessive winds or rain, as it may be harmful Early mornings or late afternoons are ideally suited.

Respect Nature: Stick with marked paths to guard the delicate coastal atmosphere and keep away from disturbing wildlife.

Security First: Some elements of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and maintain a secure distance from the sting. Keep away from venturing too near the cliff edges, as they are often unstable. We noticed lots of people standing dangerously near the sting.

Lodging

The place to Keep: The close by cities of Carvoeiro and Lagoa provide loads of lodging choices, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoeiro, which is in a tremendous location. Learn extra about the place to remain within the Algarve at our put up: Where to Stay in Algarve: 5 Best Areas To Stay

The Seven Hanging Valleys Path 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 or not you’re an skilled hiker or simply on the lookout for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.

So pack your digicam, lace up your climbing boots, and prepare to discover considered one of Portugal’s most lovely coastal trails!