The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a phenomenal 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 putting Atlantic coast. No matter the place you’re staying in the Algarve area of Portugal, make sure that 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, referred to 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 beautiful views of Acro Natural, or as our information preferred to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Beach. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so make sure that to put on good mountaineering footwear 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 couple of 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking obtainable close to the trailhead. Parking fills up rapidly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are stuffed with potholes and filth roads, so watch out in case you have rented a automobile. We practically bottomed out, making an attempt to get out of the car parking zone.
If you drive, you’ll have to hike again, so make sure that to issue that into your time.
Public Transport: Buses run from main cities in 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 instantly from the seaside. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it’ll simply add a bit extra time
We stayed at the Tivoli Carvoiero Hotel in Carvoiero, which supplied 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’ll be able to count on to see a few of the most stunning landscapes on earth. A number 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 identical 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 presents an unforgettable expertise for everybody.
If you don’t need to hike the total 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 if you happen to aren’t up for a hike, no less than make it to 1 or two of the lookout factors.
It is an up-and-down climb (it’s known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, in spite of everything), so you’ll be mountaineering as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountaineering down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly troublesome, however in case you have mobility points, it’s a downside, and the floor is uneven.
From the car parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t must climb as much as begin the journey. If you need to go to the seaside, there may be one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply bear 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 advise beginning right here. Plus, if you happen to take all day, you’ll be able to finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or purchasing.
Make positive to start out 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 place to begin for many hikers, and it’s certainly one of the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a brief 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 will discover that the crowds skinny out.
Make positive to take the time to hike out to the numerous viewpoints. There is seaside entry, and you’ll go all the way 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 putting 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 via its skylight. However, there isn’t a 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 individuals merely stroll out to see it.
If you actually need to see Benagil Cave, we advise reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The guidelines relating to see it are continually altering, and we’ve got lined them right here. However, no one is allowed to swim or step foot on the seaside inside the cave, and solely organized excursions can take you. So make sure that to e book 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 must stroll down a set of stairs to the seaside and city, however the path is well-marked with yellow and pink 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 trying down at the views of the water continually, however make sure that to lookup each now and again and hold a watch out for seabirds hovering overhead. Occasionally, you may even see dolphins in the waters under. We noticed them on our boat tour only a brief 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 putting sight with its basic white tower and pink roof.
This part of the path is comparatively average, with well-marked paths that often grow to be rocky and uneven. Along the means, hikers can look forward to finding quite a few alternatives to pause and soak up 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, lease an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This stunning seaside has a big sea cave, golden sand, and welcoming clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seaside, which presents 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 usually 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 Trail, so it’s a superb place to loosen up earlier than transferring on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Beach
If you’re staying at the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll to the lodge from the seaside. You can really stroll all the method 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 all the way down to the seaside which is barely accessible at low tide.
Even in case you are not staying at the Tivoli Carvoiero, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll in the direction of city. We noticed lots of people going via 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 understood for views via 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 beautiful views of the ocean. A brief walkway and steps lead guests into the cave, the place they will get pleasure from the picturesque vistas.
9. Boardwalks
The path can proceed all alongside the coast, however it is 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 phenomenal method to get pleasure from the coastal views as you make your method to the closing vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail ended just a few stops in the past, however it’s value mountaineering on to Carvoeiro. There are loads of eating choices, reminiscent of sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seaside, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.
It can be simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Hiking a technique somewhat than out and again permits you to see rather more of the Carvoeiro Coastal Walk that continues after the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. Plus, Carvoeiro has a seaside the place you’ll be able to 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 mountaineering boots or footwear with good grip are important.
Stay Hydrated: There are not any services alongside the path, so convey 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 mountaineering 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 ideally suited.
Respect Nature: Stick to marked paths to guard the fragile coastal atmosphere and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Safety First: Some components of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and hold 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 provide loads of lodging choices, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. We stayed at the Tivoli Carvoeiro, which is in a tremendous location. Read extra about the place to remain in the Algarve at our put up: 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 beautiful ocean views, this path showcases the pure great thing about Portugal’s southern coast. Whether you’re an skilled hiker or simply searching for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail guarantees an unforgettable expertise.
So pack your digital camera, lace up your mountaineering boots, and prepare to discover certainly one of Portugal’s most stunning coastal trails!