The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a fantastic coastal hike situated within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is likely one of the high issues to do within the Algarve, with lovely seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the hanging Atlantic coast. Regardless of the place you might be staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, make sure 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 Vale Centeanes and Praia da Marinha. You can begin from both finish, however most hikers start at Praia da Marinha, often known as one of the vital lovely seashores in Europe.
Hugging the Atlantic Ocean with excessive viewpoints, seaside entry, and even locations to take pleasure in meals and wine, the journey begins with beautiful views of Acro Pure, or as our information appreciated to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seaside. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so make sure that to put on good mountain climbing footwear and carry water.
- Location: Algarve, Portugal
- Size: 5.7 kilometers (a method)
- Problem: Average
- Length: 3-4 hours (a method)
- Greatest Time to Go to: Spring (March to Could) and Autumn (September to November)
Getting There
By Automotive: From Faro, it’s a couple of 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking out there close to the trailhead. Parking fills up shortly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are stuffed with potholes and grime roads, so watch out if in case you have rented a automotive. We practically bottomed out, attempting to get out of the parking zone.
Should 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 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 instantly from the seaside. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it’ll simply add a bit extra time
We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoiero Lodge in Carvoiero, which provided free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we may hike your entire approach again to the resort.
What to Anticipate on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Through the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you’ll be able to count on to see a number of the most lovely landscapes on earth. Just a few years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Street in Australia and thought there might be no extra lovely place on earth. Nonetheless, the Seven Hanging Valleys has the same 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.
Should you don’t need to hike your entire 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, at the very least 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 mountain climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountain climbing down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly troublesome, however if in case you have mobility points, it’s a downside, and the bottom is uneven.
From the parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t should climb as much as begin the journey. If you wish to go to the seaside, there may be one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply keep in mind, you’ll have to come again up.
Which Path Ought to You Hike?
Probably the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we propose beginning right here. Plus, if you happen to take all day, you’ll be able to finish in Carvoiero to take pleasure in dinner, drinks or procuring.
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 benefit from your journey.
1. Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is the start line for many hikers, and it is likely one of the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a quick distance to view Elephant Rock and one in all Portugal’s most lovely seashores from the path earlier than heading again. Should you proceed to stroll you will see that that the crowds skinny out.
Be sure to take the time to hike out to the varied viewpoints. There may be seaside entry, and you’ll go all the way down to loosen up on the golden sands, take pleasure in 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 ocean arches and suggestive shoreline.
3. Benagil Cave
Benagil Cave is likely one of the star sights of the Algarve, and it’s potential to see it from the path by its skylight. Nonetheless, there is no such thing as a entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t one of the best.
It’s a fashionable cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by parking zone, so folks merely stroll out to see it.
Should you actually need to see Benagil Cave, we propose reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The foundations concerning see it are continuously altering, and we have now coated them right here. Nonetheless, no person is allowed to swim or step foot on the seaside contained in 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 can be a excellent place 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 approach.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. You could be trying down on the views of the water continuously, however make sure that to lookup each on occasion and hold an eye fixed out for seabirds hovering overhead. Often, you may 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 can be 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 basic white tower and crimson roof.
This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, with well-marked paths that sometimes turn out to be rocky and uneven. Alongside the way in which, hikers can look forward to 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 Seaside
Vale Centeanes Seaside is the path’s endpoint and a very good place to loosen up, lease an umbrella, or take pleasure in a beer. This lovely 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’s a snack bar, and excursions could be booked right here. Regardless of its pure magnificence and facilities, Vale Centeanes Seaside is commonly much less crowded than a number of the extra well-known Algarve seashores. Most individuals don’t make it this far on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, so it’s place to loosen up earlier than transferring on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seaside
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’ll be able to truly stroll all the way in which to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.
Vale Covo Seaside 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 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 recognized 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 beautiful 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 fantastic technique to benefit from the coastal views as you make your technique to the ultimate vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended just a few stops in the past, however it’s value mountain climbing on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, comparable to sitting on a patio to take pleasure in views of the seaside, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.
It is usually simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Mountain climbing a method moderately than out and again allows you to see way 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 take pleasure in 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 mountain climbing boots or footwear with good grip are important.
Keep Hydrated: There are not any services alongside the path, so carry loads of water and a few snacks.
Solar Safety: The Algarve solar could be intense. Put on sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.
Test the Climate: Keep away from mountain 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 best.
Respect Nature: Follow marked paths to guard the delicate coastal setting and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some elements of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and hold a protected 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 supply 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: The place to Keep in Algarve: 5 Greatest Areas To Keep
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path 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 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 digital camera, lace up your mountain climbing boots, and prepare to discover one in all Portugal’s most lovely coastal trails!
